Definition: Hematite is an opaque form of iron oxide (rust) that is grey to silver when polished. The term hematite is derived from the Greek word for blood, no doubt because powdered hematite is reddish in color. Hematite is inexpensive and often used to make beads and cabochons.
Hematite is rated at 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
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Also Known As: Hematite is sometimes called bloodstone.
Common Misspellings: Hemalyke is reconstituted hematite. Hemetine is a synthetic that's often used to replace hematite.