Magnetic Hematite

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale (for un-magnetized hematite); Color: Silvery-gray to black, often with a metallic luster (as seen on the beads); Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Often found in massive, botryoidal, or reniform habits; Cleavage: None, but can have parting; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.3. Magnetic hematite exhibits strong magnetism.

Hematite itself forms in a variety of geological environments, including as a primary mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks, and as a common alteration product in sedimentary rocks. It often precipitates from water and can be a significant constituent of banded iron formations. Magnetic hematite is typically natural hematite that has been artificially magnetized, or in some rare cases, it can refer to a form of hematite with natural residual magnetism due to geological processes. Its geological age varies widely depending on the formation of the original hematite deposit.

Magnetic hematite is predominantly used in jewelry (like the beads shown), alternative health practices (marketed for pain relief, improved circulation, etc., though scientific evidence is lacking), and as decorative items. Un-magnetized hematite is a major iron ore, used in steel production. It's also used as a pigment (red ochre), in polishing compounds, and as a common abrasive.

The name 'hematite' comes from the Greek word 'haima,' meaning blood, referring to the red streak it produces. When hematite is cut and polished, as in beads, it can have a highly reflective, metallic sheen. Hematite is the most important ore of iron. Though often called 'magnetic hematite,' it is important to note that pure, un-magnetized hematite is only weakly magnetic to paramagentic, usually not attracted to a hand magnet. The strong magnetism in 'magnetic hematite' jewelry is due to artificial magnetization, or sometimes it's a trade name for a synthetic magnetic material, or magnetite (Fe3O4), which is naturally strongly magnetic.

In the field, hematite is identified by its characteristic reddish-brown streak (even if the specimen itself is black or metallic gray) and its relative hardness. Magnetic hematite (as in the beads) can be easily identified by its strong attraction to a magnet, which distinguishes it from non-magnetic hematite. Hematite is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and is found in diverse locations globally, including the Lake Superior region of North America, Brazil, Australia, and many other iron-rich geological formations. For collectors, well-formed crystals or botryoidal specimens are highly prized. Magnetic hematite jewelry is commonly found in gift shops, craft fairs, and alternative medicine stores.