Hematite

What is Hematite?

Hematite often spelt as Haematite, is a heavy iron oxide compound with ferric oxide. There are multiple forms of Hematite known with separate names. It constitutes iron ore in abundance.

Origin of the Hematite

The name of Hematite is a derivation of the Greek word blood αἷμα (haima) which means blood like stone. It is due to the allusion of vivid red colour that is often found in some Hematite variants. This colour is commonly used as a pigment.

Hematite is mostly of sedimentary origin. Hence, approximately 75 million tons of hematite deposits are annually of sedimentary origin. It is also found in igneous rocks as the form of the accessory mineral. Thus, it is common as a weathering compound of magnetite, siderite and different iron minerals.

How is Hematite formed?

Hematite usually forms in a matrix of various other minerals. The minerals get precipitated in the water and accumulate at the bottom of either lake, spring or other types of standing water in layers. It can also form without water as an effect of volcanic activity.

Besides, Hematite crystals in clay size can form as a secondary mineral. This is usually formed by process of weather in soil with it on oxides or the oxyhydroxides like goethite. This content is actually responsible for the appearance of red colour on Hematite.

Where are Hematite found?

The Hematite deposits are found in the Lake Superior district in North America. Other sources of Hematite deposits are Minas Gerais in Brazil, where it originates in the metamorphosed sediments.

Also, Hematite is available in Labrador and Quebec, Canada and Cerro Bolívar, Venezuela. Furthermore, a rich deposit of this stone is found in the Elba islands.

Hematite Colour

Hematite colour varies from grey, steel-grey, black to brown, reddish-brown, rust-red. Hematite stones come with a streak of dark red to a bright red shade.

Hematite Composition

Hematite is a mineral composition of common iron oxide. So, it is a magnetic and quite heavy stone.

Clarity and Lustre of Hematite

The lustre of Hematite appears in metallic, sub-metallic to earthy forms. Its transparency is opaque.

What are the Properties of the hematite?

The lustre of Hematite appears in metallic, sub-metallic to earthy forms. Its transparency is opaque.

What are the Properties of the hematite?

• Category: Oxide minerals
• Chemical Classification: Fe2O3
• Specific Gravity: 5.26
• Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5 (Mohs Scale)
• Cleavage: None observed
• Fracture: Uneven/Irregular to sub-conchoidal
• Tenacity: Brittle
• Diaphaneity: Opaque
• Density: 5.3 g/cm3 (Measured) and 5.255 g/cm3 (Calculated)
• Birefringence: δ = 0.280

Hematite Zodiac Birthstone

Hematite is suitable for people whose zodiac signs are Aries and Aquarius.

Hematite and Chakra

Hematite is linked to the base chakra that empowers the mind.

What are the Benefits of the Hematite?

Hematite is popular as a mind stone to strengthen earthy connection and provide courage, vitality and endurance. Moreover, it dissolves negative energy, enhances focus, concentration, memory and maintains a balance between mind, body and spirit.

What Jewellery is Hematite suitable for?

Earlier, Hematite was used as a setting for mourning jewellery. Now, it is commonly used in earrings, bracelets and pendants.