Hematite
Properties of hematite
Hematite is a very common mineral on Earth. Its luster ranges from bright metallic to dull. Its color follows a varied palette, from different shades of gray to browns and reds. Hematite has a high iron oxide content, up to 70%, and its hardness ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. The appearance of hematite varies greatly depending on its chemical composition and the temperature at the time the stone was formed.
In lamellae, crystalline forms, granular masses, or columns, hematite can appear in surprising or even spectacular shapes. As inclusions in crystals like quartz or jasper, hematite is breathtakingly beautiful.
Almost omnipresent on the planet, the most notable hematite deposits are found mainly in Brazil, France, Italy, the United States, South Africa...
History of hematite
Having accompanied the evolution of human civilization since prehistoric times, hematite is perhaps one of the richest stones in history. Pliny the Elder mentioned this stone as early as 77 AD. Etymologically, the name hematite comes from the Latin term hematites, derived from the ancient Greek hematites, meaning blood (a direct allusion to the pigment extracted from the red stone, which tends to resemble the color of blood when mixed with water).
From the Stone Age onward, hematite became a key component of the red ochre pigments that early humans used both to paint their bodies and to create representations of animals and humans that adorn cave paintings. From the ancient Babylonians to the Egyptians, from the Greeks to the Romans, from the Middle Ages to the modern era, hematite has been used in a variety of ways.
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Used for artistic purposes, the stone pigment has been very useful in painting. The medicinal and therapeutic uses of the stone were primarily in the treatment of wounds and illnesses. Some even attribute magical properties to this stone, given its many benefits.
Benefits of hematite
Lithotherapy recognizes that hematite has a purifying, invigorating, and fortifying effect on the blood. The stone helps fight infections related to the circulatory system. It is useful in combating hemorrhoids or varicose veins. The action of hematite is also beneficial for regulating blood pressure, balancing blood composition, and aiding in iron absorption, iron deficiency of which is the main cause of anemia.
Since ancient times, hematite has been used to treat warriors' wounds and hemorrhages on the battlefield, and to promote wound healing. The stone is also a valuable ally for women who suffer from painful menstruation. Hematite is also known to detoxify the liver, reduce bruising, soothe eye irritation, and treat conjunctivitis.
On a psychological level, hematite is recommended for women to overcome excessive shyness, strengthen willpower, and build self-confidence. A stone of courage, its energy brings serenity and optimism. By providing inner strength and promoting the ability to listen to oneself and others, hematite enhances the capacity to detect problems and blockages and stimulates the mind to remedy them. It is also because of this ability that hematite is considered one of the most useful stones in combating addictions to tobacco and other addictive substances. It is also believed to have a beneficial effect against compulsions and excessive behaviors, such as bulimia nervosa.
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The karmic benefits of hematite protect the aura from negative vibrations and energies. Its favorite chakras are the root chakra, the sacral chakra, and, of course, the heart chakra. For the latter, direct application of hematite is recommended.
Hematite is particularly favorable to the astrological signs of Aries, Scorpio, and Capricorn.
To purify the stone, simply place it in a terracotta or glass container and pour slightly salty distilled water over it. Recharging is easily done by exposing the stone to sunlight or placing it on a pile of quartz crystals.
