Hematite, also spelled haematite, [is a] heavy and relatively hard oxide mineral, ferric oxide (Fe2O3), that constitutes the most important iron ore because of its high iron content (70 percent) and its abundance. Its name is derived from the Greek word for “blood,” in allusion to its red colour. Continue reading from Encyclopedia Britannica
Hematite has an extremely variable appearance. Its luster can range from earthy to submetallic to metallic. Its color ranges include red to brown and black to gray to silver. It occurs in many forms that include micaceous, massive, crystalline, botryoidal, fibrous, oolitic, and others.
Even though hematite has a highly variable appearance, it always produces a reddish streak. Students in introductory geology courses are usually surprised to see a silver-colored mineral produce a reddish streak. They quickly learn that the reddish streak is the most important clue for identifying hematite.
Hematite is not magnetic and should not respond to a common magnet. However, many specimens of hematite contain enough magnetite that they are attracted to a common magnet. This can lead to an incorrect assumption that the specimen is magnetite or the weakly magnetic pyrrhotite. The investigator must check other properties to make a proper identification. Continue reading from Geology.com
While hematite is mainly mined for iron, there are several other uses for the mineral going back to the earliest civilizations.
Hematite is one of the main ingredients of "red ochre," a pigment used for paints, makeup, glazes, and early cave drawings in paleolithic eras. Rust and rust-derived minerals naturally hue red, so early civilizations always had access to this color. Red ochre was also used in paintings of the Renaissance era.
Since hematite can present itself in highly metallic and crystalline forms, it's also used in jewelry. When polished or tumbled, the mineral can give off a smooth metallic appearance, making it perfect for beads of all shapes and sizes.
The mineral has also been used as a "healing stone" that is said to bring relief from medical problems like anemia, leg cramps and insomnia. These claims, though, have no scientific basis. But there is a real medical use for hematite: It can stop X-rays and so it is used in radiation shielding for medical equipment. Continue reading from HowStuffWorks
Hematite is a phenomenal grounding stone and can help us to survive and thrive no matter the circumstances we find ourselves in. It is particularly useful during difficult seasons of life. Hematite encourages us to be honest and able to look directly at the source of our discomfort, so that we can make amends, heal and move forward. When necessary, it will also give us strength so we cut ties with whatever is no longer serving us. If the problems are internal, rather than external, Hematite helps us feel safer as we explore our Shadow Self. Hematite helps us to stay connected to our own bodies and the Earth while engaging in high spiritual work or energetic traveling. It gives us a warm sense of security, so that we feel safe enough to do the important work we need to do. It lifts away feelings of shame, confusion and despair, replacing those energies with determination to do better and to play a positive role in the world. Hematite gives us a keen discernment so that we can know truth and act accordingly. Continue reading from Moonrise Crystals
Historically speaking, crystals are touted as ancient forms of medicine, with philosophies borrowed from Hinduism and Buddhism. However, it’s important to know that there’s no scientific evidence to support the use of crystals. Despite this, people are still drawn to their colors and beauty. The key to indulging in this self-care experience is mindfulness, reflection, and acceptance. For instance, researchers found that a person’s mind may have much more healing power than it’s given credit. Continue reading from Healthline
