Hematite

For industrial applications (such as pigments or radiation shielding), the Fe2O3 (Iron Oxide) content should typically be above 85-90%. For jewelry and wellness products, focus on magnetic strength (if magnetized), surface polish quality (free of cracks or pits), and specific gravity, which should range between 4.9 to 5.3. Ensure the Mohs hardness is between 5.5 and 6.5 to guarantee durability.

Buyers must ensure products comply with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) for the EU market and California Proposition 65 for the US, particularly regarding heavy metal content (Lead, Cadmium, Nickel). For industrial powders, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is mandatory to verify non-toxicity and handling procedures. If sourced for 'healing' properties, ensure no unsubstantiated medical claims are attached to the shipping documentation to avoid customs delays.

Perform a streak test: genuine Hematite will leave a reddish-brown streak on unglazed porcelain, regardless of its external metallic grey color. For bulk jewelry orders, request third-party lab testing (e.g., GIA or local equivalent) to ensure it is not 'Hemalyke' (a synthetic composite). Check for uniformity in electroplating if the product has a rainbow or metallic finish to prevent premature fading.

Cost is heavily driven by processing depth. Raw ore is inexpensive but has high shipping costs due to weight. Polished beads or magnetic components are priced by strand or piece count. To optimize costs, source from suppliers on Made-in-China.com who offer tiered pricing for 500+ units, and consider sea freight for bulk raw materials as the high density of Hematite makes air freight prohibitively expensive.

The biggest risk is weight-related shipping surcharges and breakage during transit due to the stone's brittle nature. Always insist on reinforced packaging and palletization for bulk orders. Additionally, be wary of synthetic substitutes being sold as natural stone; use Trade Assurance on Made-in-China.com to protect your payment until quality is verified.

Focus on long-term volume commitments rather than one-off purchases to secure a 10-20% discount. Ask for OEM/ODM customization (e.g., specific bead sizes or laser-engraved logos) to be included in the unit price. Request FOB (Free On Board) terms to maintain control over your logistics costs, as Hematite's weight gives you more leverage if you manage your own shipping contract.

If purchasing magnetized Hematite, you must declare it as 'Magnetic Goods'. For air transport, products must pass a magnetic shielding test and may require specialized packaging (iron sheet lining) to prevent interference with aircraft navigation. Failure to declare magnets can lead to shipment seizure and heavy fines.

Prioritize Audited Suppliers on Made-in-China.com who have undergone on-site factory inspections by third-party agencies like SGS or Intertek. Review their export history to your specific country to ensure they are familiar with your local customs clearance requirements and tax codes (HS Code 260111 for ore or 710399 for worked stones).