Updated July 17, 2023 by Alexandre Baillairge
Specularite or specular hematite is a beautiful stone with a silvery and shimmering surface and a black undertone that may come across as navy blue or grey. Sometimes it can occur in dull formations, but it usually has a distinct metallic luster and includes traces of mica. Specularite can be found worldwide, but it is primarily found in England, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Venezuela, Brazil, Canada, and the USA.
The Physical Properties of Specular Hematite
A variation of hematite, a common iron oxide present in soils and rocks. It has the same crystal structure as corundum and ilmenite and crystallizes in the rhombohedral lattice system. It is colored red, brown to reddish-brown, and steel to silver-gray.
The gem is mined as one of the primary ores of iron besides martite, iron rose, and kidney ore. All those forms of hematite may vary, but all of them have a rust-red streak. It has a value of 5-6 on the Mohs scale of hardness and is harder than pure iron but much more brittle.
The History of Specular Hematite
Hematite got its name from the Greek word haima (blood) because of the red coloration in some varieties. Specular refers to its mirror-like properties due to its metallic luster. One of the earliest writings in the history of humans was the red chalk writing of the mineral.
In its powdery form, it was first used about 160,000 years ago for social purposes. It was found in graves in Hungary and Poland, dating from 80,000 ago. In Victorian England, hematite was quite popular as jewelry, while some varieties have been used in gilding.
In ancient times, people believed that huge deposits of the mineral formed on battlegrounds where soldiers were killed or injured and lost blood from their injuries.
Egyptians used to place hematite objects inside their tombs. It was believed to be a grounding and healing stone that helps lessen stress, strengthen the body, and enhance its wearer's personal magnetism.
The Healing Benefits of Specular Hematite
Specular hematite is a powerful gem that is known for its diverse healing properties. It is especially sought after for its ability to dissolve negativity, transmuting it into positive, healing energy. This stone can help facilitate a high vibrational state that is both grounded and serene. By balancing the meridians – the energy pathways in the body, it fosters an equilibrium between Ying Yang energies, thereby contributing to the overall health and harmony of one's inner energy system.
Beyond just its physical healing properties, specular hematite also provides profound psychological benefits. It imparts a deep, inner peace that stems from its ability to calm the mind. This peace is conducive to improved cognitive functioning, including thought development and memory enhancement.
It is a particularly powerful gemstone for boosting self-worth and confidence. This aspect of specular hematite's healing power can assist individuals in overcoming self-doubt and insecurity, allowing them to approach life's challenges with greater assurance and poise.
As a tool in meditation, specular hematite facilitates a deeper connection to the energy of the soul. It can aid in past-life recall, helping to unravel the mysteries of previous existences and karmic lessons. Moreover, it can enhance communication with the Angelic realm, providing spiritual insights and guidance from these divine beings.
Which Chakra is Specular Hematite good for?
In the context of the body's energy centers or chakras, specular hematite serves as a conduit between the Root and Crown chakras. This connection helps to ground higher, spiritual frequencies while simultaneously raising lower, grounded frequencies. The result is a harmonious balance that aligns the spiritual and physical aspects of an individual.
Specular hematite promotes fearless self-expression and authenticity. It encourages its wearers to shed their inhibitions and judgment, awakening their true spirit. This stone challenges the preconceived notions and societal norms regarding spirituality, empowering its users to carve their own unique spiritual path that resonates with their personal beliefs and experiences.
How to use Specular Hematite
When you wear or carry this stone, it acts as a compass guiding you to your unique talents and potentials. It illuminates how these talents can be harnessed in various situations or endeavors. This could manifest in any aspect of your life - from working on specific projects to the seemingly mundane activities of daily life.
The distinct star-like patterns on the surface of specular hematite serve as a beautiful reminder that the cosmos is closer than we often perceive. These patterns evoke the interconnectedness of all things and help ground the understanding that each individual, like a star, has their unique place and purpose in the vast expanse of the universe. By reminding us of our inherent connection to the stars, specular hematite provides an inspirational perspective on our personal journey through life.
