Red ore is a term used to describe HEMATITE, an iron oxide mineral composed of ferric oxide. It is the most important ore of iron and has been used since ancient times as a pigment and for jewelry. HEMATITE has a red-brown color and is found in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. It is also known as 'BLOODSTONE' due to its red color. HEMATITE is a major source of iron ore and is mined in many countries around the world.