Hematite Uses

Hematite is a solid mineral substance which is a rich source of iron. In fact, it is an important ore of iron. In hematite, iron is present in the form of ferric oxide and is composed of two molecules of iron and three molecules of oxygen. Different types of hematite are mined from the iron mines in various parts of the world. Naturally occurring hematite has many different colors including black, brown, metallic gray and red. A common characteristics of all these types of hematite is the presence of a rust red streak in them. The name 'hematite' was derived from a Greek word which means blood. This is because the powdered form of this metallic ore appear red. Hematite was first used several thousands of years ago and is still being used for many different purposes.

Uses of Hematite

One of the key historical uses was as pigment. Historical evidence suggests that ancient Egyptians used hematite as a coloring agent in pottery to give them a brown or red shade. Later on, it was used as a pigment component in various types of paints. In modern times, it is no longer used as a coloring agent as the pigment is far more expensive than other pigments that are available today.

Ornamental use of hematite began in the Victorian era in between 1837 and 1901. It was used as gemstone in rings, bracelets, earrings and necklace. Even today black polished hematite beads are widely used for making costume jewelry. It is often referred to as black diamond because it is favorite for many women. Gem collectors and mineral collectors consider it as a good collectible stone as quite often it has magnetite, quartz calcite and pyrite in them. Polished black hematite can be carved into attractive figurines which can be used as decorative items in homes. Small-sized figurines made out of hematite is used as pendants and brooches as well.

Hematite is often referred to as natural ore of iron. This is because mining of this ore started quite early when other ores of iron were not known. It supplies us with a large amount of iron as its iron content is as high as 66 percent. Usually, any iron ore is processed first to get rid of all its impurities before it is fed into the blast furnace for making iron. Just because the concentration of iron in hematite is so high, it can be directly put into the blast furnace for making iron. More than 90 percent of iron extracted from hematite is being used for production of steel which is an important building material that adds strength to the structure. Besides, there are numerous other applications of steel.

How to Use Hematite Energy

One of the popular modern uses of hematite is for crystal healing. Though the practice started in ancient Greek but today people all across the globe are using hematite stone for treating various ailments. Crystal healers found it to be effective on various blood related diseases like anemia, hemophilia, menstrual cramps, nosebleeds and so on. Besides it has a healing effect on heart, kidney and liver diseases. Due to its high iron content, it has excellent magnetic properties. If you are surrounded with lots of chaotic energy and finding it difficult to concentrate, simply carrying a piece of hematite can protect you from unwanted energy. Moreover, it is capable of transfusing a lot of energy. Therefore, to yield maximum benefits from the mineral energy of other healing crystals, they should be used in combination with hematite. Aquamarine and hematite is a good combination for positive energy in everyday life. Those with blood pressure problems should use a bracelet made of hematite and Chrysolite.

If you are planning to use hematite energy let me tell you one thing that its mineral energy may not suit everyone. Some people do have unusual reactions after using hematite. In case, any physical symptoms like nausea, anxiety or restlessness are observed after using it, you must minimize hematite exposure.