Plated hematite is a commercially available material frequently seen in jewelry, using the dense, dark appearance of the mineral hematite as a foundation. This product is typically a manufactured or treated item designed to achieve a uniform, highly reflective finish. The term often describes a base that has been coated to enhance its aesthetic appeal, leading to consumer confusion. Understanding the distinction between the natural mineral and the treated jewelry material is important for durability.
Natural Hematite: The Mineral Baseline
Natural hematite is an abundant, naturally occurring iron oxide mineral (\(\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3\)) and the world’s most important ore of iron. Its name originates from the Greek word for blood, referencing its reddish-brown streak. Even when the surface appears silver-gray or black, a scratch test on an unglazed ceramic plate will reveal this distinctive red color. The luster of natural hematite ranges from earthy to a bright, mirror-like metallic sheen when polished.
Hematite is generally considered non-magnetic and will not respond to a common magnet. Some natural specimens may contain trace amounts of magnetite, which can result in a weak magnetic attraction.
The Distinction of Plating and Core Material
The term “plated hematite” refers to a product featuring a core material covered with a thin metallic finish. This core is often genuine hematite or a manufactured substitute, such as reconstituted material made from powdered iron oxide mixed with a binding agent.
Jewelry sold as “magnetic hematite” is almost always a synthetic material. This highly magnetic core is typically composed of a ceramic ferrite, such as barium-strontium ferrite. This engineered compound is a powerful ceramic magnet that is chemically distinct from natural hematite, which is not strongly magnetic. The use of this synthetic ferrite allows the jewelry to possess the magnetic properties associated with the name.
Regardless of the core material, the “plated” aspect refers to the thin, reflective layer applied to the surface. This coating is often a metallic alloy or a material like titanium, used to achieve a uniform silver, gold, or iridescent rainbow finish. The plating is applied through industrial processes such as electroplating or Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD). These methods ensure the coating adheres to the dense base material, providing the uniform, high-shine appearance desired for jewelry.
Practical Care and Identification
Plated hematite jewelry requires specific handling because the thin outer layer is susceptible to damage. The plating can wear off, chip, or tarnish when exposed to harsh conditions. Consumers should avoid exposing plated pieces to chemicals such as household cleaners, perfumes, or chlorine, as these can degrade the coating.
To clean plated hematite, use only a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water, avoiding abrasive materials or ultrasonic cleaning systems.
The core material can be checked using a basic identification test. Genuine hematite, when rubbed across unglazed porcelain, will leave a distinct reddish-brown streak. The most straightforward way to distinguish a natural piece from the synthetic magnetic version is by using a common magnet. If the piece is strongly attracted to the magnet, the core is likely manufactured barium ferrite. Observing color uniformity and looking for flaking or scratched areas also indicates the item is plated rather than a solid piece of natural mineral.