Hematite is a mineral used in decorative rocks, paints and jewelry.
Hematite is a mineral created from iron and oxygen. Found in deposits near water or places where water once was, this is an iron ore mined in North and South America, the United Kingdom and Australia. This common mineral is heavy, magnetic and not transparent. People use hematite in many ways, including making paints, dyes and jewelry.
Paints and Dyes
Hematite is typically black, gray, brown, red or a combination of those colors. Crush and grind this ore into dust, and it takes on a reddish hue. This powder is used in pigments for paints and dyes.
Jewelry
Jewelry making often makes use of hematite, forming beads for stringing on necklaces and bracelets. These beads can resemble black pearls or other charms or pendants for sporting on necklaces. The color of assorted crimson gemstones, such as garnet, spinel and ruby, can be somewhat attributed to the presence of hematite.
Crystals
Hematite is capable of growing naturally in crystal formations. When polished, these crystals make lovely decorations. Some people believe crystals have healing powers, and hematite crystals are no exception. Healing powers or not, these crystals are definitely eye-catching.
Weight
This mineral contains a great deal of iron, which makes hematite heavier than wood or shell beads. You will feel the weight when wearing the jewelry, making it difficult to do so for long periods. When making jewelry, use a bracelet or necklace strand strong enough to withstand the hematite's weight.
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