Raw hematite is a piece of earth concentrated with iron and strength. In its natural form, it appears as reniform masses (rounded masses with a metallic luster), rosettes (petal-shaped crystals), compact earthy masses, or brilliant tabular crystals. The contrast between the sometimes reddish raw surface and the mirror-like luster of the fractured surfaces is striking. It is the same ore that prehistoric humans ground to make red ochre, that Roman gladiators rubbed on their bodies before combat, and that NASA identified in abundance on Mars, giving the red planet its color. Holding raw hematite in your hand, you immediately feel its exceptional weight: approximately 70% iron, it is almost metal in stone form.
In lithotherapy, raw hematite is considered the most powerful form of this anchoring stone. Its intact structure is believed to diffuse a deeper, more direct, and more intense energy of grounding, willpower, and life force than the polished version. Placed on a desk, it provides determination and structure to work. At the entrance of the home, it solidly anchors the energy of the household. Held in hand during meditation, it activates the root chakra with a dense power that immediately brings one back into the body and the present. It is the stone for those who need tangibility, action, and results. Tradition also attributes to it the strengthening of blood circulation and aid in iron absorption, echoing its composition.
For care, raw hematite does not tolerate prolonged water exposure. Iron oxidizes upon contact with moisture. Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth if necessary and recharge it on a quartz cluster or in moonlight. Keep it in a dry place. With a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, it can be handled normally, but be careful of surfaces that might be scratched by the red streak it can leave.
