Hematite

Hematite Characteristics

Hematite is a metallic grey to black gemstone. It’s opaque. The interesting thing is when you crush the stone or leave a streak of it on another lighter coloured stone, the streak is red. It was once called “Bloodstone” because of this.

Colours: Grey, Black
Transparency: Opaque
Refractive Index: 2.940 – 3.220
Specific Gravity: 5.20
Specific Gravity Range: + .08 – .25
Optic Character & Crystal System: AGG Hexagonal
Mohs Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5
Comments: Common as intaglios and beads. Streak and fracture surface commonly red-brown. None to moderate magnetism. Intaglios often polished on back. Confused with imitation hematite (“hematine”).
Hematite Intaglio Ring
Hematite Intaglio Ring
Gemstone Properties
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