HAEMATITE

Haematite or hematite is the major ore mined to produce Iron. Wordwide it can be sourced from Brazil, Sweden, Germany, Norway, England, Spain, New Zealand and the West and Midwest of the United States Of America.

Its name is derived from the Greek word for blood 'haima' so called because in the natural form refers to the dark red streaks found through the ore it also shows a blood red colour when cut into thin slices.

As an iron ore and hence associated with Mars, the god of war, it was considered to be invaluable to help the warrior on the battle field if he rubbed his body with it. It was also used to protect the wearer from bleeding.

There are also references to the ancient Egyptians using haematite for 'urs' the amulet that represents the pillow or headrest in 'The Book of the Dead', a set of engraving texts in distinct chapters which document the passing of the soul of the deceased through the realm of the dead (Amenti).

When it is powdered it can be used as an artists pigments or for polishing

Haematite has a beautiful metallic grey opaque colour with a beautiful lustre ideal for jewellery items when cut into fabulous shapes such as Haematite swirls, twists and stars to name but a few examples. We will be expanding our range of Haematite beads soon as we believe it is a stunning natural material.

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