Hematite is, visually, a metallic gray mineral which is largely made of iron oxide. Although many varieties exist such as, red gray, red brown with a metallic luster, this form is perhaps the most widely recognized. Its name comes from the Greek word for blood “haima” since it becomes red when melted, cut or in powder form. This shiny stone is found world wide but the best, gem grade variety comes mostly from Europe, Brazil and the USA. It has been widely believed for centuries that hematite has many benefits on a metaphysical level as well as physical. Its uses have varied though out the centuries such as making seals in Babylonia as early as 1900-1300 B.C. The ancient Egyptians used hematite in the creation of their magical amulets. Some of these amulets were used as treatments for conditions such as madness and inflammation. In the early part of the 20th century Hematite was used in mourning jewelry and also in stick pins used for ties. Today Hematite is commonly found in forms such as cabochons and as spherical, faceted, and tumbled irregularly shaped beads used in jewelry, ornaments, paper weights, polished spheres and eggs. More recently there has been a growing market for flat and natural pieces of Hematite as well. Some like to ware strings of hematite beads, however many say they are only able to ware them for short periods of time at best due to the stones heaviness.
Not only is hematite attractive but it also has many other unique qualities as well. It is used as a physical and mental healing aid for many conditions. Physical healing, according to those who study mineral and crystal healing, includes treatment of for treating blood-related illnesses such as hemophilia, anemia, heart, kidney and liver diseases, cardio-vascular weakness, menstrual cramps, and nose bleeds. Hematite was also a Native American remedy for dental problems, pimples, canker sores and alcohol abuse. In terms of mental healing, Hematite is known for its ability to bring about a calm mental state, improve memory, mental focus and concentration. It can boost self confidence increase logical mind set, and is considered excellent for treating mental stress due to its calming nature. Hematite also dissolves negative energy which helps to add a form of protection, similar to a shield of armor, for its user. It is also an excellent aid in meditation because of it’s over all calming effects on the mental state. These traits are recognized by healers to tune the consciousness, increasing the pathways that lead to inner knowledge. Hematite also aids in sleep and is credited for eliminating worry and healing the effects of jet lag in those who travel. It is also known as an excellent “grounding” stone. Those who believe in the spirit world consider it helpful in meditation leading to astral projection and the communication of love’s energy. Further, they say that hematite is a lawyer’s stone because it brings about positive judgments in legal matters and the stone helps one remain true to his or her inner self.
In Roman times, warriors used hematite as protection during battle. Hematite also relates to Mars, the Roman God of War in mythology in both ancient times and by followers of the New Age religion. Native Americans felt the same way and believed that if hematite was used in war paint it would protect as well. For this reason they used Red Ochre, a pigment created from hematite as face paint. In astrology, hematite is known as a stone associated with Capricorn, Aries and Aquarius. All of these signs ironically have personalities that are in need of a good, calming and grounding stone. Despite its conjunction with the roman God Mars, Saturn governs Hematite in terms of astrology and it also symbolizes the hour of 2:00 am.
So next time you find a shiny metallic stone in a jewelers case or the local gem store, take a closer look and ask some questions about it. You may well have found a treasure that can aid in enlightening your life in many ways. Whether one believes in its mythical and magical powers or it is simply admired for its natural luster and uniqueness hematite is a beautiful and interesting stone that would make a great addition to any collection.
