What Are Hematite Gems?

Considered a mineral, hematite is actually a type of iron oxide. The material is usually black or gray. Occasionally it can also have noticeable red colorations. It is interesting to note that it was the red color that caused the material to receive its name. The mineral has been used as pigmentation for writing utensils, makeup and clay. Nowadays, hematite is mined in China, Brazil, Canada and Great Britain.

Astrologists apportion the gray hematite to the Zodiac signs of the Aries and Aquarius. The mineral’s power is said to come from Mars and Mercury. As unofficial birth stones, the gems find usage in March as well as December. Some hematite gems are cut into a rounded rock or flat appearance. Highly polished, they become palm stones that owners keep in their pockets. You may have noticed that some pieces are made into perfect spheres or egg shapes, which come with a small show setting. They are suitable for a desktop display.

Other pieces are cut, polished and set in Sterling silver. The darker the hematite, the more beautiful the offset between the mineral and the metal. Mimicking black pearls just a little bit, still other pieces are cut into identical spheres that are then polished and placed on a string. While they are not intended to fool the eye into believing them to be black pearls, they do take on this look from a distance.

Alternative healers ascribe numerous benefits to the possession and wear of hematite gems. The mineral is credited with the improvement of interpersonal relationships. Folks who are having difficult dealings with a person are encouraged to carry a hematite palm stone or wear a piece of hematite jewelry during the next meeting. The stone is said to prevent you from prematurely judging a person, which of course greatly assists with the improvement of all relationships that may be a bit difficult.

In ancient times, Egyptians ground up hematite and used it in poultices to calm inflammation. When ingested, they believed that the mineral could also cure hysteria. Interestingly, hematite jewelry and stones were found as tomb offerings in pyramids. Assisting the Egyptian in the afterlife, these stones were believed to help her or him regain energy and protect against attacks. Roman warriors believed that the use of hematite in armor and other gear would lead to invincibility. Native Americans ground up the mineral and incorporated it in their face paint to give it a frightening red tint.

Although hematite is very inexpensive, there are some look-alikes on the market. Marketed as hemalyke or hematine, these pieces are actually stainless steel. If you have your heart set on authentic hematite gems, pay close attention to the spelling of the material.

At Peter Suchy Jewelers, we are expert gemologists and are GIA Certified. We hope you’ll stop by our showroom located at 1137 High Ridge Road in Stamford Connecticut.

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