Hematite (Fe₂O₃) is one of the most important iron ores, containing up to 70% iron by weight. It's a reddish-brown to black mineral that has been used as a source of iron since ancient times. The name comes from the Greek word for blood, referring to the red color of its powdered form. Zinc, silver, and aluminum have their own distinct ores like sphalerite, argentite, and bauxite respectively.