Oolitic Hematite is a sedimentary formation that has a reddish brown color and an earthy luster and is composed of small rounded grains. Specularite is a micaceous or flaky stone that is sparkling silver gray and sometimes used as an ornamental stone. Hematite gets its name from a greek word meaning blood-like because of the color of its powder. Ancient superstition held that large deposits of hematite formed from battles that were fought and the subsequent blood that flowed into the ground. Crystals of Hematite are considered rare and are sought after by collectors as are fine Kidney Ore specimens.
Color is steel or silver gray to black in some forms and red to brown in earthy forms.
Luster is metallic or dull in earthy and oolitic forms. Crystals are opaque. Cleavage is absent however there is a parting on two planes. Fracture is uneven. Streak is blood red to brownish red for earthy forms.