Last Updated on December 29, 2023
Hematite is a mineral commonly found in different rocks and soils. However, most people know it as a dark, alluring gem with a smooth, shiny surface. Because of its commercial value, some people try to peddle fake hematite for extra profit.
Here, we’ll tell you how to find genuine Hematite gems.
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How to tell if Hematite is real?
Hematite is real if it feels heavy, is dark black or gray in color, and has a metallic sheen. In other forms, hematite will have a rusty, red color to it. This makes sense considering that the prefix “hema” comes from the Greek word for blood, implying the presence of red.
How to test if your hematite is real?
To test if your hematite jewelry is real, simply try the magnetism test. Grab a magnet and put it against your hematite. If the hematite exhibits any level of magnetism, it isn’t real. Real hematite is non-magnetic.
If your hematite is unpolished, rub it gently with some sandpaper. If the result is red or reddish-brown, then there’s a good chance that the hematite is real. Second, try a streak test: quickly scrape the hematite along a piece of rough, black sandpaper. If the streak is reddish-brown again, it’s most likely real. If the result from either test is black, the hematite is fake.
Can Hematite be fake?
Yes. Unfortunately, Hematite is faked all the time. Commonly referred to as hematine or hemalyke, fake hematite can look very much like the real thing and is regularly used in jewelry. Some sellers will try to peddle you hematine as the real thing to make extra money.
However, hematine and hemalyke are often magnetic, while genuine hematite is not. If you’re unsure, try a quick magnetism test.
What does natural Hematite look like?
When polished, hematite is often black or gray with a metallic shine; it is also very dense and heavy. Real hematite has a high level of opacity: it is non-transparent, and light doesn’t travel through it. If light easily passes through your hematite, it may be fake. Because of the metallic luster, some have even mistaken their hematite for metal.
Where is hematite found?
Hematite can be found in many different parts of the world, including Switzerland, Romania, England, and South Africa. North America and Brazil are home to large hematite deposits as well. One of the most interesting things about hematite is that it has also been spotted on Mars in large amounts, leaving geologists and physicists to wonder how it got there.
What is hematite used for?
As one of the world’s best sources of iron ore, hematite is used for many things, including pigmentation and radiation protection. However, hematite is also used for spiritual reasons. Many believe that hematite has natural healing properties, such as stabilization and intellect improvement.
How should hematite be cut?
Because hematite is very dense and hard, it can be cut into a myriad of shapes, sizes, and designs. Plus — with its beautiful, dark shine — any cut of hematite can be alluring.
