Hematite is an iron oxide mineral. Despite the rust that often appears on it, the stone is highly valued for its unique healing properties. The effect of iron head (the second name for hematite) on the human body is truly unique, but not a single scientist will explain why. Hematite bracelets are widely used in lithotherapy; wearing the product gradually relieves the owner of headaches and high blood pressure, but first things first: what is a hematite bracelet, the properties of the stone and who is it suitable for.
Hematite - history of the stone
This opaque mineral can be black, dark gray, burgundy, and sometimes silvery varieties are found. Thanks to its neutral color and luster, hematite can be used in any decoration.
A description of the history of the stone would take many pages - hematite entered the life of mankind so long ago and widely. Many cave paintings were made using red ironstone.
In ancient Egypt, priests of the goddess Isis wore jewelry made from blood stains on themselves and on statues of the goddess. They were considered protectors from dark entities.
Antiquity (Ancient Rome and Greece) was convinced of the magical power of this stone. Roman legionnaires, setting off on their next campaign, sewed a hematite amulet to their clothes. The most often used image was of a pentata - a good spirit - guardian of the house and the family living in it. The Slavs believed that a piece of bloody stone hung on a cradle protected the child from falls and injuries.
In medieval Europe, black diamond was considered the stone of magicians and sorcerers. In fact, the stone was used to apply magical symbols and amulets.
Subsequently, the enduring curiosity of women made the bloodstone a fashionable piece of jewelry. No wonder: hematite beads resemble black pearls, and well-polished inserts in wedding rings amaze with their mirror shine.
Varieties and colors
The many faces of hematite, depending on the origin and place of extraction, looks and is called differently:
- “Iron Rose” is an aggregate of hematite plates that forms something like a flower. The most fascinating specimens are found in Swiss mines.
- Red iron ore is a type of hematite with a predominance of small brown inclusions.
- Bloodstone is a red hematite with a dense structure.
- Specularite (iron mica) is distinguished by a predominance of gray color and pronounced shine (as if covered with varnish on top).
- Glass head is a cluster of round stones of a reddish hue.
Hematite has many nicknames that are not even immediately associated with this stone:
- Alaskan or black diamond;
- mirror ore;
- martit (in honor of the Roman god of war - Mars);
- iron sour cream;
- iron eye.
Hematite - physical properties
Iron oxide with the simple formula Fe2O3, iron ore.
- Mineral characteristics:
- The color of the stone is dark steel, from brown-red to black;
- Transparent in thin plates;
- hardness 5-6.5 on the Mohs scale;
- Metallic or matte shine;
- Color varies from cherry red to reddish brown;
- Density 4.9-5.3 g/cm³;
- Pleochroism is weak.
An interesting property of hematite is that with a high concentration of methane in the air, the stone changes its color, becoming red. Methane is a gas that seeps into ore mines and explodes. Miners wore hematite buttons on their work clothes. If the buttons turned red, it was a clear sign that the mine was filled with dangerous gas (natural methane has no odor) and work was stopped.
Imitation and fake natural stone
Despite the fact that hematite is quite widespread on the planet, fakes do occur, and even quite a few. They are trying to sell cermet “stones” under the guise of hematite. You can check it. Run a piece of stone over a ceramic shard - hematite will leave a red line, but a metal-ceramic “stone” will not. There is also a synthetic analogue - hematin. It is impossible to distinguish them externally, but hematin, unlike real stone, is attracted by a magnet.
Hematite deposits
Many known bloodstone deposits are scattered throughout the planet.
The mineral is mined in countries such as:
- Russia (Kursk magnetic anomaly);
- USA;
- Switzerland;
- Brazil;
- Ukraine (Krivoy Rog);
- Italy.
The forms of this mineral in nature are different.
Switzerland is famous for the extraction of unique “iron rose” hematite; the mineral grows in needle-shaped aggregates. The UK and the Czech Republic will share large units from their mines. Magnificent hematite crystals are found in Brazil, Italy and South Africa.
Interesting fact: those who love Westerns know that the Indians painted pictures on their faces and bodies. Few people know that the paint was made from bloodstone powder.
How much does bloodstone cost?
Bloodstone belongs to the minerals of the low price segment. In addition to the stone, the cost of the finished product is influenced by the value of the metal and the work of the jeweler.
Hematite jewelry can be purchased for 300–500 rubles (earrings or pendant) . Due to the high consumption of stone, the bracelet will cost approximately 500–1000 rubles . Of course, if framed in precious metal, the product will become 5 times more expensive, but it is worth remembering that gold only harms the energy of hematite.
Hematite firmly holds its position among popular jewelry for its exquisite shine, universal and laconic color, while remaining affordable for most people.
Hematite healing properties
In ancient times, the properties of hematite were explained by its ability to influence blood flow and change its composition. It is not surprising that this gemstone has been associated with blood in different cultures. The healing properties of the mineral found many applications; it was used to quickly heal wounds and stop bleeding.
Today, the beneficial properties of this wonderful stone can be regularly used to increase energy potential through jewelry.
- Normalizes both low and high blood pressure;
- Supports bone marrow regeneration;
- Fights genitourinary disorders, normalizes kidney function and restores reproductive ability;
- Hematite is considered a female stone, stops uterine bleeding, relieves painful sensitivity of the cycle, promotes normal pregnancy and increases lactation;
- Improves metabolic processes, strengthens the body's defenses;
- Relieves nervous tension, normalizes sleep, promotes optimism;
- Increases resistance to stress, strengthens willpower, the influence of the “black diamond” helps to give up bad habits and addictions;
- Inhibits the growth of tumors and carcinogenic cells.
Hematite is used for its healing properties in recovery from surgery, medical procedures or long-term pain.
The composition of the blood changes, the deficiency of microelements is replenished, and chemical parameters are normalized. It is worth using the properties of hematite stones to support the liver, kidneys and spleen. These organs perform a cleansing function, removing toxins and free radicals from the blood.
Talismans and amulets
Since ancient times, people have believed in the ability of hematite to protect warriors in battle and heal their wounds and illnesses. Sorcerers revered the mineral for its mystical color , ability to leave a red line on hard surfaces, and accessibility compared to other rocks.
For ordinary people, a hematite talisman can open the gift of premonition . The so-called proscopy consists of foreseeing fateful events, including diseases.
It is believed that hematite, formed from the earth's crust, remains forever connected with the subtle energy field of the planet and all its inhabitants (noosphere). A person, constantly in contact with a stone, receives signals from it in the form of prophetic dreams or inexplicable premonitions.
Energetically, the mineral is best suited for men , enhancing masculine character traits. It is recommended to wear a ring or amulet on your right hand.
Important! You should not buy a stone for a boy under 14–15 years old.
Women should wear a ring or hematite bracelet on their left hand. At night, jewelry is removed to clear away the energy accumulated during the day.
Hematite Products and Jewelry
Jewelry with hematites is almost never set in expensive metals, the only exception being silver. As a rule, various jewelry alloys or pure stone are used. For this reason, and also because of the low cost of inlay, such jewelry is rarely sold in large jewelry stores. However, they are quite easy to purchase from numerous online stores.
The cost of hematite jewelry varies depending on the type of stone used, its quality and complexity of processing:
A bracelet with a silver cross and several other designer silver inserts can be purchased for $76.
- Vintage Ural hematite beads - for $10.
- Set of silver earrings and ring for $40.
- Pendant made of large Ural stone for $30.
- Necklace + bracelet set for $44.
- Sanguine is also used to make all kinds of souvenirs, for example:
- A large amulet stone on an original bronze stand in the shape of a hand costs $40.
- Hematite box - $158.
- Chels - $25.
- Keychain - $5.
Amulets and amulets are made from hematite, animal figures are carved, runes are applied to certain stones for fortune telling, and so on.
History of hematite products
The name hematite stone comes from the ancient Greek word “haima”, which means “blood”. That is why the mineral is widely known under another name - bloodstone.
The history of the gem is full of superstitions and legends about its origin, properties and capabilities. According to ancient Christian beliefs, the red hue of hematite symbolizes the scarlet blood of Christ, which spilled onto the earth after the brutal crucifixion.
For this reason, all kinds of images with the image of the son of God, where hematite was used as red splashes of blood on the body and clothes of the savior, became widespread. In the old days, monks believed that the stone could color pure water, turning it into blood.
Note! In Tibet, the mineral was considered an exclusively feminine stone - pendants with large inserts were used as a talisman for young girls and pregnant women, protection against damage, the evil eye and misfortunes.
Hematite was heavily worshiped by the ancient Egyptians. The priestesses of the goddess Isis used the processed stone in any rituals - jewelry helped to communicate with higher powers and ask them for help. Also in Egypt, the protective properties of the stone were known - small figures in the form of scarab beetles were carved from it to protect the house from evil spirits and diseases.
The modern Hermitage is proud of its collection of seals from the Sumerian period. Ancient craftsmen, even in the absence of modern technologies and basic tools, were able to polish the products so painstakingly that they have a completely mirror surface.
The American Indians found an interesting use for the gem - they ground hematite to a fine powder to obtain a red pigment. Using this paint, they painted frightening stripes and designs on the face immediately before the battle. Such marks indicated the warrior’s outstanding strength and courage, his readiness to go to the end - to fight to the last drop of blood.
In the Roman Empire, hematite was also a symbol of bloodshed and brutal battles. Amulets and bracelets with such a stone were worn only by brave warriors who earned respect in battle.
☝Healing hematite...?Wearing it will be favorable for those whose Zodiac sign is ♈Aries, ♋Cancer or ♏Scorpio.
In addition,... Published by Natural Stone Jewelry - Stone Bar Wednesday, December 7, 2016
In the Middle Ages in European countries, hematite began to be added to various glass products and to decorate mirrors. Such things were especially popular among magicians, as they helped them communicate with otherworldly forces. The peak of popularity of bloodstone jewelry was observed during the Renaissance.
Interesting! With the beginning of the Renaissance, such products were on the pedestal of high fashion in almost all European countries. Society ladies wore them to all big events. Adding a bracelet or pendant with hematite to your collection was considered a sign of good taste, a stable financial situation and a sense of style.
This continued until the middle of the 18th century, when only mourning symbols began to be made from stone. Bloodstone was a companion of loss, tears and negative emotions. Jewelers of that time tried to avoid it when creating traditional jewelry.
The second peak in the popularity of hematite occurred in the 1970s - products of that time were distinguished by a variety of shapes, textures and sizes at a fairly modest price. Metallic shine was considered a sign of conciseness and style.
Be sure to see: Types, properties and magical powers of agate stone
Hematite bracelet magical properties
Hematite is associated with the magical land of Shambhala, as they say in Tibet. It is often used for inlaying monasteries to protect them from unworthy people; the mineral is also used to make bracelets of the same name. People who have mastered its power can communicate with the spirits of the dead.
Another advantage of hematite is the endowment of wisdom and insight. This gem is capable of revealing to a person the secrets of the Universe. It is also used by fortune tellers and clairvoyants to make the future brighter, clearer and more certain. Therefore, it is useful to wear hematite jewelry before a clairvoyance session.
The only advice is that for magical purposes, hematite is best framed in silver.
The right decoration
A beautiful decoration, I’ll buy it... It’s worth stopping and thinking.
Inserts from stones (not only hematite) into metals should be thought out by jewelers. And not only from the point of view of “beautiful-ugly”.
For example, a square cut stone will help a person improve his abilities. But the flight of imagination will be limited.
The shape of a stone in the form of a drop or a leaf gives the desire to achieve perfection in everything and will help to specialize in some narrow field of knowledge.
The oval, cylindrical shape will protect from “unkind glance” and will protect from dashing people.
Many esotericists do not advise making and wearing crosses and crescents from bloodstone. Such pendants and pendants can cause lung diseases.
But precisely from the bloody one. A cross made of jet, for example, gives the effect of a talisman.
Hematite bracelet - where healing comes from
This mineral creates a weak magnetic field. It helps cleanse the body, remove sand and kidney stones. The product has no contraindications for use.
The properties of hematite bracelets have a positive effect on blood circulation, joints and blood pressure. The most popular jewelry with hematite can be worn on the arm or leg.
It is not recommended to wear the bracelet on the same hand as the watch. The action of a magnetic field can have a negative effect on the mechanism.
Bracelet for vitality - how not to buy a fake
These jewelry are usually made of black or gray stones with a metallic sheen. Sometimes the beads have gasoline (rainbow) veins characteristic of the mineral.
Less popular in jewelry are the red varieties of this stone, which, according to scientists, have a weaker magnetic field. Although jewelry made from this mineral is cheap, fakes also appear on the market. They can be easily distinguished by the following characteristics:
- Plastic and glass fakes heat up more slowly than natural stone.
- If you run natural hematite over paper, a red mark will remain.
- A crushed piece of mineral will color the water red.
Due to the fact that hematite has a red color when crushed, it was called “bloodstone”. In ancient times, people believed that this mineral was the frozen blood of gods or dragons.
A hematite bracelet is not only a stylish decoration, but also a medicine that helps treat diseases. It is these properties that made it so popular .
How to spot a fake
Hematite is cheap, but it is counterfeited. More often they offer ceramics or synthetics.
The properties of hematite help identify the origin:
- Leaves a red streak on the porcelain. The fake is “without a trace.”
- Possesses weak magnetism: attracted to magnets or hematite accessories.
- Heavier than ceramics, especially synthetics of comparable dimensions.
- Bloodstone heats up quickly in your hands and takes a long time to cool down.
You can identify a fake hematite visually: the stone has a heterogeneous structure, a strong metallic luster, and shimmers in the sun.
How does a hematite bracelet work?
Bracelets are considered the most effective healing jewelry with hematite. This is due to the fact that there are biologically active points on the wrist. By interacting with them, the magnetic field of hematite jewelry affects the entire body. The healing properties of hematite bracelets have been scientifically proven.
A hematite bracelet helps improve health. It has the following properties:
- Normalizes blood pressure. Depending on the phase of the moon, it can either raise or lower it.
- Normalizes the level of hemoglobin in the blood.
- Activates metabolic processes in the body.
- Supports tissue oxygenation.
- Activates intestinal function.
- Has a calming effect and helps relieve stress.
- Helps get rid of bad habits and lose weight.
- Accelerates tissue regeneration.
- Stops bleeding.
- Improves the functioning of the urinary tract.
Hematite is known not only for its healing properties. Psychics claim that this stone has strong magical energy.
A bracelet with hematite enhances the intuition of its owner. If the owner already has psychic abilities, he will learn to predict the future.
Take care of your jewelry
Caring for the products is easy. The stone is fragile and is afraid of mechanical stress.
A fall from a height or an impact can irreparably damage the jewelry.
If possible, it is better to place each product in a case or in a separate bag. It is advisable to make them from thick, dense fabric (plush, fleece, velvet).
The stone is cleaned as it gets dirty, without exposure to chemicals. Avoid household chemicals if you are wearing jewelry with hematite.
Once a month, it is useful to hold the bloodstone for a while under running water to cleanse it of energy impurities.
How to wear a hematite bracelet?
Bracelets with hematite look stylish and original. They are combined with other stones such as turquoise or moonstone . They also look good paired with silver beads.
Men's bracelets look restrained and laconic. They are often created using square beads that are complemented with a cross or icons. Hematite beads decorated in the Shambhala style are also used.
The hematite bracelet is suitable for everyday styling. It looks good with a skirt and jacket, jeans and a T-shirt, a dress and stilettos.
Hematite bracelets should be cleaned once a month. Place the bracelet in a glass of water and leave it in the sun for one day. Hematite jewelry is not hard enough, so store it in a separate bag. If you drop a stone, it may break.
Hematite bracelet - who should not wear it
The only contraindication to the use of this mineral is individual intolerance. Some people experience an allergic reaction when the stone comes into contact with their skin.
This item has its own interpretation:
- Firstly, it cannot be used by people who have pacemakers or other electronic devices installed in their bodies.
- Secondly, the bracelet is not suitable for those who are prone to bleeding. Finally, it should not be worn by pregnant women or young children (under two years of age).
In each case, the influence of magnets and hematite is individual. Once you start wearing the bracelet, listen carefully to your body and remove it if you feel unwell.
A hematite bracelet, if handled with care, will last a very long time. Protect it from impacts and direct sunlight, do not leave it in the car or on the windowsill in the summer.
Also try not to keep the bracelet near audio and video cassettes and magnetic bank cards, as they may become demagnetized.
Combination of hematite with other minerals
The best companions for hematite are heliotrope, agate and emerald - an ideal combination of stones. It is not bad for it to be in proximity to green varieties of sapphires.
A conflict between the mineral and malachite and onyx cannot be ruled out. It is neutral in combination with carnelian.
With whom the mineral can never make friends is beryllium, lapis lazuli and ruby . Diamond, amber, carnelian, aquamarine, pearl, moonstone and heliotrope are also not suitable companions for hematite.
Women's hematite bracelet
Women's bracelets with hematite are available in various options. These are usually small pieces where the mineral may be in the shape of a sphere, slab or irregular crystal. Only in exceptional cases is the product complemented with other stones or precious metals. However, this is usually not recommended, since in this case the cost of the accessory increases significantly, which not everyone can afford.
Women's bracelets often contain various pendants in the form of animals, plants, birds, insects or other objects that are attributed with sacred meaning. For example, it could be a small cross, a clover leaf, an eye, an infinity sign.
There are also more festive products. They are usually similar to cuffs, that is, they fit tightly on the wrist and have a fairly decent width. In this case, the bracelet is either strewn with small scatterings of hematites, or has one large stone on a massive metal base.
Sometimes hematite can be found in watch bracelets. The stone is in harmony with the overall design of the product, as it is not bright and catchy. Such watches often make an excellent gift for a lover, wife, mother or grandmother.
Overall, a hematite bracelet can be worn anywhere. This could be work in the office, a walk, a business meeting, dinner at a restaurant, or a romantic date. However, it is necessary to choose the right product design. If you do not treat it as a holiday accessory intended only for special occasions, then you can safely use it in everyday life.
Fake or real
The stone is quite common, so a person with almost any income can buy it. It is not often counterfeited. But fakes still exist. But if you want to check, there is an easy test.
- You can identify a fake by its line. In natural hematite it is always dark red. We take unglazed porcelain or earthenware and draw a line with force several times.
- An imitation of hematite is offered for sale - hematin (an alloy of steel with chromium and nickel sulfides). Externally and in many characteristics, it is almost indistinguishable from bloodstone. The difference is small. Hematite has very weak magnetic properties (or none at all). Hematin's magnetic properties are slightly more pronounced. Here the gemologist will think about whether hematite or hematin is in front of him.
- As a cheap imitation option, you may be offered simple ceramics. It is easy to distinguish by its weight. Hematite is a heavy mineral; compared to most minerals, it is noticeably heavier in the palm.
Try all methods. If you are not confident in the naturalness of the stone, go to a gemologist.
Men's hematite bracelet
Men's bracelets with hematite are distinguished by their rigor and simplicity. They will definitely attract the attention of the stronger sex and will not leave you indifferent. The jewelry is ideal for wearing under a formal suit, so it can undoubtedly be worn both to business negotiations and to various meetings.
In men's products, hematite is not large, which, in principle, is what most men need who do not like excessive pretentiousness and brightness. The metallic luster of the mineral only emphasizes the seriousness of its owner.
However, men also prefer additional pendants in this accessory. Often, for example, they ask to additionally decorate the product with a metal skull, an anchor, or the same clover leaf.
Hematite - who suits it according to their zodiac sign
Three elements coexist in hematite stone - earth, water and fire. It is patronized by the militant Mars and the mysterious, enigmatic planet Pluto. It’s clear now why magicians are so interested in this stone.
The stone is too powerful and is not suitable for every zodiac sign. For Gemini, Virgo and Pisces, the energy of the stone can be very depressing and cause excessive nervous tension. The ideal owner for the stone will be Scorpio , and for Scorpio himself there is no better amulet. Hematite is also suitable for strong and energetic Aries .
You can try wearing hematite stone to signs in whose horoscope Pluto and Mars are in a vulnerable position to harmonize the missing qualities of these planets. The owner of the amulet will receive confidence and strength from Mars, and Pluto will help reveal hidden talents and find his place in this world.
This stone is very suitable for women. They will not become fatal seductresses, but they will certainly feel the power of their charms. And if men suddenly start giving their beloved expensive gold jewelry and diamonds, the credit goes to a small hematite ring on her finger or modest earrings with a hematite bead.