Magnetic Hematite
Hematite Beads
Hematite makes great jewellery because it’s inexpensive, shiny and sleek. People wear it as rings, bracelets and necklaces not only for style, but because they believe the magnetic variety relieves rheumatism. Magnetic therapy has been around for over 4,000 years. Bio-magnetic bracelets are becoming popular again. Some swear, not only do they look good; the magnetism makes them feel better too.

Therapists claim they can cure disorders and the magnetism relieves pain and stress, especially if the bracelet is worn on the area of reflexive points. It’s also said to protect from harmful radiation caused from every-days appliances like microwave ovens, mobile phones and televisions.

The idea is that magnetic fields relax capillary walls in the body by increasing blood flow, similar to effects of massaging muscles. The average person has 3 to 4gms of iron in their blood. When this is magnetized, circulation increases. Others say, magnetic jewellery allows the body to produce endorphins, the natural pain killers.

Other Hematite
AB Hematite Beads
Not all hematite is magnetic. Sometimes the magnetic attraction can be a disadvantage to jewellery design – pulling metal from other components. There is also a new type of hematite bead giving yet another angle to this versatile metal – Aurora Borealis. This is hematite with an AB coating similarly used on crystals, producing a multi-coloured effect when turned. This looks striking on jewellery designed to be worn in bright lights at night.

What Is Hematite?
Hematite Beads

Hematite is one of the most common minerals, being the principle ore of iron. The colour of most red rock, like sandstone, is caused by small amounts of hematite.

All non-crystalline forms of hematite are transformations of the mineral Limonite that lost water, possibly due to heat. Hence the recent excitement of the discovery of grey hematite on the planet Mars, suggesting there was once water present.

Only well formed hematite crystals are cut and polished into cabochons for jewellery, beads, and ornaments.

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