HEMATITE is a mineral, colored black to steel or silver-gray, brown to reddish brown, or red. It is mined as the main ore of iron. It is harder than pure iron, but much more brittle. The name HEMATITE originates from the Greek word for blood, haima. When crushed, HEMATITE will turn water red.
USES: Beyond its use as ore, jewelers appreciate its shiny luster for creating engravings, cameos, cabochons (see my post dated October 3, 2009, Word of the Week: "Cabochon" ) beads and imitation diamonds. HEMATITE'S popularity in the jewelry world was at its highest in Europe during the Victorian era, and has since seen a strong resurgence in North America, especially in the western United States.
Last but not least, apparently HEMATITE is also known for it's "mystical" properties. It is said that wearing it will bring about favorable outcomes of petitions and lawsuits, and that it should be considered de rigeur for all attorneys. Oh well, I guess I missed the boat on that one in my other life as a lawyer. LOL. Live and learn.
Time to go make some jewelry. Ciao.
"When you follow your bliss, doors will open where you would not have thought there would be doors; and where there wouldn't be a door for anyone else."
- Joseph Campbell
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