Hematite

Hematite

West Cumberland Iron Field, Copeland, Cumbria, England, UK

Mankind has loved hematite for its sleek, dark, gunmetal beauty and red undertones since its first discovery. It has been utilized as a reddening pigment by the ancient Egyptians, mined by the Etruscans, and made into seals in Babylonia. Hematite continued to be used to make intaglios well into the 20th century and is commonly seen in jewelry. It is, of course, also a favorite among mineral collectors in its crystallized forms and is considered a staple of any world-class collection.

This sculpturesque example is an old classic from the Cumberland Mine of the UK. It has a botryoidal (grapelike) crystal habit, which gives its crystals a spherical shape. Crystals are smooth, lustrous, and have a dark, gunmetal-tone that is highlighted by hints of red. Collectively, they have formed in a curving, stacked formation that gives the piece excellent dimension and a sense of movement. For its kind, it is particularly large and well-articulated, as though purposely sculpted by an artist, despite being made by nature alone. This specimen’s modern aesthetic and historic locality make it a striking collector’s piece and a natural work of art.

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