Hematite (Fe2O3) is the most abundant iron ore because of its high iron content and abundance. Much hematite is a soft earthy form called red ocher, which is used as a pigment. A purified form of ground hematite called rouge is used to polish glass and jewelry. The most important hematite deposits are sedimentary in origin, and the Lake Superior district in North America is the world's largest producer. A few other major deposits are found in China, India, Australia, and Brazil.


Its name originates from the Greek haimatites, meaning "bloodlike," in reference to the vivid red color of the powder. Its apparent association with blood seems to go back much further; in the 10th millennium BC, hematite was scattered around skeletal remains buried at Chou-k'ou-tien, China.


Metaphysically Known For: Grounding, manifestation, making the spiritual physical.