An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A mineral that is often found in meteorites. It is an oxide of iron (Fe₂O₃) that is similar to magnetite. It does not attract a magnet. When it is rubbed against an object harder than itself, it leaves a reddish-brown stain. Hematite is also sometimes called bloodstone.

See also: From M.Fr. hematite, from L. hæmatites, from Gk. haimatites lithos “bloodlike stone,” from haima (genitive haimatos) “blood”

• -ites, → -ite, + lithos “stone.”