The matrix plays a key role in determining the performance of a high-gradient magnetic separator; it provides the carrier for the magnetic particles to be captured and transported to the nonmagnetic field as magnetic product. High-gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) of ultrafine hematite with the finest 1 mm rod matrix has been investigated on a pilot pulsating HGMS separator. The results of this investigation indicate that this matrix achieves a significantly improved performance for the ultrafine hematites, compared to the coarser 2 mm one which is now widely applied in industry, due to its stronger magnetic capture to ultrafine particles. It was concluded that the 1 mm matrix has a powerful manipulation over ultrafine particles in a pulsating HGMS process, and is capable of achieving a higher separation performance at a considerably lower energizing cost.