Hematite 黑胆石 / 赤铁矿

Deposit sites: New Zealand, Germany, Sweden, U.S.A., Australia, Brazil, Spain, Norway, Urals. England, Switzerland, Alaska, and Canada

Variety/Species: Iron/Kidney ore

Hardness: 5.5 ~ 6.5

Zodiacal sign: Aries, Scorpio, Capricorn

Color scheme: Grayish black, dark gray to black.

Gemstone of the month: 11th Wedding Anniversary

Hematite means “Blood Stone” and was considered a powerful talisman. Soldiers associated it with Mars, God of war, and believed it to protect them in battle. It is even more commonly called “Black Diamond” thanks to our friends from Alaska.

The name hematite comes from the Greek “haimatites” meaning blood (stone), because when cut the coolant is colored red. Long ago hematite was used as an amulet to protect against bleeding. Because of its surface, it was also used as a mirror in ancient times.

Hematite has long been thought to help enhance alertness, vivacity and success, it is also said to bring luck in matters of the heart.