Hematite

Receive one tumbled Hematite stone for $2

Hematite has a long history of use as a pigment. As a gemstone, this material is often carved but very rarely faceted. Despite its association with blood and the color red, hematite’s color can range from black and metallic gray to brownish red in thin slivers or crystals.

Red ochre clay contains hematite. People have used this material since the Stone Age for decoration and writing. Of more recent use, rouge, a polishing compound widely used on silver and gold, is powdered hematite. Of course, people have also mined this mineral as a source of iron.

The name hematite derives its meaning from the Greek word for blood. The reason for the origin of hematite's name can be twofold. The hematite looks shiny black on the outside, but if you break the stone (not an easy thing to do!), you will see that on the inside hematite has a deep blood red color.

If you're drawn to the Hematite crystal, it could be a sign that you're in need of grounding and balancing in your life. As soon as the Hematite crystal stone touches the skin, you'll feel more centered and calm with its intense but subtle vibrations. While all crystals have powerful grounding effects, the Hematite crystal properties are a gem when it comes to clearing and activating the root chakra, the energy center that anchors us to the earth and provides a feeling of stability.