Hobbies And Interests
The Mars Connection
An interesting fact about hematite is that the mineral has been detected in large quantities on the planet Mars. The red planet has always been somewhat of a mystery, and scientists speculate that Mars gets its red color due to the amount of iron compounds in its soil. There are different varieties of hematite, but the gray silver type found on Mars makes the discovery more intriguing since this variety of hematite is normally formed on Earth in aqueous environments such as hot springs. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the presence of gray hematite may be evidence that water was once present on Mars and that the planet may have had active hot springs at some time in its past.
Hematite Booby Trap
The Ancient Egyptians used hematite as a red pigment called ochre, but they were also aware that as a fine dust they could use it as a booby trap. In 2001, an Egyptian archaeologist entered a tomb he believed to belong to an ancient mayor. When the archaeologist, Zahi Hawass, entered the chamber he discovered the floor and sarcophagus were covered in several inches of powdered hematite dust. The archaeologist and his team had to leave and return later wearing protective gear with breathing apparatus. Powdered hematite dust can irritate the skin, eyes and mucous membranes. It can even cause lung disease, which could potentially be fatal if someone is exposed for long periods. The hematite dust had apparently been used as a booby trap to deter potential tomb robbers.
Hematite in Jewelry
Hematite is often used as a semi-precious gemstone in the making of jewelry, particularly pendants and bracelets. Hematite does have a lustrous, metallic appearance that makes it appealing for certain pieces of jewelry and it is sometimes carved into various shapes. Hematite can be a bit heavy to wear on a regular basis. Jewelry made of hematite can also cause skin irritation in some people when worn next to exposed skin.
Hematite in Folklore
Alternative health practitioners who use gemstones in their practice consider hematite a grounding stone. A grounding stone such as hematite is a good choice for people who have difficulty concentrating or focusing on the task at hand, because it helps keep a person grounded in their physical reality. Some use it to strengthen the body and relieve stress. In ancient times, hematite was associated with Mars, the Roman God of War. Roman soldiers believed the mineral would protect them on the battleground.