Hematite Jewelry
Hematite is the mineral form of iron oxide and has a striking metallic luster, similar to polished metal. The word hematite comes from the Greek work "haima" meaning blood, referring to the mineral's red color when in powdered form. A hematite stone will leave a red streak when scratched along a piece of unglazed porcelain.
Hematite: a Glamorous Gunmetal Glow
Hematite was used in seals as early as 2500 B.C. The ancient Egyptians placed hematite in tombs, as they believed it would help with the transition to the afterlife. Roman warriors associated hematite with Mars, the Roman God of War. The soldiers used hematite for protection in battles, believing it would make them invincible. Native Americans used the powdered form of hematite to create red face paint while American colonists relied on hematite to create weapons for the Revolutionary War.
With a dark and mysterious metallic glow, hematite jewelry is a glamorous way to add drama to your look. Visit the Ross-Simons' web site to see our entire collection of hematite jewelry today.
The mineral form of iron oxide, hematite gemstones resemble polished metal, adding a dramatic, tough-chic shine to necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings. Usually presented as faceted beads or cabochons, hematite is a gorgeous way to go gray. More about colored gemstones.
In nature, hematite is found in the shades of silvery to blackish grey, brown and reddish brown. Ross-Simons' jewelry designers prefer the charcoal color as it lends an edgy, dark metallic shine to necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. Hematite can be cut into cabochons, faceted or shaped as beads, and also takes well to engraving. When highly polished, hematite's smoky dark glow makes a dramatic fashion statement.
Hematite is found in the England, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, Canada and the United States.
Hematite Jewelry Care & Handling
Hematite is one of the softer gemstones (5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale), and care should be taken to avoid scratches and sharp blows. Clean your hematite jewelry with warm soapy water when needed and store in your Ross-Simons' presentation box for safekeeping.