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Hematite
Reasonably thick crystals (not, therefore, the
lamella, ones) and compact, concretionary masses are suitable
fc cutting into gems and were particularly popular in the
recent past.
Appearance Dark, blackish gray, nontransparent
an, with a metallic luster, hematite is faceted, cut into
cabcchons, or engraved; it lends itself well to the marl of
signet rings. Other pieces are fashioned into necklac•
beads or pendants.
Distinctive features The metallic luster
and color ar• highly characteristic; still more so is
the red streak it leaveif drawn across a piece of unglazed
porcelain. Occurrence Now used comparatively rarely, the typ
from Great Britain, Switzerland, Germany, and the island c'
Elba is suitable for ornamental purposes.
Value Very low. Skillfully engraved items
are worth more.
Simulants and synthetics Despite
its modest value. ' has been imitated by a ferromagnetic,
sintered produc' moulded to look like engraved stones. It
does not appear t have been produced synthetically.
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