Hematite

Hematite is an iron ore mineral found in abundance in the Earth's crust. Depending upon its chemical composition, the color ranges from white to yellowish brown or red. Hematite has been used as a gemstone since ancient times. Its name comes from the Greek word "hemat" which means blood. This refers to the reddish tint it takes on when to cut into thin slices. Hematite is often associated with the element chromium.