Hematite is an iron oxide (Fe2O3) and the main ore of iron, found in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks around the world. It is steel-grey to black with a distinctive red streak, and its weighty, metallic feel makes it popular as tumbled stones, beads and cabochons. Below: its physical properties, history and lore.
The Physical Properties of Hematite
Hematite is found in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks all around the world. It's the most important ore of iron.
The color of hematite varies from black to steel-gray to silver, and from red to reddish brown to black. It scores 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, with metallic, submetallic or earthy luster and opaque diaphaneity. Hematite is not magnetic per se, although specimens often contain magnetite which makes it hard to identify correctly. The defining characteristic of hematite that makes identification easier is its red streak. If it's there, and the specimen still has magnetic properties, it's likely a combination of magnetite and hematite.
Hematite is quite popular as a tumbled stone thanks to its weighty feel. It can also be cut en cabochons or used to make beads.
The History of Hematite
The word hematite comes from the Greek word haimatitis, meaning blood-red. Since the dawn of human civilization, hematite has been used as a pigment, crushed and mixed with liquid. Cave paintings were created over 40 thousand years ago from pigments made from hematite.
It's a common mineral. Leading producers of iron ore in the world are China, Australia, Brazil, India, Russia, Ukraine, South Africa and the United States. NASA has confirmed the presence of hematite even on Mars ” that's what is giving Mars the red color that got it named the red planet.
The Lore of Hematite
The high iron content and pigmentation ensured the widespread use of hematite. Before they started mining ore, humans mostly used the pigment form of hematite. Believed that Native Americans used it for their war paint, while Egyptians decorated their tombs with it. Warriors in northern England are said to have carried hematite crystals as talismans for protection.
The Metaphysical Properties of Hematite
Hematite is called a stone for the mind in crystal practice, associated with concentration, focus and memory. It is said to stand for original thought and a balance between the mind, spirit and body. Hematite is also a symbol of willpower, confidence and reliability, which is why people keep it close when they are working on a new habit.
Its iron content and blood-red streak connect hematite with strength and vitality in folklore, and the name itself comes from the Greek for blood-red. In crystal traditions it is a stone of courage and endurance.
When it comes to chakras, hematite is linked with the root chakra, a symbol of grounding and stability. Many people keep a piece on their desk or in a pocket as a grounding reminder.
With a beautiful yet straightforward stone such as hematite, you can enjoy the feeling of being centered and one with the earth.
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Hematite comes as tumbles, beads and specimens: browse our wholesale hematite.
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