Hematite Beads

Hematite generally has a metallic luster, though it can also be dull earthy. Its color is steel-gray to black in massive forms, and often appears reddish-brown when scratched or in powdered form (producing a characteristic reddish-brown streak). It has no cleavage and forms various crystal habits, though these appear to be polished and shaped into beads. Hardness on the Mohs scale is 5.5-6.5. Specific gravity is 4.9-5.3.

Hematite is a very common iron oxide mineral found in rocks and soils. It forms in a variety of geological environments. It can occur as a primary mineral during magmatic differentiation, as a precipitate in sedimentary rocks (e.g., banded iron formations), or as a product of hydrothermal alteration and weathering processes. The beads themselves are a man-made product from natural hematite.

Hematite is the most important iron ore and is used extensively in the production of iron and steel. Due to its metallic luster when polished, it is frequently used as a gemstone in jewelry, often carved into cabochons, carved ornaments, or beads like those pictured. It is also used as a pigment (red ochre), in heavy media separation, and as a polishing agent.

Hematite is the mineral responsible for the red color of many rocks and soils, including the surface of Mars, earning Mars the nickname 'The Red Planet'. The name 'hematite' comes from the Greek word 'haima', meaning blood, referring to the red color of the mineral's streak and some of its varieties. It also holds cultural significance, with ancient civilizations using it for pigments, seals, and as a protective amulet.

In the field, raw hematite can be identified by its distinctive reddish-brown streak, which is a key diagnostic property even for specimens that appear black. Its high density is also noticeable when handling. It's found worldwide in significant deposits, including Brazil, the Lake Superior region in North America, Canada, and Australia. These specific items are polished beads, which are manufactured from raw hematite. When identifying hematite jewelry or beads, look for the metallic sheen and test the streak if possible (though scratching a finished bead is not recommended). Hematite is also often slightly magnetic when heated, and some varieties (like specular hematite) exhibit strong magnetism. Always look for the reddish-brown streak as the most reliable indicator for hematite.