Hematite is a common mineral and is the most
important ore of iron. It is found in Igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary
rocks. It is steel gray to iron black in colour but when powdered it has
a red streak. It's luster is metallic to dull. It's specific gravity is
5.26 and it's hardness is 5-6.
Deposits of Hematite are found im countries
all over the world. In Newfoundland on Wabana ,Bell Island mining has been
carried on at a large scale for many years. Also in Labrador boundary in
the Kmob Lake area enormous deposits of very rich ore has been found.
Uses:
In Italy and elsewhere, Hematite is fashioned
into necklaces which are sold as "volcano spit". Most of the iron today
was made into steel, which we turn into tools, cars, skyscrapers and thousands
of other things that make our world what it is.
Magical lore:
In ancient times Hematite was known as bloodstone
because it "bleeds" when ground into power and produces stains that look
much like blood. Hematite was said to be powerful in drawing illness from
the body. Hematite possesses the curious property of "healing" itself.
Make a small scratch on the surface of the stone. Then rub your finger
over it. It may.... disappear!
By: Jenelle Pike
Check out these Web sites as well!
The
Stupid Page of Rocks!