This Seasons Featured Gem Stone, Faceted Haematite
Haematite is an amazingly sparkly gemstone, especially when it is faceted. It has a dark silver metallic lustre but can also be found in a matt and a rainbow finish. As the name suggests it is an iron-oxide based gemstone that gets its name from the Greek word ‘haima’, (heama) for ‘blood’, (reddish brown), which is the colour of haematite when in powdered form.
Haematite can be found in Switzerland, Italy and Brazil, it has also been found in Cumbria and The Forest of Dean in the UK.
Haematite was also discovered on Mars in 2001 by the NASA spacecraft Mars Odyssey. This discovery led scientists to arrive at the conclusion that there must have been water present on Mars in the past, as the gem’s formation is normally a result of volcanic activity or where ancient waters stagnated for long periods of time at hot temperatures.
Haematite has been said to influence the following attributes in the wearer: calming, balance, focusing energy and emotions, positive thinking and memory.
It is a birthstone for the Astrology sign – Aquarius, 19 January to 18 February.
Have a look at the sparkly Haematite jewellery on this website.