Hematite

Hematite is a deep blood-red iron oxide pigment powder. This grade is synthetic: red iron oxide (PR101), the same compound as the mineral hematite, α-Fe₂O₃, made industrially for purity and covering power. It is opaque, lightfast and lime-proof, for oil, acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor, gouache, fresco and plaster.

Key facts

• Color: deep blood red (maroon)
• Pigment type: Synthetic inorganic pigment (iron oxide)
• Colour Index: PR101 (C.I. 77491)
• Composition: iron(III) oxide, α-Fe₂O₃ (hematite structure)
• Origin: synthetic
• Also known as: Mars red, red iron oxide
• Opacity: opaque
• Lightfastness: 8 of 8 on the Blue Wool Scale (supplier data)
• Chemical resistance: alkali 5/5, lime 5/5 (supplier data, 5 = best); stable in weak acids, dissolved by strong mineral acids
• Suitable for: oil, acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor, gouache, fresco (lime), lime and cement plaster, ceramics
• Packaging: 50 g jar · 1 kg bag

How to use

Mix the powder into linseed oil, egg yolk, gum arabic or acrylic medium with a palette knife or muller; for fresco, grind it in water and paint into fresh lime plaster. It has high hiding power, so a small amount covers and tints well, and like other iron oxides it dries well in oil. With white it gives cool pinks; with blue or black, deep maroons and browns.

About hematite

The mineral hematite takes its name from the Greek word for blood: its powder is red even when the crystals are steel gray. Ground hematite is one of the oldest pigments, used at Pinnacle Point in South Africa about 164,000 years ago. Synthetic red iron oxide, sold as Mars red since the 18th century, has the same crystal structure but contains no clay or quartz.

Safety

Handle dry pigment with care: avoid breathing the dust and contact with eyes. Wear a dust mask (FFP2/N95) and gloves when working with the powder, work in a well-ventilated area and wipe up spills with a damp cloth. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working; wash your hands afterwards. Keep away from children and pets. For artistic and technical use only — not for cosmetics, food or tattoos.

FAQ

Is this hematite natural?

No. It is synthetic red iron oxide with the crystal structure of hematite. For the natural mineral, choose Hematite cherry or Hematite cold.

How is it different from Venetian red?

Both are synthetic red iron oxide, PR101. Hematite is a deeper blood red; Venetian red is a warmer brick red.

Is it toxic?

No specific hazard is known: iron oxides are considered non-toxic. Like any fine powder, the dust can irritate the eyes and airways, so follow the precautions above.