Crystals & Gemstones
(This is an excerpt from a University Of Metaphysical Sciences course at www.umsonline.org,
please feel free to visit the school website)
Introduction
Scientific Uses of Crystals
History of Crystals
Crystal Balls
Crystal Skulls
Ritual Uses of Crystals
Using Crystals in Your Home Environment
Charging Water with Crystals
Programming Crystals
Cleansing Crystals
Wearing Crystals
Agate
Amber
Amethyst
Aquamarine
Aventurine
Azurite
Beryl
Bloodstone
Calcite
Carnelian
Celestite
Chalcedony
Chrysocolla
Citrine
Danburite
Diamond
Emerald
Flint
Fluorite
Geode
Gold
Hematite
Herkimer Diamond
Iron
Jade
Jasper
Jet
Kunzite
Kyanite
Labradorite
Lapis Lazuli
Malachite
Marble
Moonstone
Obsidian
Onyx
Opal
Pearl
Peridot
Quartz
Rhodochrosite
Rose Quartz
Ruby
Sapphire
Selenite
Smokey Quartz
Tiger's Eye
Topaz
Tourmaline
Turquoise
Written by Brooke Gibson
Introduction
Crystals and gemstones have a long history of use by humankind living on this planet. Crystals and gemstones are two different entities. The dictionary tells us that a crystal is a solid body having a characteristic internal structure and enclosed by symmetrically arranged plane surfaces, intersecting at definite and characteristic angles. A gemstone is defined as a precious or semiprecious stone that can be cut and polished for use as a gem. In recent times, we have seen a growing interest in the use of crystals and gemstones, for many different purposes-to bring health or wealth, purify a new space, cleanse, attract love, heal from disease, attune to ancient energies, and so on. In his book, Crystal, Gem, And Metal Magic (2002), Scott Cunningham writes, "Stones and metals are keys that we can use to unlock our potential as human beings. They expand our consciousness, enhance our lives, calm our stresses, and infuse our dreams with healing energies."
As we try to bring ourselves into alignment with Nature and discover our truest purpose for existing here on Earth at this time in history, crystals and gemstones can be helpful allies to us on our journeys of self discovery. After all, being in the mineral kingdom, they have existed for much longer on the planet than we, as humans, have. Just take a look at any natural history book and you'll discover that before even the plants and trees grew on the Earth, the mineral kingdom reigned here, being impacted, shaped, and formed by the changes in the body of the Earth throughout time. It is this ancient wisdom that crystals hold that we can tap into and begin to know and understand. Crystals are described by Melody in her book, Love Is In the Earth (1995), in this way, "Crystals are the blossoms of the mineralogical portion of the Earth; the recognition of the beauty and loving energies of these forms can greatly enhance one's personal development."
This course on crystals and gemstones in your Metaphysical curriculum is meant to show you how you (and those you help) can be positively affected by using these allies in your daily life. The course consists of many different sections that each look into a different aspect of crystals and gemstones. These sections include: the history of crystals and gemstones, scientific uses, a reference dictionary of crystals, ritual uses of crystals, how to take care of crystals, a discussion section, exercises for you to try with crystals, and a review of the books used to write this course.
The history section gives you, just as you might expect, the history of crystals and gemstones on the Earth. Topics such as the ancient civilization of Atlantis, whose inhabitants were said to have used crystals extensively, will be included. Also, we will explore the different types of divination that cultures have used crystals for in the past, such as crystal balls and pendulums. The mystery of the "crystal skulls" will also be explored.
In the scientific section of the course, we will delve into the use of crystals by scientists to advance technology for the benefit of humankind. Their uses in this regard are multiple: radios, watches, appliances, the measurement of energy fields, and the charging of crystals to hold information. The scientific uses of crystals are almost as abundant as the spiritual uses of these mineral helpers.
The reference dictionary of crystals and gemstones is a goldmine of knowledge, for it tells of the physical and spiritual properties of crystals, their astrological affiliations, locations on the earth, history of use by different cultures, and different types of a particular crystal (such as Tourmaline, which has many varieties). This is a great reference list to have as you explore your relationship with crystals, now and in the future.
The section on the ritual uses of crystals shows how they have been used by many different cultures in different areas of the Earth. In fact, crystals have been used by just about all cultures that have ever existed on the Earth, because they are found worldwide. This section explores how the same crystals and gemstones are used by different cultures for both the same type of rituals and for entirely different purposes. It may give you some ideas for how you can personally use crystals in your rituals.
How to take care of crystals is an important section for it shows that because each crystal is unique in its properties, each crystal has a certain, distinctive way that it likes to be cared for. Some crystals never need to be cleansed, by sage smoke or saltwater, and some crystals have a tendency to hold the energy that they come into contact with, be it positive or negative, and so they need to be cleansed fairly often. This section also explores what materials are best to use to cleanse your crystals, and where you can acquire these materials. Taking good care of your crystals is important, for it shows them you love and care about them.
The discussion section of the course poses questions that people frequently ask about crystals and gemstones and then answers those questions. A question might go something like, "How can crystals help on a global level?" or "What kind of spirits do crystals attract?" Anything could come up, so be prepared for some straight-shooting discussion in this section of the course.
The exercises section will give you some actual exercises to try with different types of crystals, including meditations, sleeping with crystals, cleansing and charging a crystal, using a crystal to bring about something physical or a desired change of some sort, etc. It will not be limited to just Quartz or Amethyst, or the big, well-known crystals, but will include some exercises with lesser-known, but powerful mineral allies as well.
The book review, which is the next section in this course, will give acknowledgment to those authors whose material was drawn upon for the writing of this course. There is a massive amount of information about crystals, and this list can help you know where to begin in building your crystal books collection. A concise review of each book will give you the gist of what the book is like so that you may decide if you want to check it out further.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Scientific Uses Of Crystals
Pyroelectricy and Piezoelectricity
There are a multitude of ways that crystals can be used to make our lives easier. Many ancient civilizations discovered the practicality of using crystals. From Piezoelectricity: An Introduction To The Theory And Applications Of Electromechanical Phenomena In Crystals (1946)by Walter Guyton Cady, we find that as early as the 6th century B.C. in Greece, an account was given by Thales describing a mysterious attractive power that arose when amber, known to them as electron, was rubbed.
What the ancients were experiencing when they rubbed amber was a type of electrical energy being produced. Pyroelectricity and piezoelectricity are two different types of energy that crystals can produce. The prefixes "pyro" and "piezo" are derived from Greek words meaning "fire" and "to press," respectively.
The word "pyroelectricity" was first introduced to the world in 1824 by a man named Brewster who studied many different crystals and their attributes. In Crystals And Their Structures (1969) by Arthur P. Cracknell, the definition of pyroelectricity is given as "the development of a spontaneous set of positive and negative charges at opposite ends of a crystal when it is heated."
In Love Is In the Earth (1995) by Melody, it is written, "the pyroelectric state activates expansion of the inherent energy when the crystal is heated, subsequently, when cooled, the energy contracts and remains within the structure. It has been known for centuries in India and Ceylon that tourmaline, when heated in the embers of a fire, first attracted ashes and then repelled ashes. Other crystals (e.g., topaz) will either attract or repel bits of paper, thread, or ashes. This phenomenon is due to electrical charges which accumulate on the surface of the crystal (i.e., heat producing an evident electrical energy.)"
Another property found in many crystals in called piezoelectricity. From Love Is In The Earth (1995), a definition is given, "piezoelectricity is the quality whereby electricity, and sometimes light, is produced via compression." From the more scientifically inclined book, Piezoelectricity (1946) by Cady, we have, "piezoelectricity is electric polarization produced by mechanical strain in crystals belonging to certain classes, the polarization being proportional to the strain and changing sign with it."
The commonality of pyroelectricity and piezoelectricity is that they are both types of electricity, or electric polarity. Their difference lies in how they are produced. Pyroelectricity is produced through a change of temperature and piezoelectricity is produced through pressure.
The electric energy produced by the crystal merges directly with the electromagnetic field that surrounds the human body. In Kevin Sullivan's The Crystal Handbook (1987), he describes this phenomenon. "Gemstones are believed to affect the body by influencing the etheric web that lies just outside the field of vision. Human bodies are surrounded by an electromagnetic field that is sometimes visible in special pictures known as Kirlian photographs. Gemstones also have their fields of electrical energy that, when worn on the body or carried in close proximity to a person, will affect the body of the person as well."
Using Electric Properties Of Crystals For Everyday Uses
The discovery of piezoelectricity spurred rigorous research to find out more about its potential, and in the late 1800's, a German man by the name of Woldemar Voigt produced a book that has since become a mainstay for workers in this field. The book, called Lehrbuch der Kristallphysik, led to further research of the electric phenomenon of crystals. When WW1 was on the verge of beginning, Langevin, a Frenchman, "conceived the idea of exciting quartz plates electronically to serve as emitters, and later also as receivers, of high-frequency sound waves under water…the ‘echo method' has become a valuable means of locating immersed objects and of exploring the ocean bottom." (Piezoelectricity 1946).
In Piezoelectricity we find that Langevin, through his study of piezoelectric, became the originator of the now common science and art of ultrasonics. In 1925, a discovery was made by G.W. Pierce, who found that the properties of gases and liquids can be investigated by an acoustic interferometer, which is a device also using piezoelectric principles.
Another important development in the scientific world came in 1918 as a result of further piezoelectric research by the author of Piezoelectricty, Walter Guyton Cady. Cady's experiments led to the development of the piezoelectric resonator, which can be used as a stabilizer, oscillator, and filter, and for which quartz was soon found to be the most suitable material.
Further information from Piezoelectricity reveals that in radio transmitting stations, resonating crystals are almost universally used, for direct control of frequency in the form of piezo oscillators or indirectly as monitoring devices. The use of crystals in radios is one of their most well-known uses.
Quartz's strong piezoelectric properties allow it to obtain frequencies much more constantly than is possible by electrical tuning alone. Quartz plates, cut according to special orientations, can help avoid certain disturbing effects on radio such as changing temperature upon frequency.
Quartz clocks are another common everyday item where crystal properties are utilized. According to Walter Guyton Cady in Piezoelectricity (1946), "[In a quartz clock] a vibrating quartz plate or ring replaces the swinging pendulum, resulting in a timepiece more constant than the best astronomical clocks."
Around the world, crystalline devices have been invented that serve our everyday needs. In Germany and Japan, devices have been invented that measure the explosive pressures and velocities, accelerations, forces, and vibrations of machinery. In the United States, much research was done with quartz and a substance called Rochelle salt, as well as tourmaline, which produced many advances in the field of acoustics. "By the ingenious adaptation of plates from Rochelle-salt crystals, microphones, telephone receivers, phonograph pickups, record cutters, and other devices have been made that are in most respects superior to their electromagnetic predecessors." (Piezoelectricity 1946).
Thus, one can see how crystals serve a variety of purposes in our human lives. Besides being transmitters of metaphysical healing energy, they also help make our most everyday items, (clocks and radios) function properly.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
History Of Crystals
Atlantis
Firstly, it is important to note that there are many, many theories about the Atlantean civilization, some with similar theories and some very different from one another.
The Greek philosopher Plato, student of Socrates, is the source of the world's oldest remaining written account of Atlantis, recorded circa 370 B.C. in a work entitled "Critias." In the work, Plato describes the earth at that time as being divided up amongst the gods (the Greek pantheon.) Poseidon, god of the sea, was ruler and overseer of Atlantis, where he appointed the eldest of his sons, Atlas the Titan, ruler of the island. The Greek word Atlantis actually means the island of Atlas. Plato further goes on to describe in detail the lay of the land on the island, where it was located in the ocean, and its eventual destruction that occurred in "one dayand night's time." The entirety of "Critias" can be read online at http://classics.mit.edu/Plato/critias.html.
Another Atlantis account is given by the "sleeping prophet," Edgar Cayce, who channeled the information aboutthe ancient civilization. This research comes from http://www.crystalinks.com/atlanteancrystals.html. "One of the most detailed descriptions of the Atlantean use of a mysterious instrument called the Great Crystal was given by Edgar Cayce, who mentioned it many times. The crystal, he said, was housed in a special building oval in shape, with a dome that could be rolled back, exposing the Crystal to the light of the sun, moon, and stars at the most favorable time. The interior of the building was lined with non-conducting metal or stone, similar to asbestos. The Crystal itself, the Tuaoi Stone, or Firestone, was huge in size, cylindrical in length, and prismatic in shape, cut with six sides. Atop the crystal was a moveable capstone, used to both concentrate incoming rays of energy, and to direct currents to various parts of the Atlantean countryside.
"It appears that the Crystal gathered solar, lunar, stellar, atmospheric and Earth energies as well as unknown elemental forces and concentrated these at a specific point, located between the top of the Crystal and the bottom of the capstone. The energy was used for various purposes. In the beginning, it was used as purely a spiritual tool by initiates who could handle the great energy. The early Atlanteans were peaceful people. As they developed more physical material bodies, they used the crystal to rejuvenate their bodies and were able to live hundreds of years while maintaining a youthful appearance.
"Later the Great Crystal was put to other uses. Currents of energy were transmitted throughout the land, like radio waves, and powered by these, crafts and vehicles traversed the land, through the sky and under the sea at the speed of sound. By utilization of other currents originating from the Great Crystal, the Atlanteans were also able to transmit over great distances the human voice, and pictures, like modern television. In the same manner, even heat and light could be directed to specific buildings or open areas, giving illumination and warmth by seemingly invisible means."
From an interesting website that explores the great mysteries of the world, http://www.world-mysteries.com, much information about Atlantis is available. The website posts facts and theories about such diverse "mystic places" as Easter Island, Machu Picchu, and Atlantis. Apparently, some discoveries have been made deep on the ocean floor that point to the existence of an Atlantean civilization. From the site comes the following excerpt. "In the modern Bermuda Triangle, on the ocean bottom where the ruins of Atlantis now exist, the energy build-up in the sunken and damaged Fire Crystals can periodically trigger dematerialisations of anything in the area."
This would be an explanation of the disappearance of the many ships that pass through this region of the world, even today. The website http://www.meta-religion.com also looks at the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle and its link to the crystals of the sunken island of Atlantis. "When Atlantis was destroyed it sank to the very bottom of the ocean. While the ruined temples now play host to multitudinous underwater creatures, the great Atlantean fire-crystals that once provided so much of the tremendous power and energy that was found in Atlantis long ago still exist. And they are still emitting strong energy beams into the universe…when the destruction occurred some of these fire crystals were partially damaged, which has resulted in them only being able to project their energy rays at random. It is said that each fire-crystal would have been at least twenty feet high and some eight feet wide!" (Wow, now that's a crystal.)
The website goes on further to say, "from time to time, the force field emitted by these damaged Atlantean fire-crystals becomes very powerful and any plane or ship coming within the influence of this force field disintegrates and is transformed into pure energy. Hence the inexplicable and mysterious disappearances that has very often been blamed on the area of the ocean known as the Bermuda Triangle!
The following paragraphs, all having to do with the Atlanten's use of crystals, are all from the website http://www.world-mysteries.com. It is highly recommended that if you are interested in further research of this fascinating subject matter that you go to the site, for there are many links to other sources of information, such as websites, articles, and books. "The Atlanteans used the knowledge of the crystal refraction, amplification and storage. It is known that a beam of light directed intensely and focused specifically on certain series of facets in a gem will, when it exits from the reflective plane of the gem, be amplified rather than diminished. And further, these amplified energies were broken down into a wide and sophisticated spectrum. The Atlanteans used the spectrum of this energy so as to be more useable, and for a specific purpose, much as one would use petroleum in terms of its various spectrum limitations for specific purposes.
"Extracting this and that and other things from the same basic substance, they used certain divisions of the energy for growing things. Others for healing, others for knowledge or increasement of substance. Other phases of spectrum for dissassembling molecule structures, and yet other combinations of these strata for building, assembling structures, as in chains; or producing matter, transmutation of matter and that sort. Their basic technology is still available in the earth plane in various locations.
"Crystals have the ability to transfer energy, to retain it, to maintain its intensity, to focus and transmit it over great distance to similar receivers as are equal or comparable to the transmitter. Thus, from one pyramid to another the Atlanteans, in a sense, transmitted energy. That when the face of the earth was directed toward a certain point, one pyramid would function to intensify and transmit energies to other pyramids which would then act as receiving devices and would disperse energy as it was needed. The opposite would be true, when that pyramid was at unfocusable point to their celestial alignment the others would transmit to those. Very simple method, very effective method. Though it brought them many difficulties later.
"Atlantean crystals were natural forms, but their growths were speeded up. Some specimens of clear quartz were produced to almost 25 feet high and 10 feet in diameter, had 12 sides and were used for storing and transmitting power.
"Small crystals, four to five feet high were infused with different colours, and had a varied number of facets, to be used for different purposes, such as healing, meditation, psychic development, increasing mental capacity, communications, powering generators, dematerialisation, and transport of objects, magnetic force fields, and travel at speeds undreamed of by our culture today.
"A number of crystals were shaped into inverted pyramids, with four to six sides, were infused with various shades of pink or rose, which created a light beam for surgery, by changing molecular structure, and for soothing pain, particularly in the delicate areas of the brain, the eyes, the heart and reproductive organs. Gold or yellow crystals changed colours to deeper hues in the presence of disease or bodily vibrational disorders. Ruby and purple stones helped cure emotional and spiritual problems; and black crystals, no longer in existence, were powerful protectors.
"For general rejuvenation and a return of vitality the ancient Atlanteans periodically meditated 15 to 20 minutes inside a circle of 6, 11, 22 or 24 stones of different types, holding a clear quartz in their hands, which acted as a control and focaliser.
"All these various crystals received their power from a variety of sources, including the Sun, the Earth's energy grid system, or from each other. The larger stones, called Fire Crystals, were the central receiving and broadcasting stations, while others acted as receivers for individual cities, buildings, vehicles and homes. On a higher spiritual level, rooms made of crystals were places where the Initiates left their bodies in the Final Transcendence, often never to return."
It becomes clear after doing research on the subject of Atlantis that there are many different opinions about what actually happened on the ancient island, how the inhabitants used crystals, and how it was eventually destroyed. The most ancient accounts come from Plato, who gave a very detailed description of the island itself. Much later in history, Edgar Cayce provided us with his channeled information about Atlantis. And there is speculation that the sunken island of Atlantis, with its "fire crystals" may be the cause of the mysteries in the Bermuda Triangle. Through this section of the course on Atlantis, you should have gained a broader understanding of the history of crystals and their use by ancient civilizations.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Crystal Balls
The crystal ball has always been a symbol of the occult, of hidden wisdom and fortune telling. In Love Is In The Earth (1995)written by Melody, she gives this synopsis of crystal balls. "Crystal balls [i.e., spheres] which have been contoured in the spherical configuration send energy in all directions and are the most unified of all shapes. These spheres facilitate smoother communication in group gatherings by rounding-off rough edges. They are often used as "windows" to faraway places-the past and future. They have been used in the activity of "gazing," as if from afar, in order to assist one in the evaluation of a present situation or circumstance. Crystal balls have been used to purify and to fill the gaps in the entire auric field when worn or held. Small spheres are also used as charms and worn or carried, to prevent and/or to ameliorate degenerative diseases. The fabricated and naturally occurring shapes exhibit identical properties."
Katrina Raphaell, in her book, Crystal Enlightenment (1985), says that Quartz crystal balls possess power that one must attune with and train to use. She recommends using them "during crystal healings [assisting] the healer to become more in tune with the person being healed."
There are differing opinions as to how exactly the crystal ball works in helping its user see the past or future. From Uma Silbey's book, The Complete Crystal Guidebook (1986), she offers this reasoning. "All objects, thoughts, emotions, events, etc., which appear on the physical plane first manifest as vibrations on the subtle planes (i.e., causal, mental and/or astral plane). The vibration in the subtle planes can be seen as the cause which sets into motion the events which are to follow on the physical plane. When you are seeing into the future you are actually sensing or seeing that subtle plane vibration and interpreting the physical plane event which is to follow from it." And as far as seeing into the past, she says, "Anything that has occurred on the physical plane affects the vibrations on the subtle planes, leaving its impression...When you are seeing into the past you are seeing this latter vibrational pattern. This is sometimes referred to as viewing the akashic records." In summary, "When you are seeing the past or the future you are just sensitizing yourself to and interpreting the vibrational or psychic "shadows" which precede and follow physical plane events."
Katrina Raphaell, in Crystal Enlightenment (1985), offers this explanation as to how crystal balls work. "When psychics use crystal balls in their readings, what they are doing is seeing an image of the person's aura reflected into the ball. Being able to interpret those images, it is possible to ‘see' and know many things about a person."
Now, the segment of the above quote that is most important to understand is the part, "being able to interpret those images." This is the part of the whole process of crystal ball reading that requires a certain amount of training and experience to grasp. Psychic potential does dwell within all of humanity, and if we are so inclined, we may awaken it, own it, and begin to work with it.
The rapidity with which you can start receiving impressions or visions depends on the degree to which you are developed in those necessary qualities. All crystal and other metaphysical work naturally develops those qualities that enable you to eventually read a crystal ball, and allow the method that is most suited to you to emerge. The method will find you, according to Uma Silbey in The Complete Crystal Guidebook (1986). Crystal Ball History
There is much in the way of history regarding the uses of crystal balls in different cultures around the world. An interesting passage is found in the works of Ibn Kaldoun, a Persian writer, born in 1332, who gives the following very acute analysis of the phenomena accompanying crystal-gazing. (Ibn Kaldoun, in Notices et Ext. de MSS. de la Bib. Imp.) This information comes from the website http://www.jjkent.com/articles/beryl-rock-crystal-balls.htm.
"The diviner looks at the surface fixedly until it disappears, and a curtain, like a mist, is interposed between him and the mirror. Upon this curtain are designed the forms he wishes to see, and this permits him to give indications, either affirmative or negative, concerning the matter on which he is questioned. He then describes his perceptions as he has received them." Kaldoun then goes on to describe the type of reality the diviner is locked into. "The diviners, while in this state, do not see what is really to be seen (in the mirror); it is another kind of perception, which is born in them and which is realized not by sight but by the soul."
From Ancient Persia to the highlands of Scotland, round gemstones were commonly known and used. The sceptre of the Scottish regalia is surmounted by a crystal globe, two inches and a quarter in diameter, and the mace by a large crystal beryl. In former times these stones were regarded as amulets and their use was traced back to the Druids. Sir Walter Scott tells us that in his time they were still known among the Scottish Highlanders as "Stones of Power." Description Of The Regalia Of Scotland (1877), by Sir Walter Scott, Bart., Edinburg, n. d.
Under the comprehensive chapter heading: "How to conjure the crystal so that all things may be seen in it," Paracelsus (1493-1541) declares in that "to conjure" means nothing more than "to observe anything rightly, to learn and to understand what it is." So, Paracelsus thought of crystal ball gazing as nothing particularly "magical" as understood by his definition of "conjure." He said further, "The crystal was of the nature of the air, and hence all things movable and immovable that could be seen in the air could also be seen in the crystal or speculum." The Hermetic and Alchemical writings of Aureolus Philippus Theophrastus Bombast of Hohenheim, called Paracelsus the Great trans. by Arthur Edward Waite, London, 1894.
Directions for the use of an Erdenspiegel, or "earth-mirror," are given in an old German manuscript written in 1658 by a Capuchin priest. Unterricht vom Gebrauch des Erdspiegels, (1658) The process is as follows: The mirror (crystal sphere) is to be set about two inches above a board, and the questions to be answered are to be placed beneath it. The scryer is recommended to place three grams of salt upon his tongue (yuck!), whereupon he is to repeat a prayer and cross himself. He now takes the mirror in his hand and breathes upon it three times, repeating the words, "In the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen." These preliminaries having been accomplished, the following prayer, or rather invocation, is repeated:
"O thou holy Archangel N. N., I pray to thee most fervently through the great and unsearchable name of the Lord of all Lords and King of all Kings, Jod, He, Vau, He, Tetragrammaton, Adonay, Schaday, receive my greeting and give ear to the humble petition which I offer in the name of the great and highest God, Elohim, Zebaoth, that thou shalt appear to me in the world-mirror, and give me knowledge and instruction in answer to my questions."
The strong religious tone of these directions for the use of the mirror and the fact that it is a priest who gives them, shows that there was a disposition to tolerate the employment of such "white magic." This information comes from the website http://www.jjkent.com/articles/crystal-balls-history-religion.htm.
From the Llewellyn Encyclopedia online, further crystal ball history can be found. The ancient Chinese and Japanese regarded quartz as the perfect gem. The artists who carved spheres were thought to be the most capable of spiritual and artistic purity. They considered the quartz crystal ball the heart or "essence of the dragon," symbolic of the highest powers of creation. The Chinese and Japanese shared the term sui ching for quartz, which means "water essence," the source of peace and power.
Tibetan monks called crystal balls the "windows of the gods," using them as holy objects of great power. The Taoists believed that looking into the crystal's clarity "crystallized" one's being, and they considered quartz the "gem of enlightenment." Buddhist altars included quartz spheres as an invocation of the "visible nothingness" that delineates the duality of the material and spiritual world.
Contemplation of this "visible nothingness" gave rise to crystal-gazing, which has been practiced since time immemorial. Crystal gazers use the spheres as windows to the unknown. http://www.llewellynencyclopedia.com/article/272.
Crystal balls are a fun and exciting way to attune with crystal energy. They can be quite expensive, however, so save your money if you believe it's a practice that you'd like to pursue. When visiting a crystal and gem shop, go to the crystal balls and tune into their energy. Put your hands around their spherical shape and discover if it feels like a tool you'd like to use for your practice.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Crystal Skulls
A great mystery surrounding crystals recently has been the discovery of thirteen crystal skulls of apparently ancient origins in parts of Mexico, Central America and South America http://www.world-mysteries.com/sar_6_1.htm. Some of these skulls are believed to be between 5,000 and 36,000 years old. Although research is still being done on the skulls, their origin remains unknown.
The most famous and well-known of all the crystal skulls is the Mitchell-Hedges Skull. The story of the skull's discovery is an interesting one and further illustrates the enigma of these crystals and what they mean to us.
"The man the crystal skull is named after, British explorer F.A. Mitchell-Hedges, apparently fabricated the entire account of how he discovered the skull while exploring in Belize with his daughter in 1924. The real story is that he purchased the skull at an auction in London, in 1943. The skull now resides with Mitchell-Hedges' daughter Anna in Canada. It is sometimes called the "Skull of Doom."
A fascinating feature of the crystal skull is that it is a virtually anatomically correct replica of a human skull. It weighs a total of 11.7 pounds and is slightly smaller than an actual human skull. When permission was granted in 1970 by the Mitchell-Hedges estate for studies to be performed on the skull, "the skull revealed a whole array of anomalies." (http://www.crystallinks.com/crystalskulls.htm) The researchers found that the skull and jaw had both been carved with total disregard to the natural crystal axis in the quartz. "Modern crystal sculptors always take into account the axis, or orientation of the crystal's molecular symmetry, because if they carve "against the grain," the piece is bound to shatter-even with the use of lasers and other high-tech cutting methods." (http://www.world-mysteries.com)
Also, the length of time that it would have taken people to create such a relic as the crystal skull is enormous. The laboratories in which the Mitchell-Hedges skull was carved could find no microscopic scratches on the crystal which would indicate it had been carved with metal instruments. The best hypotheses given for the skull's making is that it was roughly hewn out with diamonds, and then the detail work was meticulously done with a gentle solution of silicon sand and water. This lengthy process would have required hourly labor adding up to 300 years to complete.
The mystery of the making of this crystal skull could provide evidence of the use of some form of lost technology, the likes of which we have no equivalent today.
There are many differing opinions as to what the purpose of the skull might have been. Richard Garvin is the author of a book about the crystal skull and he believes the skull was designed to be placed over an upward shining beam. The result, with the various light transfers and prismatic effects, would illuminate the entire skull and cause the sockets to become glowing eyes. The researchers who studied the skull in 1970 tried this technique, and reported that the skull, "lights up like it was on fire."
Many eyes have gazed upon the crystal skull, with many different experiences resulting. People have reported the skull changing color, a dark spot forming on the right side of the skull and slowly blackening the entire skull, then receding back to clear. Others have witnessed strange scenes reflected in the eye sockets, scenes of buildings and other objects. Ringing noises have also been heard emanating from within the skull, and a distinct glow from no known light source has been seen surrounding the skull, similar to an aura, for up to six minutes.
As to what it might have been used for by those who created it, well, this no one can really answer. Frank Dorland, the leader of the studies performed on the crystal skull, has said, the "crystal stimulates an unknown part of the brain, opening a psychic door to the absolute. Crystals continuously put out electric-like radio waves. Since the brain does the same thing, they naturally interact."
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Ritual Uses Of Crystals
Crystals and gemstones can be used for a myriad of healing activities, including layouts on the body, as objects of focus for Altars, to hold and set intention for a particular day, week, month, or to achieve certain purposes (spell casting), as meditation aids, and for placing in one's house to aid in the movement of energy. Let's begin with the use of crystals for crystal healing on oneself or another person in a layout. One of the main ways this is done is through layouts, where crystals are placed at certain spots on the body, usually on the chakras, in order to reflect and generate forces that infuse the aura with light.
Purpose of Layouts
The purpose of practicing crystal healing is to assist yourself or those whom you work with to neutralize, balance and align the physical, mental and emotional bodies so that they can tap into their own inner resource of power and truth, according to the book Crystal Enlightenment (1985) by Katrina Raphaell. From Love Is In The Earth (1995) by Melody, we learn that there are no set procedures and no rules; the intuition is the teacher. (Laying on of stones) first affects an aligned connection between the perfection of the etheric body and the physical form and, subsequently, promotes the energy transfer from the minerals to the physical form. Crystals, as "the blossoms of the mineralogical portion of the Earth can greatly enhance one's personal development (Love Is In The Earth). Layouts, or laying on of stones, can be used to initiate healing, astral travel, travel to the center of one's being, and much more.
Preparation for Layouts
In the book Crystal Healing (1987) by Katrina Raphaell it is said that "before beginning a crystal healing it is important to clear your mind, center yourself, and focus attention within and on the crystals and stones that you will be working with." Also recommended is aligning oneself with the healing energies of the stones through meditation, becoming receptive to their frequencies. It is important to visually surround yourself with light and mentally affirm that you are working in tune with the energies of the stones to harmonize, balance, and healAs with any healing modality, the practitioner must remain grounded throughout the healing process and not get caught up in the increases in energy that usually take place.
Choosing Crystals for the Layout
Now, how do you decide which crystals to use for the layout? Certain types of stones are associated with the different chakras, so a study of the chakras themselves is recommended before beginning your layout. (See the UMS course on Chakras & Auras for more information). Once you've familiarized yourself with the body's energy centers, you can decide which crystals are appropriate to use for your healing.
A good layout for beginners is the Chakra Balance Layout, which comes from Crystal Enlightenment (1985)by Katrina Raphaell and can be done with any group of seven stones that correspond to the color frequencies of the seven chakras. It is to be done as follows:
Point a single quartz crystal at the top of the head; place an amethyst on the third eye, aquamarine at the throat, rose quartz at the heart, malachite on the solar plexus, citrine quartz on the navel and smoky quartz on the public bone. Stones should be placed in a direct line on the body. It is also recommended in the same book that "it is beneficial to work above the body with a small (two to six inches) generator quartz crystal to direct energy downward from the crown to the groin." The generator crystal is used similarly to a wand as a director of energy to the stones that have already been placed on the body. Any number of stones can be used in the Chakra Balance Layout.
Depending on exactly what the intention of the layout is, different stones may be more effective than others. For example, if the purpose of the healing is to direct suppressed emotion into verbal expression in order to be released, single terminated clear quartz crystals can be placed upon the sternum pointing towards the throat, directing the energy from the heart to the throat to be expressed. It is recommended that you, the crystal healer, remain open and sensitive to feel where energy is imbalanced, creating excess energy in one chakra and depletion in another. The generator crystal can be used to direct the excess energy to feed the depleted area. The Chakra Balance Layout is a good one to start with so you can get the feel of doing a layout. Its purpose is general balancing of the chakras, so it is fairly simple.
For more specific purposes, layouts corresponding to a certain chakra can be used. The following is a third eye awakener, from the book Crystal Healing (1985),by Katrina Raphaell.There are several major stones that can be placed at the third eye center to initiate altered vision. They are amethyst, gem silica, azurite and luvulite. Each stone, having its own special effect, can be used in combination with another to create clear vision through which the soul can see with the third eye. Amethyst is the main third eye stone that draws energy within for self-healing, and it is the main meditation stone used to bring personal peace through its clear purple ray. Gem silica is often used along with amethyst to stimulate the higher visionary powers, enabling the third eye to see beyond the illusions of time and space, into the realm of spirit. It emanates a vital blue-green ray into the mind.
Azurite is the most powerful stone to use when one is consciously ready and prepared to meet personal fears straight on. Because it often crystallizes, it has great penetrative powers into the subconscious. Azurite should only be used when one is ready to look into the locked and blocked areas of the psyche, for it is necessary for awareness to accompany its use. It is best used with amethyst at the third eye point to calm the mind while processing the cause and effect of fear patterns. Azurite is a thorough scourer of the mind, harmonizing both thought and feeling. When used with Gem Silica, the deep indigo of azurite is greatly aided by the clear sight of silica to help the soul's vision see through fear tendencies and to plant new seeds of thought.
Luvulite, when used at the third eye, can relay to the mind exactly why the soul is attracting experiences and what lessons are to be learned from them. It is one of the best stones to use when knowledge into the source of physical disease is ready to be revealed, worked with, and healed. Amethyst is the passive partner to luvulite, which can help bring into the mental realms the wisdom of the soul. These stones can be used interchangeably at the third eye center to still the mind, purify the thoughts attached to fear modes, open inner vision, and bring into understanding the soul's purpose behind all circumstances. They are also very powerful stones, and can initiate altered vision. Working with them requires a level of responsibility to be aware of their effects on oneself and other people. To do this, monitor the pulse rate, the rhythm of breath and subtle shifts in energy. Also, consciously use your breath or direct the other person to use their breath to help move the energy that comes up during the session. This exercise is an example of one which is focused on one chakra, whereas the first one was used to balance all the chakras.
There are so many possibilities for using crystals and gemstones to heal oneself and help others facilitate healing. There are specific stones that can be used to stimulate, balance, open up, or energize each chakra. There are also specific stones that are used for other ritual healing purposes, such as connecting with the energy of the sun, stars, or moon, connecting with the stellar gateway, the causal chakra, remembering past life experiences, working with nature spirits or devas, aligning one's consciousness with another person's, and many more uses.
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Using Crystals In Your Home Environment
Crystals can also be incorporated into the general design, or Feng Shui of your home. Feng Shui is, essentially, the art of placement. From the book Feng Shui (2002)by Gill Hale, we are told, "Feng Shui gives us advice on how to create environments in which we feel comfortable and supported." As you guessed, crystals can help us achieve this purpose. Many people hang crystals in their windows for decoration and to bring light into their space. From the book, we find that "crystals are used to bring a sparkle to stuck energy. Suspend one in a window and the light will shine through it, creating a rainbow effect on a wall or ceiling."
Certain crystals have long been known to be "dream helpers," many of which have been mentioned in the crystals reference section of the course. Amethyst is one such stone. From The Crystal Handbook (1987)by Kevin Sullivan, we find "much of the work of the subconscious occurs during dreaming, and tissue regeneration is at its peak during REM states." Why not use a crystal to help facilitate peaceful dreams and effective tissue regeneration? Keep in mind that only specific crystals are recommended for sleeping with, usually placed underneath your pillow, and there are some that serve entirely different purposes.
In Scott Cunningham's Crystal, Gem, And Metal Magic (1987), he gives a list of crystals that are projective and a list of those that are receptive. The projective stones, Scott says, are energizing and useful for healing, protection, courage, and self-confidence. In essence, they put out energy, whereas, the receptive stones are soothing and de-stressing, and are related to love, wisdom, compassion, sleep, and dreams. So, since this type of stone is not projecting energy out, interfering with the peaceful state of dreaming, their receptive nature allows them the opportunity to share your dream space, if you choose. Some examples of good sleep and dream stones are amethyst, azurite, crystal quartz, emerald, jasper, lapis, moonstone, pearl, peridot, sapphire, tourmaline, and turquoise.
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Charging Water With Crystals
One of the main components of most Pagan Altars is a chalice of water, usually placed in the West. Crystals can be used to charge the water, which raises the vibration and gives it greater healing capacities. From the book, The Complete Crystal Guidebook (1986) by Uma Silbey, she explains how to charge the water. "To charge water, use a clear glass container and fill it with distilled or spring water. Then choose a clear quartz crystal or any color stone to use with the water. Quartz crystal is a very popular gem stone to conduct this ritual, but it is by no means the only stone you can use. Clear crystals can be used as a preventative measure against ill health.
Before you use the stone, clear it. Take the crystal and drop it into the glass container of water. Sensitize your hands and center your focus upon the container. Hold your hands, palms down, about three or four inches above the top of the container. If your hands are sensitive and your concentration strong, you will feel a buoyant feeling between your palms and the water. Now, circle your hands, still palms down, clockwise three or four times over the top of the container. With sensitivity you will note an actual change in feeling between your palms and the water with the crystal in it. You now have actually changed the properties of the water to match those of the stone that you dropped in it. You can taste the difference. When you drink this water, it will affect your body in ways inherent to the stone.
The effects will be much stronger if you now place the container in the sunlight for an hour, a day or even three days. You can then drink it, or store it in your fridge for later use. Be conscious of the effects of various doses of water. Sometimes a few sips is all that is needed at a time. In acute cases of illness, you might want to drink a glass every 15 minutes. Experiment with yourself and check the results."
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Programming Crystals
Programming crystals refers to putting a certain energy or intention into the crystal that you can use at a later time to help you in your endeavor. It is defined in the book Love Is In The Earth as "the process of instructing the energies of the crystal in the method in which to use its qualities of transformation, stability, and attunement. (This precision in intent is beneficial training for those utilizing crystals. With the use of crystals, one may also become "crystal clear" in the use of personal energies)." This can be a very useful thing to do, as it helps ease our anxiety about a certain situation, be it an exam or a job interview. From Crystal Enlightenment (1985) we get this advice. "Hold the terminated point of a clear quartz up to the third eye center and visualize yourself as being calm, secure, confident, and spontaneously flowing with the situation. Project this thought form into the crystal and then sit quietly, holding the crystal, as you mentally reaffirm to yourself the positive reality you have created. This crystal can then be carried with you, to be held, looked at, or thought of during the event for which you have prepared. The crystal retains the programmed thought form and will emanate that vision back to you, acting as an assistant and friend."
Crystals can be programmed for all kinds of different purposes. If you are going to give a crystal to a friend as a gift, you can program into it good thoughts and prayers for that person's success, prosperity, and happiness. This impression will be programmed into the stone, which will emanate that energy for as long as it is with your friend. You can do the same type of programming into crystals and use them in the healing/purification of inanimate objects, such as a car, a new house, or work site.
In Love Is In The Earth by Melody, she gives another method of programming, which is as follows. "Formulate a precise phrase which accurately describes the nature of the programming (i.e. angelic/other-worldly communication, harmony, balance, love, special healing or protection for someone, etc.) Hold the crystal in the left hand (if left-handed, hold the crystal in the right hand), relax for several minutes, initiate circular breathing, and center the consciousness. Align the personal conscious awareness with the higher-self and/or other (pre-defined) appropriate other-worldly beings. Ask for guidance, protection, and assistance in the programming process. Open the center of consciousness and allow receptivity to flow through to the inner being. Repeat the formulated phrase 20-30 times in succession while visualizing and/or feeling the desired effect of the program. (Be open to higher assistance during this process.) As the phrase is repeated, an energy field will build and culminate in the energy pattern necessary to represent the desired program. While maintaining full awareness of the energy field, bring total awareness and consciousness to the area of the third-eye or the heart chakra and allow the self to feel the connection with it. Direct the energy field into the crystal for 30-60 seconds and allow the program to be transferred to within the crystal. Intuitive recognition will signal when the transmittal is complete. Detach consciousness from the crystal and allow the universal energies to act."
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Cleansing Crystals
There are many ways of cleansing crystals and they are very similar to the ways in which one would cleanse oneself when preparing for a ritual or ceremony. They include the following: bathing the crystal in sea water and allowing it to dry in the sunlight, smudging the crystal with smoke from sage, cedar, sweetgrass, incence, dragon's blood, or some other medicinal plant, placing the crystal in running water and leaving them overnight in the water, which gently washes away the impurities, using the element of earth to cleanse your crystal by burying it in the ground for a week or so, and then, after checking to make sure its been purified (intuitively), and if it has, wiping it off. This list provides you with a variety of options for cleansing your crystals, but there are even a couple more options that are a little more in depth. One comes from The Complete Crystal Guidebook (1986) by Uma Silbey. It is called the Breath Method (of cleansing). "Hold the crystal in your left hand with the tip pointing up. Hold the crystal with your left thumb on the bottom and your left first finger on the tip. Hold it about six inches outward from the center of your chest. Next, place your right thumb on any face of the crystal. As you do that, place your right first finger on the opposite face from the one under your thumb. Focus on the crystal, intending for it to become clear. As you do that, inhale through your nose and exhale forcefully through your mouth in the direction of the crystal. It is as if your breath carries your intention. Place your right thumb on the side next to the one which it covered before. Place your right first finger on the opposite face and inhale, forcefully exhaling into the crystal, intending it to be clear. Finally, switch your right thumb and first finger to the remaining two faces. Again, inhale and exhale into the crystal. It is now clear."
Other methods of cleansing are as follows: place your crystal on a large crystal cluster or on another mineral for 12-24 hours, beam white light from your third-eye region and surround the crystal, sweeping any negativity to a black hole which is filled with white light (the white light in the black hole transforms the negativity to a positive light energy such that the negativity is released from existence), soak the crystal in flowers (such as rose petals, orange blossoms, honeysuckle, etc.) for 24-hours, the flower's essence strips away negativity and cleanses the stone while the purity and energy of the flower is transmitted to the stone, soak the crystal in brown rice for 24-hours, where the rice acts to balance and center the energy, removing the negativity, while dissipating and transforming the negative to the positive, upon completion of the soak, the rice is also purified and good to eat. These cleansing ideas came from Melody's Love Is In The Earth (1995).
Scott Cunningham, in his book Crystal, Gem And Metal Magic (1987), gives another method of cleansing, which uses an altar as the cleansing foundation. "(This rite) is best done at sunrise or during the day. Fill a basin with pure water and place this to the west on the table or altar. Next, light a red candle and set this to the south. Light some incense and place this to the east. Place a dish or flowerpot filled with freshly dug earth to the north on the altar. In between all these objects, set the stone to be purified. When all is ready, still your mind and pick up the stone in your projective hand. Turn your attention toward the bowl of earth. Place the stone on it and cover with fresh earth. Say something to the effect of: I purify you with earth! Leave the stone there for a few minutes, all the while visualizing the earth absorbing the stone's impurities. Then remove it, dust it clean, and hold it in the incense smoke. Pass it nine times through the smoke, from the right to the left, saying words like: I purify you with air! Next, quickly pass the stone through the candle's flame several times, saying: I purify you with fire! The fire burns away all negativity. Now place the stone in the water and say this or in your own words: I purify you with water! Visualize the water washing it clean. Leave the stone in the water for a time, then dry it with a clean cloth and hold it in your receptive hand. Is the stone ‘clean?' If not, repeat this simple ritual as many times as necessary, until you are sure it has done its work. Afterward, store the stone in a special place. It is ready for use in magic."
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Wearing Crystals
One of the most simple and effective ways to utilize crystal energy is to wear them as jewelry. The main spots on the body they are usually worn around the neck, on the fingers, around the wrist, and in body jewelry in the navel, nose, ears, or any other feasible place. Crystals or gemstones that possess certain energies are worn by the person who is trying to acquire the specific energies of those stones.
In Crystal Enlightenment (1985), we find that "when jewelry is designed and worn consciously for healing purposes, the creations become works of art that empower the wearer. As crystals and stones are worn, their energies intermingle with the human electromagnetic field or aura…by increasing the subtle healing energies and light force around the body, greater personal power and balance is achieved."
The type of jewelry, as well as the shape, both influence how the jewelry will affect its wearer. Scott Cunningham in Crystal, Gem, And Metal Magic (1987) talks about the ring as being "a circle, symbolic of eternity, unity, reincarnation, and the universe." He explains that rings have long been a part of human history, from ancient Babylon to ancient Greece and Rome, where priests removed their rings prior to entering sacred space. The reason for this tradition is that rings, by their very nature, keep energy in the body; they are binding, rather than opening.
Therefore, rings are great for imbibing the wearer's energy with their own, but are not recommended as being helpful for sending out one's own energy, as is often done in magical rites. In spiritual rituals, in which we open ourselves to higher beings, rings were thought to block this process due, once again, to their restricting quality. (Cunningham) When purchasing or bartering for a ring, an important consideration should be the types of metals and stones used and the overall design of the ring. These factors will determine how helpful the ring will be for the manifestation of your personal desires and goals.
Necklaces are another popular form of jewelry and are really "simply a large ring worn around the neck." (Cunningham) The energy is one of binding oneself with the influence of the stones contained in the necklace. Once again, like the ring, the necklace is good for taking in the stone's energy, but not recommended for sending out your own energy, for the shape of the circle, when placed around any part of your body, is binding. The necklace can sit either close to the throat or hang down near the heart. Depending on which area is prevalent, the stones will affect the throat chakra, which governs our ability to communicate and speak our truth, or the heart chakra, dealing with emotions and attracting or strengthening love.
Earrings, according to Cunningham, were once worn to guard the ears from negativity and disease, later becoming a symbol for slavery, for slaves wore earrings marking their status. Being situated so close to the eyes, earrings are supposed to help strengthen weak eyes, especially when set with emeralds. As with all forms of jewelry, the types of stones and metals used should be intuitively considered. The question to ask is: Will they be helpful to achieving what you are trying to bring into your life or cultivate within yourself?
In The Complete Crystal Guidebook (1986)by Uma Silbey, she goes even further into the realm of ethical jewelry making and choosing for oneself. "The way a piece of jewelry is made, and particularly the way the stone is set, is a very important consideration. A stone should be set so that the method of setting does not cut off or impair the energy flow from the stone." This can happen if the base of the crystal is completely covered or if a stone has been drilled horizontally completely though the crystal, which cuts off the flow of energy through the crystal entirely. Also, Silbey recommends being cautious about obtaining crystals that have been glued into the metal fixture because they will, over time, have a tendency to fall out. So, the basic message here is "be careful about what you purchase." Everything should be considered: the type of stone, the type of metals used, who made your amulet and how ethical he or she is, and whether or not the stone is polished or unpolished.
Polished stones have their advantages, as do unpolished stones. From The Complete Crystal Guidebook (1986)we find, "A polished crystal tends to create a softer, more rounded field of energy. A crystal which is left in its natural form tends to be more laser-like in its projections." The brilliance of a crystal can sometimes be brought out by polishing it, but if you are more of a naturalist, you might like the look of a crystal "in the rough." One is not necessarily better than the other, so as with many decisions in life, it is not cut and dry. Using your intuition is always recommended to help you decide which piece of jewelry is right for you.
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Crystals & Gemstones Reference Section
Agate
Description: Agate is of the variegated class of chalcedony and usually exhibits colored bands or other markings. Some agate is not patterned. The appearance of the stone is waxy and soft.
Location: Agates form in many different parts of the world and are named either for their appearance or place of origin.
Spiritual Uses: Agates are grounding stones that help one to obtain a better physical and emotional balance. Agate balances both the yin-yang energy and the physical, emotional, and intellectual bodies with the etheric energies. It helps to stabilize the aura, and provides for a cleansing effect that both transforms and eliminates negativity, and also smoothes dysfunctional energies. It helps to develop a precise way of examining both the self and the circumstances relevant to the well-being of self.
Physical Uses: Agate can be used to stimulate analytical capabilities and precision, helping to nurture perceptiveness to situations and awakening the inherent talents we all possess. Also, it is used as a connector to the spiritual worlds, producing a feeling of inspiration and a connectedness to spiritual entities. Other uses include strengthening the sight, diminishing thirst, and promoting marital fidelity. They also lead to greater acceptance of the self and build self-confidence. Agates are an aid to the digestive system.
History: Agate placed in water for use in cooking and/or drinking is said to dispel sickness.
Different Types: angel wing agate, blue lace agate, botryoidal black agate, Botswana agate, moss agate, and many more.
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Amber
Description: Amber ranges in color from a pale yellow to orange or dark brown, and it can be opaque or transparent. Some of the darker clear types look like honey. It is composed of fossilized resin that formed millions of years ago from the sap of primeval trees. Often contained within it are mummified insects or plant matter, adding to its connection to early life on this planet.
Location: It comes from the Russian regions of the world, having been known and used by civilizations around the world, and was especially favored by the peoples of the Baltic coast.
Spiritual Uses: Amber is a grounding healer in harmony with the energies of the earth. It has protective qualities, and it has the power to add stability to one's life. Amber allows the body to heal itself by absorbing and transmuting negative energy into positive energy, and it also helps to calm nerves and to enliven the disposition. It has been used as a symbol for renewal of marriage vows and to assure promises. It is, for warriors, supposed to bring good luck. Among its many uses, it is a stone dedicated to the connection of the conscious self to universal perfection. It helps in the art of manifestation and also stimulates the intellect, as well as opens the crown chakra. It transmutes the energy of physical vitality toward the activation of unconditional love. Amber provides an energy to kindle the realization and subsequent response of choice, helping one to choose and to be chosen.
Physical Uses: With its ability to draw out negative energy, Amber allows the body to heal itself. It is, thus, recommended for chiropractors and masseurs. It cleanses the environment where it resides, excellent for use in birthing and re-birthing spaces for purification. Amber maintains a harmonious balance between opposing elements. It is helpful in clearing up depression and bringing about a positive mental state. It is a useful memory aid as well. Physically, it has been used to treat diseases of the throat, including goiter, as well as being used for kidney and bladder disorders. Amber has a direct connection to the endocrine system of the body, which can help to balance and stabilize the heart, spleen, and base of the spine centers, leading to the opening of channels and allowing energy to flow unhampered.
History: Amber has been known and used by civilizations around the world for thousands of years. Amber folklore is extensive: it was the first substance used by man for decoration and is found in Stone Age deposits as talismans or amulets. Amber was easily worked by primitive people and became a favorite object of trade and barter for the peoples of the Baltic coast. It was used in ancient times as a remedy similar to modern-day penicillin, which was ground and ingested or used as an elixir and drunk.
Different Types: Amber comes in many different shades, all generally yellow to reddish in color.
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Amethyst
Description: Amethyst is a variety of quartz, its color ranging from deep purple to pale lavender.
Location: The deepest hues of amethyst coloration are found in crystals from Uruguay, Siberia, Africa, and Colorado. The most common type, medium purple in color, comes from Brazil. The deep purple color of amethyst is found in some double terminated crystals from South Africa, and the very pale lavender variety of amethyst has been found in Oregon. It is found throughout the world in places as diverse as Bolivia, Argentina, Madagascar, India and Sri Lanka.
Spiritual Uses: The purple color of amethyst marks it as a crown chakra opening and enhancing crystal. When placed under a pillow, amethyst is said to ward off insomnia and nightmares, producing peaceful sleep and possibly healing, prophetic dreams. Amethyst is often worn during psychic or divinatory acts, and being a stone of wisdom, it allows the information received through the psychic vision to be utilized in the physical world. Amethyst facilitates transmutation of lower energies into higher frequencies of the spiritual realms. It can be used to protect against psychic attacks because of its transmuting qualities; it takes the "bad" energy and transforms it into positive, loving energy.
Physical Uses: Amethyst is a stone of peace, with no negative side effects. It is also known as a "stone of spirituality and contentment." It serves many purposes, including: calming fears, raising hope, lifting the spirits, and enhancing thoughts of the spiritual realms. It facilitates balance within one's physical, mental, and emotional bodies, and also between the physical and spiritual worlds. An interesting use of amethyst is in the situation of a debate, with the advantage going to the amethyst holder, because it helps one attain spiritual insight to be blended with intellectual reasoning. Among its other uses are: treatment of hearing disorders, reinforcement of one's posture, stimulation of the nervous system and endocrine glands, treatment of disorders of the nervous system, heart, stomach, skin, teeth, and digestive tract, re-adjustment and re-alignment of cellular disorders to eliminate distressful conditions, treatment of insomnia, and relief of pain from headaches or other disorders, stabilization of mental disorders, and when used as an elixir, the treatment of arthritis. Amethyst has, since ancient times, also been used to bring about sobriety, supporting and encouraging the one who is trying to free oneself of addiction.
History: Amethyst is a stone with much ancient magic usage, and was used two thousand years ago. In ancient Greece and Roman times, it was worn as a charm against evil, and magical cups were carved from amethyst to banish sorrow and evil from all who drank.
Different Types: "Rutilated" amethyst is a rare form of amethyst that combines the qualities of amethyst with the qualities of goethite. Cacoxenite is also combined with amethyst at times, bringing the qualities of the two together, and providing for a very powerful energy. Chevron amethyst exhibits one of the deepest purple colors of any amethyst, and along with possessing all the properties of amethyst as described above, the Chevron amethyst is a well-known "third-eye stone" that can help one have visions of unknown realms lying both in exterior worlds and within oneself.
Eliminating Negativity With Amethyst
This exercise comes from Scott Cunningham's Crystal, Gem, And Metal Magic (1987). Be prepared to let go of whatever amethyst crystal you choose to use for this exercise, for it is about letting go.
When emotionally upset, jilted by a lover, ending a relationship, failure or disappointment, stressed to the point of severe mental problems, or when in any unstable condition, go to a place outside where you can be alone. Hold an amethyst in your left hand (or right, if left-handed). Pour out all your feelings, your emotions, from your body through your arm, out your palm, and into the stone.
Feel every pain, every emotional low, every hurt. Send it all into the stone with the strong force of your innate magical abilities. When the stone is nearly bursting with negativity, throw it with as much force as you can muster. Throw it into the woods, the desert, a canyon, a lake, a sea, scream, howl, choke out a shout as your throw the stone. As your hand releases the amethyst, release the hurt as well. Know that it is in the stone, that it is outside you, that it is now alien to you.
Calm down, breathe deeply, meditate for a few moments. Thank the earth for its help, then turn around and leave your problems behind you. The earth will absorb the hurt, leaving the stone free, but never bring that stone into your life again. Wherever it landed, the earth will cleanse it. If anyone finds it, they will not be affected by your released negativity, for it will be cleared.
"Pearls and other jewels, as well as metals and plants, applied directly to the human skin, exercise an electromagnetic influence over the physical cells. Man's body contains carbon and various metallic elements that are present also in plants, metals, and jewels. The discoveries of the rishis [illumined sages] in these fields will doubtless receive confirmation some day from physiologists. Man's sensitive body, with its electrical life currents, is a centre of many mysteries as yet unexplored."-Autobiography of a Yogi, Sri Paramahansa Yogananda.
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Aquamarine
Description: Aquamarine is a pale blue-green color. It is a variety of beryl, which crystallizes prismatically, vertically striated and occasionally terminated with small pyramidal faces. Aquamarine has a structured-ness to its energy, resulting in balance and order. By its nature, it has an aligning effect on the chakras and a balancing effect on the structures connecting the physical and ethereal bodies. At one time, eyeglasses were crafted from Aquamarine because of its soothing influence.
Location: Aquamarine is found in the United States, Mexico, Russia, Brazil, and India.
Spiritual Uses: Aquamarine is worn or carried to enhance the use of psychic powers, allowing the psychic impulses to be heard and acknowledged by our consciousness. It brings a more spiritual level of awareness to its holder, enhancing the connection to the higher-self. Aquamarine stimulates, activates, and cleanses the throat chakra, which aids in communication of a higher quality than the mundane. For these spiritual reasons, aquamarine is also used to ease a sore throat on the physical level. It is much like the amethyst in its ability to sooth and calm emotional problems. Aquamarine, because it emits a gentle and compassionate energy, exhibits qualities of moderation, helping balance judgmental people with more tolerance, and helping people overwhelmed with responsibilities to have more of a sense of order. It is great for helping one to take responsibility for one's actions and for the situations one encounters. It is also an excellent meditation stone, helping to attune its holder to nature, and quieting the mind.
Physical Uses: Aquamarine has the ability to stabilize and harmonize unsettled surroundings, acting as a filter for unnecessary information to the brain, calming the nerves, clarifying perception, and strengthening the body's cleansing organs. Because it is cleansing and purifying, aquamarine is worn or rubbed on the body prior to magical acts for purification. Cleansing baths can also be made by placing a large crystal in the bathtub. Aquamarine is worn or carried as a protective amulet while sailing or flying over water and fishermen/sailors have used it for a long time to ward off danger at sea. It has been worn to relieve the pain of toothache and to cure illness of the stomach, throat, and jaw. The stone has also been worn to ensure good health, and to give strength and courage to its wearer. Because of these qualities, it was used as a protection for those going to battle. A stone with similar strengths to Aquamarine is Copper, which, when combined with Aquamarine and set in the sunlight for 8-24 hours will intensify the filtering capacities of both stones. Aquamarine is a good stone for teachers, counselors, and massage practitioners.
History: Aquamarine beads were found in ancient Egyptian mummy pits, and the stone was associated with the sea goddesses of old. Sea witches are said to cleanse the stone in ocean water under the Full Moon light. In medieval times, Aquamarine, like other blue stones, was believed to be a general tonic. It was also believed to procure the aid and favor of the spirits of light and wisdom, while dispelling the spirits of darkness.
Different Types: Aquamarine Phantom Crystal combines the qualities of Aquamarine and the qualities of a Phantom Crystal, which together aid in the activation of memory of past-life experiences. So, do use caution in your use of the Aquamarine Phantom Crystal. The Cat's Eye Aquamarine brings the qualities of the Cat's Eye mineral together with the qualities of Aquamarine. During discussions with others, this combination of energies has been used to stimulate the clairvoyant state.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Aventurine
Description: Aventurine is found in shades of blue, brown, red, and green. The green variety is generally recognized as the type with the most uses. Aventurine is a variety of mineral (usually quartz or feldspar) that is spangled with bright particles of mica, hematite, etc. The properties of whatever mineral Aventurine is mixed with is, naturally, included in the whole gemstone.
Location: It can be found in Russia, Brazil, India, and Nepal.
Spiritual Uses: Aventurine is, because of its green color, used to both activate and clear the heart chakra. The color green is also associated with calming troubled emotions and in speeding healing. Aventurine is an all-around luck stone, used by gamblers and for money-attracting magic.
Physical Uses: Aventurine influences both physical and mental planes, with the ability to take a negative situation and bring it into balance. This stone promotes a general state of well-being. Aventurine is a gentle healing stone, and can impart a positive impact in all aspects of life from youth into maturity. It is known to strengthen eyesight, and is worn, carried, or used in spells to increase perception, to stimulate creativity, and to enhance intelligence. It has been used in the treatment of disorders of the lungs, heart, adrenal glands, and the muscular and urogenital systems. Aventurine is also supposed to be beneficial to the thymus gland, the nervous system, and one's general state of mind. It can be placed anywhere on the body for healing purposes or simply carried around for daily activities to exert its subtle influence.
History: In ancient Tibet, Aventurine was used for nearsightedness to improve the wearer's perception. It was also used to stimulate creativity.
Different Types: When Aventurine is found in conjunction with Malachite, it can help clear mental or emotional blocks by bringing them to the surface of consciousness. Its use with Rose Quartz will increase the ability for empathy and love.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Azurite
Description: Azurite is a blue, copper-based stone. Its color ranges from light to deep blue and sometimes has a vitreous luster.
Location: It is found in abundance in Arizona, although there is evidence of its use as far from the U.S. as ancient Egypt.
Spiritual Uses: Azurite is referred to as the jewel of wisdom, esoteric literature referring to its ability to restructure gray matter and aid in developing embryonic babies in the womb. It is also known as a "stone of heaven" that provides for guidance through the third-eye, awakening the development of the psychic self. Azurite can help one balance past and future, by helping to release the past and gracefully anticipate and accept the future. It has long been utilized in magic to increase psychic powers. Placing the stone beneath one's pillow is supposed to help in prophetic dreaming. When divining the future, Azurite is a good stone to hold or wear. In meditation, it provides for relaxation and easy entry to the void state of "no-mind," allowing one to travel deep within the inner being and maintain depth while integrating the myriad of images encountered.
Physical Uses: Azurite aligns the chakras and attunes the structure of the physical body to the ethereal nervous system. It provides an unimpaired flow of energy and works well to dissolve energy blockages. Azurite can be used as a pendulum, its energy permeating the energy of the user and pointing to the problem(s) involved and/or the answers required. It has been used with success for treating disorders of spinal alignment. Also, it can be used in the treatment of circulatory disorders, to clear toxins from the body, to disseminate and disperse growths, and to stimulate the functioning of the synapses. The energy of Azurite is conducive to enhancing the flow of motion, so it can be used for any instance of stagnation in the body. It benefits the spleen, thyroid, bones, and skin. Azurite is an integral part of many crystal and gemstone layouts (patterns of crystals placed on the body by crystal healers).
History: Priests and priestesses of ancient Egypt used Azurite to enhance their spiritual consciousness. Edgar Cayce, "the sleeping prophet," told of the stone's ability to help him gain more mental control and attain a meditative state more easily. The ancient Mayans used the stone to stimulate and inspire the actualization of the mystical and psychic self, as well as using it to facilitate the transfer of information and wisdom through thought. In Native American Indian history, azurite has been used as a sacred stone, and in many other ancient civilizations, it has been a symbol of status.
Different Types: Azurite is usually found in association with Malachite, which is its cousin.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Beryl
Description: Beryl is found in shades of yellow, gold, white, blue, or green. We will be discussing the golden variety. Beryl crystallizes as prismatic crystals, sometimes being terminated by small pyramid-shaped faces and sometimes being striated.
Location: Beryl is found in the U.S., India, and Russia.
Astrological Sign: Moon
Spiritual Uses: Golden beryl is representative of purity on all levels of being. It can support the potential of each of us as people, giving us guidance. The stone has an ability to teach its user to cease doing the unnecessary, and aids in the filtering out of distractions and unnecessary stimulation. Beryl can help its user to lead a less stressful life by relieving stress and calming the mind. It has long been used to increase psychic awareness, and was called the stone of the seer. Its energy tells us that there is no obstacle too great for our confidence and conviction to resolve, and assures us that we can remain open to the solution. Its very nature has an opening effect, and it opens and activates both the crown and solar plexus chakras. This stimulates a balance between the intellect and spirituality. In ceremonial magic, beryl can be used to provide insight into conducting the rite.
Physical Uses: Like aquamarine, Beryl is related to the sea, and can be worn to give protection against storms while on the water, as well as guarding against drowning and seasickness. It has been used physically for treatment of disorders of the heart and spine, and can also be useful in the treatment of concussions and damage to the head. Beryl is a lover's stone, being used to strengthen their relationship, and for single folk, it is worn to attract love. Another of its many uses is to send energy into the body, especially useful for times of studying, when it helps to increase retention of information. For healing, beryl is excellent for relieving liver ailments, swollen glands, and diseases of the eyes. It is also used for the elimination organs, such as kidneys and intestines. It is believed by gem healers to help strengthen the circulatory and pulmonary systems, helping them to resist toxins and pollutants. Beryl, especially in conjunction with Lapis Lazuli, is used as a sedative by some. History: In the fifth century in Ireland, Beryl spheres known as specularii were used by scryers. Scrying with beryl should only be practiced during the Waxing Moon for best results because of its associations with lunar energy. It can be worn or placed on the altar during Full Moon rituals. In the sixteenth century, beryl was worn to help win debates and arguments while still causing its bearer to be well mannered and amiable. In the thirteenth century, the stone was carried to attract friendship and make peace with enemies. The stone was reported back in 1220 by Arnoldus Saxo to give help against foes in battle.
Different Types: Beryl comes in many different colors, such as red and green.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Bloodstone
Description: Bloodstone is a variety of quartz occurring in massive formations. It is a green chalcedony flecked with red spots resembling drops of blood, where it gets its name. Its green color makes it a good stone to use in wealth, money, and business matters.
Location: Bloodstone is commonly found in Russia and India.
Astrological Sign: Aries, Pisces, and Libra, and the Planet Mars
Spiritual Uses: Bloodstone is a "stone of courage," used to awaken and induce balance with the energy vibrations of the base, navel, sacral, and heart chakras. It helps its user to recognize the benefits of turmoil, which happens prior to perfection, and to accept the change in energy fields. It is a stone that can connect one to the centering and grounding energy of the heart, and is very conducive in helping one overcome any anxiety that is felt when the energies are re-aligning. Bloodstone tells us to "be here now," and it helps us renew ourselves on all levels. The inherent strength in the stone allows for it to transmit practical guidance to its user, it also allows for unification of the energy bodies to advance the attributes of harmony, adaptability, and strength. Bloodstone can help you to demonstrate unselfishness and idealism, to improve your talents and abilities, to enhance creative efforts, and to support the decision-making processes. Using Bloodstone during meditation or contemplation can help you toward forming a more direct union with the Divine. It also has been used to facilitate admittance to the spirit realm of the ancestors, and provides for an open channel of communication with those encountered in these realms.
Physical Uses: The most well-known use of this stone is to halt bleeding, having been frequently carried by soldiers in battle. When pressed on wounds, the stone caused the bleeding to stop, although this might have been just because of the pressure when applied. It has been used to treat conditions of the spleen, to purify the blood, kidneys, bladder, intestines, and liver. It has also been used in the treatment of leukemia, as well as for failing eyesight, lung congestion, and rashes. Bloodstone that is worn lends courage, calms fears, and eliminates anger, long having been used in spells designed to secure victory in legal matters. Physically, it is said to benefit bones, heart, and reproductive organs, all of which are blood-rich. This stone stimulates courage and is vital and life-giving to its user. History: Bloodstone was used by the ancient Egyptians to lessen the wrath of kings and despots and to counteract tumors and growths. It is said that a Bloodstone kept in the cash register draws money, and when carried in the pocket or purse, attracts wealth. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a farmer's talisman, which was worn during planting to increase the crop's yield. To prevent miscarriage, and to ease childbirth, the stone was favored by women, who would hang it on their arms. Bloodstones engraved with the figure of a bat were used in the thirteenth century and worn by magicians to increase the effectiveness of magical spells and rites.
Different Types: Bloodstone is also known as heliotrope.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Calcite
Description: Calcite is an abundant crystal which comes in many colors, shades of white, gray, green, yellow, black, blue, brown, or red. It is naturally colorless or white, becoming colored only when other compounds are mixed in with it. Crystallized forms of calcite include masses, grains, stalactites, scalenohedrons (twelve-faced crystals) and rhombohedrons (six-faced crystals).
Location: Some spectacular calcite outcrop locations include the Verdon Gorge in France; Malham Cove in North Yorkshire, England; the Ha Long Bay National Park in Vietnam; and the Cumberland Plateau, Tennessee. Calcite commonly occurs in cave deposits and in veins rich in carbonate minerals and quartz. Some popular calcite cave deposits in the United States can be seen at Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico; Mammoth cave, Kentucky; Wind Cave, South Dakota and numerous others. Outstanding "dogtooth spar" varieties can be found at Pugh Quarry, Ohio; Cornwall, England and Elmwood, Tennessee. "Iceland spar" varieties can be found in Eskifjord, Iceland and in Mexico.
Astrological Sign: Cancer
Spiritual Uses: Calcite has a very unique optical quality called double refraction. If a line is drawn on a piece of paper and a piece of calcite placed over it, the line will appear to be doubled when you look through the stone. Because of this property, Calcite is used to "double the power" in rituals, and is placed on the altar or worn during the ritual. It is useful in multi-directional energy distribution, and results have shown that energy directed towards the center of the crystal separates and returns at twice the intensity (again evidence of its "double power"). It is an excellent stone to use while studying the arts and sciences. When placed upon a certain chakra, Calcite has not only cleared and activated that chakra, but also had a clearing effect for the other chakras.
Physical Uses: In the building industry, calcite is used as a component in cement, a filler in paint, and as a structural and ornamental stone. Crushed calcite (lime) is used to mark the lines on a playing field. Clear crystals were once used to make polarizing prisms, and they are still used today in optical instruments. Calcite is very beneficial for cleansing the organs, bones, joints, and for sharpening the memory. Carrying Calcite is a great help in boosting your memory, and it can also help its user draw more insight from personal experience and books making the information easier to remember. Because Calcite helps to calm the mind in this way, it can help one to better decide which parts of one's life could benefit from change. Calcite is an energy amplifier and when placed under pressure, releases electrical impulses.
Different Types: Clear Calcite: can be used in spirituality rituals, perfect to use as a focus of contemplation during meditation, Pink Calcite: is centering, grounding, and calming, and is used in love rituals, Blue Calcite: is a healing stone when worn on the body, and is worn during purification ceremonies, Green Calcite: draws money and prosperity to the household, and is especially effective when surrounded by flaming green candles every morning for a few minutes, Orange Calcite: is a protective stone that lends energy to the body when held.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Carnelian
Description: Carnelian is one of the most available and desired members of the Chalcedony family, occurring in the uniform color of red, orange, or red-brown, or sometimes translucent or clear.
Location: Carnelian is a form of Chalcedony, which is the microcrystalline form of Quartz (Silicon Dioxide). Because Quartz is the most common crystal on Earth, deposits of Carnelian are found throughout the world. The most famous sites are in India, Brazil, Uruguay and Japan. The Deposits are usually found in the lower temperature and lower pressure zones near the Earth's surface. It is also the national gemstone for Norway-Sweden. In the United States, deposits are located in Texas, Maryland, Florida Colorado and North Carolina.
Astrological Sign: Aries, Leo, Virgo, and Capricorn
Spiritual Uses: Carnelian is used to counteract doubt and negativity, also bringing patience. It strengthens astral vision and protects its user against envy, fear, and rage, helping to banish sorrow from the emotional body. Carnelian has a strong connection to the earth and this energy can help its user to feel "at home" in their surroundings and in tune with the energy of the earth. The stone has a stimulating effect, especially on energy that is stuck and needs to be moved along. Its stimulating effect also can increase curiosity, or inquisitiveness, which can lead to initiative and possible prosperity. It can be used to dispel apathy, indolence, and passivity. Carnelian can be a good stone for those who meditate for its grounding properties, and its ability to help its user feel settled and secure on a physical level, allows for exploration on a spiritual level. Carnelian is said to "cut to the chase," helping its user sort through information and get to the heart of the matter being considered. It allows its user to take control of their life and choose the direction they need to move in.
Physical Uses: This stone can assist one in drama and in theatrical pursuits. It has a strong influence on the reproductive organs, probably because of the stone's connection to the earth, which is itself a major fertility symbol. Carnelian is said to stimulate sexual impulses. It has been worn to prevent skin diseases, nose bleeds and all blood diseases, insanity, and as a tonic health-stimulant. For public speaking, which is a fear for many people, Carnelian can be worn to bolster courage and give the speaker eloquence. It can also be used in the treatment of neuralgia, kidney stones, gall stones, colds, and pollen allergies. As an elixir, the stone has been used to help heal cuts and abrasions. As an aid in the amelioration of disorders of the pancreas, spleen, and pancreas, Carnelian can be a powerful stone ally.
History: Carnelian was worn in ancient Egypt on the hand to still jealousy, anger, envy, and hatred. Armenians in the 17th century believed that if the stone was powdered and taken as a potion, it would excite joyful emotions and banish all dark thoughts. Wearing Carnelian was, as known through folklore, supposed to help those who had a weak voice or were timid speakers. This was thought to work also because the stone is a warm color, which is said to give wearers the courage they needed to speak boldly and with conviction. Carnelian was further believed to keep away evil and the devil. It is mentioned in the Bible as a stone included on the breastplates for priests and soldiers. In Renaissance times, the stone was engraved with a warrior or sword image, and, when placed in the home, was supposed to guard the house from disaster.
Different Types: When combined with Chlorite and Ruby, Carnelian has been used to dispel psychic attacks, assisting spirits bound to the earth to leave a location. These three minerals are also used to protect their user and their user's environment from the return of negative energies. To facilitate connection between the higher self and the physical self, Carnelian is combined with Kammererite.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Celestite
Description: Celestite ranges in color from blue, white, yellow, orange, red, and red-brown.
Location: The blue variety is found in Madagascar. The world's biggest Celestite deposits are found in Mexico, Spain, Turkey, and Iran. It can also be found in China, Russia, Nova Scotia, and Southern England, as well as in Pennsylvania and Texas, USA.
Astrological Sign: Gemini
Spiritual Uses: Celestite is used to remove stress from the physical form, and to relieve headaches and tension in the body. It is good for mental activities, for analyzing complex ideas and reality on the physical level. It is also supposed to allow one to both recall and acknowledge one's spirituality and Divine talents. For musicians and artists of all disciplines, Celestite is a wonderful helper for inspiration and attainment of bliss. In days of despair, Celestite can bring calmness and harmony to one's life, providing also for the advancement of one's avocation. Dismissal of worries, freedom of movement, and clarity of the intellect are all qualities enhanced by this stone. It can, among its varied spiritual uses, promote a pleasant disposition to its user, providing for fluency in communication, (especially the blue variety- blue being aligned with the throat chakra). Celestite assists psychic endeavors, such as accessing the angelic realms to discover insights into life, and bringing lucidity and articulate communication of messages received. Its name indicates that it has connection to the celestial realms, and it seems that this is true; the stone contains an innate wisdom within itself which becomes accessible to its user and can help in an understanding of aspects of perfection and patterns in one's life. Also it helps in the attainment of desired ends and means. It is a stone of astral travel and can assist in dream recall.
Physical Uses: It has been used in treatment of eye disorders, to balance mental dysfunctions, and to increase one's range of hearing. The stone is also worn or carried to create eloquence and to promote compassion for the earth and all of our fellow beings. It facilitates the elimination of toxins in the body, including negativity and destructive tendencies. It has been used to ease digestive disorders and for treatment of a dysfunctional intestinal system. In general, Celestite is an excellent stone for healing, the blue variety being especially able to transmute pain and chaos into light and love energy. It's also an ideal stone to give to someone special in a loving spirit. The stone has powers of compassion, eloquence, and healing.
Different Types: Celestite is found in a variety of colors.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Chalcedony
Description: Chalcedony is either transparent, translucent, or opaque and is considered to be a member of the quartz family. It is the head of a family that includes Agate, Carnelian, Jasper, Tiger's Eye, and Onyx. It occurs in many forms including in the lining of rock cavities, as stalactites, and in botryoidal form. It can be blue, pink, or gold.
Location: It is found in the United States, Sri Lanka, Russia, Mexico, and Brazil.
Astrological Sign: Cancer and Sagittarius
Spiritual Uses: Chalcedony helps one to ease self-doubts and banishes fear, hysteria, depression, mental illness, and sadness. It is cleansing in nature and is useful in improving the assimilation of minerals and to help dissipate negative energy and build-up of materials in the veins. It is a stone symbolizing benevolence and good will, the benevolence stemming from the nurturing energy the stone carries. It enhances such good qualities as generosity, responsiveness, and receptivity and alleviates hostility, irritability, and melancholy. Chalcedony promotes calm and peaceful feelings when worn as a pendant or held in the hand. It makes its user more reflective, bringing on an enthusiastic perspective and open personality.
Physical Uses: Chalcedony is a protective stone, guarding its bearer during times of political unrest and while traveling. Its protection further extends to the psychic realm, warding off psychic attack and negative magic. It is also used to drive away nightmares, night visions, and fear of the darkness; the user puts the stone under the pillow or wears it on the body. For good luck, an arrowhead made of Chalcedony can be worn or carried. The stone is said to foster the maternal instinct and aid in lactation. It is also said to cure varying forms of dementia, to increase mental stability, and to rectify senility. Being cleansing by nature, Chalcedony will promote healing of open sores, and the crystal needn't be cleansed afterwards because of the cleansing qualities it holds in itself. It absorbs and dissipates negative energy, not allowing it to be passed on. The stone is said to ease bad dreams and all eye-related problems, gall bladder problems, and diseases of the bones, spleen, blood, and circulatory organs.
History: In the 16th century, the stone was prescribed by practitioners of magic to dissolve illusions and fantasies and for this purpose, it was pierced and hung around one's neck. Chalcedony was engraved with the figure of a man with his right hand upraised and this was worn as a necklace for success in legal matters and for general health and safety in Renaissance times. It was also used in ancient times in the construction of chalices, which would be lined with silver, and the two minerals together would protect the liquid from contamination, an important quality to exert in times when poisoning was a common way to get rid of someone. It was said by a man named Gonelli in 1702 that the alkaline quality of the stone dissipated the evil humors of the eye, removing the diseased condition causing the apparitions; Chalcedony was said to have the ability to "drive away phantoms and visions of the night."
Different Types: Chalcedony sometimes contains a small amount of opal.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Chrysocolla
Description: Chrysocolla crystallizes in the form of masses, layers, crusts, botryoidal configurations, and microscopic needle-like crystals. Its colors range from shades of blue or green to occasionally blue or black. Chrysocolla is sometimes found in a gemmy state, which is known as gem silica. It resembles Turquoise and shares some of the same properties.
Location: Chrysocolla is mined in Mexico, Zaire, Chile, Russia, and the United States.
Astrological Sign: Gemini, Virgo, and Taurus
Spiritual Uses: Chrysocolla revitalizes and calms the base, navel, and solar plexus chakras. It can help ease emotional heartache and to give renewed strength and balance. Its green color corresponds to the heart chakra, and it is worn or used in spells to attract love. It can help one to become attuned to the Earth and is a stone of peace, a soother of the emotions. It can help direct us to the way that we can assist in helping the Earth heal, and can assist us in communication with the spiritual forces of the Earth (nature spirits, fairies, etc.) The stone can produce great inner strength, heart-centered, helping to sustain and maintain one's self during stressful situations. It is a promoter of physical vitality, and stimulates the intuitive qualities of one's character.
Physical Uses: Arthritis and other bone diseases are treated by gem healers using Chrysocolla, and the organs of the digestive tract are also aided by the stone. Ulcers can become less problematic and hypertension and stressful conditions due to fear and guilt lessened. Chrysocolla can help develop personal confidence, making its user feel more comfortable speaking the truth. In one's home and the environment, Chrysocolla can help in purification, working to eliminate negativity from within its user. It imparts an energy that helps stabilize the home. By providing for insight into that which is necessary to the physical body, intellect, and emotions, Chrysocolla helps one to attune to the perfection of the universe. Physically, it can help to regulate the pancreas, to assist in the regulation of insulin, and to balance the blood sugar. It can also strengthen the muscular structure of the legs, arms, abdomen, and back. Chrysocolla has also been used in the treatment of blood disorders, such as leukemia, and cellular inadequacies. It has been shown to help with disorders of the lungs, such as asthma and tuberculosis, and has helped in re-oxygenating the cellular structure. It seems actually to furnish greater lung capacity and to instill increased breathing capabilities. Infrared light can increase the power of Chrysocolla, with a fifteen minute exposure usually being long enough.
History: The stone has been used by musicians, possibly because of its reputation for having healing properties for the lungs and throat. It has also been used to drive off unreasonable fear and illusions, the user holding it in their hand.
Different Types: Chrysocolla comes in different colors and is also found in a gemmy state which is called gem silica.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Citrine
Description: Citrine is a member of the quartz family of crystals, and its color ranges from yellow to golden brown to burnt amber. It is usually a pale golden yellow.
Location: Citrine is not a commonly occurring crystal. Most of the world's supply of Citrine comes from Brazilian of Rio Grande do Sul, whose Serra and Ira mines produce a combined 400 kilos per month of hammered goods. Other sources include, France, Madagascar and Russia. Deposits in the United States are in North Carolina, Colorado and California.
Astrological Sign: Leo and Virgo, also Gemini, Aries, and Libra
Spiritual Uses: Citrine quartz is an energizing and highly beneficial crystal with an intense affiliation with the Sun. Like the Sun, Citrine has qualities of being invigorating and positive. Its brilliant color can surround and fill everyone, energizing every aspect of life. It is one of only two stones on the Earth that does not accumulate and hold negative energy, but dissipates and transmutes it, working out problems on the physical and subtle levels. Because of this, it never needs cleansing. This mineral is good for balancing yin-yang energy and for aligning the chakras with the ethereal plane. It is also a powerful stimulant for both mental focus and endurance. Use Citrine when working on the root chakra, where it can deliver both comfort and optimism and can help its user to part with very base-level fear. It allows for clarification of problems related to intellectualism and emotions. Besides the root chakra, Citrine is also stimulating to the crown chakra, allowing for our intellects to grasp total perfection, and this property of the stone promotes problem solving, recognition of resolutions to mental worries, and allowing one to "be in the now." It stimulates openness and accelerates the wakening of the mind. Citrine can be used for clearing the aura and for re-aligning and integrating the aura with the physical form. It is a stone of clarity, with its affiliation with the sun and warmth, and it is this quality that makes the stone useful for dispelling any "muddy" areas of the aura or physical body. It can help us to stabilize emotions, to encourage us to look past the present situation and into the bright future, and to dispel anger.
Physical Uses: Citrine's energy can increase motivation and promote physical activity, which can in turn improve digestion and help the cleansing organs of the body. It also works to detoxify the blood. The positive energy that comes from this stone is particularly helpful to persons involved with education or business, and for use in interpersonal relationships. It is an excellent stone for producing cohesiveness between groups of people, and for smoothing out problems. Its action can be compared to that of the cutting edge of a sword, penetrating for problems and splicing off solutions. Citrine can aid in digestion, can assist in the treatment of digestive disorders, and can promote the circulation of the blood. It has also been used to facilitate the diminishment of growths and to treat degenerative disorders. Citrine can also be used to balance the thyroid, activate the thymus, and to increase visual abilities.
History: The Celtic people of Scotland call the dark Citrine crystals Morion and Cairngorm. It is said that Citrine was one of the stones used in the breastplate of the high priest.
Different Types: Citrine is sometimes found in a combination known as Citrine/Smokey Quartz, which has been found in Brazil. This stone is a powerful healer, the Citrine acting as a cleanser for the energies of the Smokey Quartz, while the Smokey Quartz provides grounding. A bright and distinct energy comes from this combination of stones and can be applied to all aspects of healing.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Danburite
Description: Danburite crystallizes in the form of prismatic crystals resembling topaz in configuration. The color ranges from colorless, to yellow-white, pale wine-yellow, dark wine-yellow, to yellow-brown.
Location: Danburite is found worldwide, in such varied countries as: Australia, Austria, Bolivia, Canada, Franc, Germany, Iran, Italy, Japan, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Norway, Russia, Slovak Republic, Switzerland, Tajikistan, United Kingdom, and the UnitedStates.
Astrological Sign: Leo
Spiritual Uses: Danburite's pink color is akin to the heart chakra and can bring self-love to its user. Danburite, when it exhibits a "Buddha Crystal" configuration, can sometimes have the effect of bringing aspects of enlightenment and love toward realization, intensifying all of the attributes of the stone and assisting one in actualization of that which will promote ease of traveling one's path.
Physical Uses: This mineral helps people to get along well with others. It also encourages its user to "let your light shine." Bringing both stimulus and responsiveness to the user, Danburite has powerful effects on the intellect. It can help rectify attitudes that are disharmonious, allowing one to maintain personal identity while flowing with the structure of the world. Physically, Danburite can be used to provide catalytic action to the muscular structure and to facilitate motor capabilities. It can also be used to treat ailments of the gall bladder and the liver. It can help one to add weight to the body if consciously directed and it further assists in the removal of toxins from the body.
Different Types: Danburite can be found in a configuration known as "The Buddha Crystal." The Buddha Crystal is recognized by the existence of an illusion resembling "Buddha-Sitting." By looking through the main face of the crystal, to the back of the crystal, then to the position at the top of the back of the crystal, the illusion can be located. There is a line in this location resembling a throne, upon which there is a figure similar to the "Buddha-Sitting" position. This stone has been used to stimulate meditation, a "no-mind state." It holds within itself an omnipotent energy that stimulates the pineal gland, induces the receipt of information from the higher-self, and brings tranquility and harmony to all situations. It is a stone of Shangrila, and is said to have been used to bring the harmony and accord of this civilization to those who share the energy. It has been used to contact and to help transfer information from the elders of the ancient civilizations of India, Tibet, and China.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Diamond
Description: Diamonds have a clarity that is unparalleled in the gem world. They are considered by some people to be the purest expression of gemstones, mostly because of their ability to refract the entire light spectrum. They will phosphoresce when exposed to radium, polonium, or actinum, and are without question the hardest substance produced by nature. They are composed of pure carbon and are formed by thousands of years of intense pressure and heat.
Location: Diamonds can be found world-wide, in Africa, Australia, Brazil, China, India, Russia, South America, Canada, and Tanzania. Most of the world's supply of diamonds are controlled by the massive jewelry company, DeBeer's, who's main operation outpost is in South Africa.
Astrological Sign: The Sun
Spiritual Uses: Diamond is frequently combined with other gems or crystals for its ability to amplify the energy of whatever it comes in contact with. If not combined, but worn alone, Diamond will amplify the energy of the wearer, positive or negative. If one has a positive attitude, one can learn a great deal from Diamonds, including balance and the ability to blend all the aspects of life into a pure and cohesive unit, that can, in turn, amplify the energy state surrounding you. When worn, Diamond promotes spirituality, even ecstasy, the shaman's ritual state of consciousness. In meditation and spiritual purposes, it is often used. One such spiritual use for the Diamond is to increase one's physical strength. This is because of the Diamond's hardness and associations with the Sun.
Physical Uses: Because of their hardness and purity, diamonds are as much in demand for industrial uses as for jewelry and gemstone healing. They are a symbol of power and wealth and are highly coveted. It has been said that the blue light within the color spectrum of a Diamond is beneficial for glaucoma, and this being because of Diamond's ability to refract all colors without diluting or filtering them. Diamonds are also said to be beneficial to the brain. When worn or carried, the Diamond promotes self-confidence in relations with the opposite sex, and is said to be potent for relieving or eliminating the causes of sexual dysfunction. The diamond is a cleansing, purifying, and releasing stone in sexual matters, and it can help remove cultural blockages that have kept women from experiencing a truly orgasmic state. Another physical use of the Diamond is for protection, this quality owing to its flashing nature. For best results, the diamond should be faceted into a six-sided cut. The Diamond is a stone of peace when worn, relieving nightmares and encouraging sleep at bedtime. Diamonds are, even to this day, used in engagement rings, and are said to enhance the love of a husband for his wife, and vice versa. Diamond is the commonly assigned birthstone of those born in the month of April.
History: In India, women who can afford to wear an unblemished white diamond with a slightly black hue do so to ensure male children. It was also worn to conquer infertility. In Rome, it was set in steel rings and worn with the stone touching the skin, this producing bravery, daring, and victory. In India, also, a diamond set in a platinum or silver ring was worn for victory in battles and conflicts. In other Diamond folklore, the powers of the stone were thought to be ruined if it were acquired by purchase; it could only be received as a gift. (The spirit dwelling in the stone was thought to be offended at being bought and sold). Diamonds were claimed by St. Hildegard to be enemies of the devil, resisting his power day and night. Associated with lightning, Diamond was also believed to owe its origin to the thunderbolt, and it is in some folklore, said to be consumed or melted by thunder. A fact not known in Europe in the 14th century was that Diamond can, in fact, be entirely consumed at a high temperature. Arabians, Persians, and modern Egyptians attribute the Diamond to a wonderful power of bringing good fortune. Rabbi Benoni (a 14th century mystic) asserted that the Diamond powerfully attracted the planetary influences, rendering the wearer invincible. It was also said to provoke a state of spiritual ecstasy.
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Emerald
Description: Emerald comes from the Beryl family (which includes Aquamarine) and is found in shades of green varying from very light to very deep. It crystallizes in the structure of prismatic crystals, sometimes vertically striated and terminated by small pyramid-like faces.
Location: The main site where Emeralds are mined is in Columbia, however, fine emeralds can also be found in other countries such as Zambia, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan or Russia.
Astrological Sign: The planet Venus, and signs Cancer, Taurus, and Libra
Spiritual Uses: Emerald is valuable in meditative work as well as healing. It gives wisdom from the mental plane, helping the possessor to be motivated to give love and wisdom to others. It is known as a "stone of successful love," said to instill both sensitivity and loyalty within the self and within others, providing also for domestic bliss. It can be used to stimulate the use of greater mental capacity and to enhance the memory. It allows for the choice of "right" action to be your only choice, helping to combine intelligence with discernment. The Emerald can be used to open, activate, and stimulate the heart chakra, while also quieting the emotions. Emerald improves psychic abilities, helps the individual attain balance, and raises consciousness. It can help one to maintain the rhythmic breathing conducive to entering and attaining depth in the meditative state, and after meditating, can help one to emit the radiance of the light. It can help to bring awareness of the unknown to conscious recognition, helping one to access the laws of order within the universe, eliminating that from one's life that which impedes progress. Emerald can assist in facilitating intensity and focus in one's actions and can be used to eliminate negativity from one's life, bringing forth the positive actions required to assist one in remaining centered in the practicality of one's lifework. Emeralds are often used in business spells and rituals to promote sales in a business.
Physical Uses: Emerald helps its wearer gain physical, emotional, and mental equilibrium. It can be worn by anyone without ill effects, and is an inspirational and relaxing stone. It can be used in treatment of disorders of the lungs, heart, spine, and muscular system, and also to soothe the eyes. Emerald should be worn on the little finger or ring finger and can also be worn as a pendant over the heart center, in the middle of the chest, or as a bracelet on the right arm. It should not be worn constantly, only when the wearer feels the need to have its energy near. Emerald is of special value to athletes, chiropractors, lecturers, marriage counselors, masseurs, people who work in radioactive areas and in close quarters with others, and optometrists. It has been said to enhance the immune system. Emeralds were used to aid in eloquence, strengthen memory, and to reveal the truth or falsity of a lover's oaths. Also, Emeralds were used as antidotes for poisons and poisoned wounds. When worn about one's neck, they were said to cure epilepsy. Another attribute of the Emerald is strengthening the memory as well as increasing understanding and producing eloquent speech.
History: In the 3rd century, the Emerald was the precious stone mentioned by Theophrastus in his treatise on gems, its use being to relieve eyestrain. This theory was so widely held at that time, that gem engravers kept Emeralds on their worktables so as to be able to look at the stone from time to time to relieve eyestrain. Hindu physicians in the 13th century considered an Emerald to be an effective laxative, and it was also said to cure dysentery, diminish the secretion of bile, and stimulate the appetite, promoting bodily health and destroying demonical influences. In the 1600's, a certain cure for dysentery was to wear an Emerald suspended so that it touched the abdomen. Another Emerald was then placed in the mouth.
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Flint
Description: Flint is a variety of chalcedony, which occurs in gray, smoky-brown, and brown-black colors. Flint is also a term vaguely applied to varieties of opaque quartz. Flint has many folk names including: Thunderstone, elf-shot, fairy-shot, elf-arrow, and adder stone.
Location: Flint is found in all countries around the world.
Astrological Sign: Scorpio and the planet Mars
Spiritual Uses: Flint is an excellent choice for use in activities related to thought transference, helping its user to transfer ideas, information, and loving emotional messages to another and to receive, in return, the touching interpersonal experiences of the energy of the universe. It can assist one in viewing the unknown, providing for insight into the methods by which to oppose contrary forces. It can enhance its users abilities towards meticulous judgment concerning the manifested character of others. It has also been used as a tool for psychic surgery.
Physical Uses: Flint is beneficial to the entire body, helping all tissue (internal or external), but especially the cardiopulmonary and cleansing systems. It can be used to help one feel more whole and healthy, giving a strong boost to one's mental state. It is extremely helpful for those who have been afflicted by degenerative diseases. The stone can help to promote both intimate and personal experiences and to relieve shyness. It can also assist one in severing the emotional ties through which one is attached to problems and distressful situations. It can be helpful in money management. Flint is uses a protective amulet and is thought to be particularly potent when placed above the door. It has also been used in the treatment of kidney stones, calcium deposits, skin lesion, lung and liver disorders, and digestion, and to prevent nightmares. To help in the diminishment of superficial growths and to enhance the integrity of the skin, it can be used as an elixir.
History: The stone has been revered for its ability to produce protective energy and to dispel negativity, by ancient tribes of this planet. It was used by ancient Europeans (and probably Native Americans) to make blades. Ancient flint knives, found throughout Europe, were and still are used as protective amulets. The Irish set flint knives in silver and carried them to guard against mischievous fairies. Flint knives were sometimes honored as family "gods" in Scandinavia. Flint is used in modern-day Brazil in diving gold, water, gem stones, and other undergrounds treasures.
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Fluorite
Description: Fluorite crystallizes in the form of masses, grains, columns, cubes, octahedral, and rhombdodecahedra crystals. The crystals are usually translucent and come in shades of white, blue, brown, yellow, purple, red, or are colorless.
Location: Fluorite comes from many sources around the globe. Worldwide sources include Brazil, Canada, China, England, France, Germany, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Norway, Russia, South Africa, Switzerland. In the United States, the states in the Mississippi valley, especially Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio, have historically contained the largest deposits but Colorado also has deposits of Fluorite. Descriptions of Brazilian Fluorite, Canadian Fluorite, Chinese Fluorite, English, French, German, Mexican, Mongolian, Moroccan, Norwegian, Russian, South African, Swiss, American, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio and Colorado.
Astrological Sign: Pisces and Capricorn
Spiritual Uses: Fluorite aids in gaining spiritual awakening and fighting mental disorder, helping to make its user more aware of the higher levels of reality. It can anchor and free one from over-stimulation on the psychic plane. Fluorite has been known as a "stone of discernment and aptitude," bringing the energies of responsibility to the qualities of systematic intuition. It facilitates a limitless range of avenues for exploration and represents the height of mental achievement. It increases the ability to concentrate, balancing the positive and negative relationships of the mind, helping one to see both reality and truth behind illusion. The stone provides for a stabilizing energy, helping groups, relationships, and individuals to flourish in the realm of that which is "good for all." The energy of Fluorite can inspire the universal energies to activate the nourishing energies of the body, assisting one in the attainment of the ultimate state of physical perfection. It allows one to understand that each portion of the universe maintains an inherent perfection in order to allow the unfolding of the perfect universe, and allows one to recognize the purity of the universe.
Physical Uses: Fluorite works with the conscious mind, straightening thoughts, and reducing emotional involvement in situations in order to gain a more accurate perspective. It is useful for theorizing and assimilating information, and strengthens its user's analytical abilities. Fluorite quells strong emotions and smoothes thought over the angry sea of desperation, depression, or anger. Some people use Fluorite to strengthen the effects of other stones. It is best worn on the earlobes and is a young gem, still evolving into its full acceptance by mankind. Fluorite, like Fluoride, benefits the teeth and bones. People with arthritis, rheumatism, or spinal injuries have received some relief from their conditions when they use Fluorite as part of their healing regimen. It has also been known to rekindle sexual appetite and heighten intuitive powers. It sustains and encourages the flawless ideal of health, intellect, and emotional well-being, providing for purification, cleansing, and elimination of that which is in disorder. It is good for dissipating the states associated with colds, flu, staph, and strep infections, infectious cankers, ulcers, herpes, and similar infections. It has also been used in the treatment of tumors at the beginning stages of their growth. Fluorite has been used for assisting the structure of the bone and the composition and formation of the cells, as well as to assist in the prevention of RNA/DNA damage and repair of the same.
Different Types: Blue Fluorite helps one to develop orderly, sequential thoughts and is also good for promoting orderly record-keeping. This variety of the stone produces a calm energy, which is non-directive and enables one to both easily and competently direct the energies toward the appropriate medium. It is excellent for communication skills, both within the physical reality and between this plane and the other worlds. It can be used in the treatment of eye problems, inflammation, blocked tear ducts, and disorders of the inner nasal passages, inner ear, throat, and speech.
Chinese Fluorite is an excellent stone for both protecting against, and for amelioration of, disease.
Colorless Fluorite has been used to clear and energize the aura and to stimulate the crown chakra. It brings accordance between the intellect and the spiritual, assisting one in recognizing that which is not conducive to furthering the spiritual nature. It has been used to open the pathways between the universal energy and the physical body, to align the chakras, and to facilitate transmittal of energy from other minerals during the healing state. Also, it has been used to clear the eyes and to stimulate improvement in sight.
Green Fluorite can bring a cleansing, tidying freshness and renewal to the chakras, being used to help diminish mild trauma in the emotional body and to eliminate negativity within a room. The negative vibratory states get transmuted toward the light and love of the universe. It can be used extensively in the treatment of disorders of the stomach, acting to circulate a soothing energy throughout the intestinal tract. It also helps to ease discomforts of colitis, sore throat, and heartburn.
Purple Fluorite is a third-eye stone that brings rationality to the intuitive qualities and assists one in precise communication of that which is presented psychically. It can bring an orderly connection and conscious association to both psychic and spiritual growth, and assists well in disorders associated with the bone and bone marrow. It is excellent for preparing the physical, emotional, intellectual, and/or spiritual realms of one's being for healing.
Yellow Fluorite can be used to enhance creativity and to provide support with intellectual pursuits. It is also beneficial in stabilizing group energy, promoting a cooperative connection between the members and enabling one to recognize the connective structure of love among and between all that exists. It has been used to treat unbalanced cholesterol, disorders of the liver, and mental discontinuity, and to assist in the release of toxins from the fatty deposits within the body.
Yttrian Fluorite occurs in granular and massive form and is usually found in violet, gray, red-brown, green, yellow, and brown. It does not have the perfect cleavage that produces the octahedral formation and does not, therefore, emit the energies to correct disorganization. Yttrian Fluorite provides the qualities of promoting increase in wealth and mental acuity and is quite lustrous. It helps one to initiate the state of self-fulfillment, bringing fruition the self-actualizing characteristics and the properties of manifestation. It is an excellent stone for assisting in service-oriented activities.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Geode
Description: Geode is recognized, usually, by a spherical configuration which contains a cavity lined with a crystalline structure growing toward the center. Configured in the form of a closed shell, usually containing quartz, amethyst, citrine, or calcite, it is partially filled with crystals projecting into the hollow interior. A film of clay separates the Geode from the usual limestone or "mud" matrix. All quartz crystals, in fact, form within geodes, which may be a quarter-mile long or small enough to fit in your palm. Some Geodes don't contain separate crystals but, when sliced, reveal intricate patterns. Amethyst Geodes are some of the most beautiful objects on Earth and when sliced or broken open, they reveal a mass of purple crystals all growing towards the center.
Location: All across the Earth.
Astrological Sign: Virgo, and the element Water
Spiritual Uses: The Geode exhibits several properties itself in addition to the properties of the contained minerals and these properties include: facilitation of astral travel, and assistance in the pursuits of mathematics. Amethyst Geodes, or any geode containing isolated crystals, can be held and used in meditation as a contemplative object. Geodes, when placed on the altar or held, can be utilized to concentrate the powers of the specific type of stone contained within them. Prior to decision-making, the Geode can help one to both recognize and analyze the total picture. It also allows one the freedom to mold and to shape one's own future, assisting one in attaining highly effective communication skills and furthering one's connection to the higher forces and the higher planes. Geodes stimulate the bridge of association with those of like pursuits.
Physical Uses: To increase fertility and promote conception, Geodes can be placed in the bedroom and charged with energy. Due to their roundness and their containment of crystals, Geodes are egg symbols, relating to the Great Mother Goddess. Geodes can be used in the treatment of disorders associated with the hands, lungs, and the nervous system. The "brain geode," found with a conglomerate on the exterior of the Geode, has been used in the treatment of brain tumors and mental imbalances.
History: In the Middle Ages, Geodes were thought to be favored by eagles, who placed the stones in their nests.
Different Types: Many different types of gemstones are contained within Geodes.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Gold
Description: Gold crystallizes in massive forms, flakes, grains, dendritic forms, plates, nuggets, and sometimes, in octahedral, cubic, and rhombdodecahedral crystals. It is rare to see Gold within a quartz crystal, but it is a very beautiful combination. The color ranges from shades of golden yellow, silver-white, and orange-red.
Location: Gold is found in Australia, South Africa, Mexico, Honduras, United States, and Canada
Description: Gold crystallizes in massive forms, flakes, grains, dendritic forms, plates, nuggets, and sometimes, in octahedral, cubic, and rhombdodecahedral crystals. It is rare to see Gold within a quartz crystal, but it is a very beautiful combination. The color ranges from shades of golden yellow, silver-white, and orange-red.
Astrological Sign: Leo, also Aquarius, Aries, Scorpio, and Capricorn
Spiritual Uses: Gold, because of its amazing conductive ability, is well suited to healing. It is a regenerator, and can help one to feel renewed. It has the ability to balance extreme situations on the physical, mental, or spiritual planes. It also can clear negativity from the chakras and the energy fields of the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual bodies, while transferring the vitality of any companion mineral to the affected area. When in proximity to another mineral, Gold provides a stabilizing influence to the energies of that mineral. Gold is symbolic of the purity of the spiritual aspect of "All That Is," called by some, "great mystery." This purity (of Gold) is said to help one to preserve higher thought forms for later retrieval. It also is symbolic of spirituality and the development of holistic understanding, allowing one to both attain and sustain communion with the source of all being. Gold assists one in activating, mobilizing, and actualizing the intrinsic potential of the self, helping one also to improve one's character through learning. It lessens the trauma associated with the situations experienced during the gaining of knowledge. Gold has been used in the opening of the heart chakra and helps in the development, purification, and balancing of this chakra. It can also be used to open and activate the third-eye and crown chakras. The energy emitted by Gold can be useful in balancing the energy fields and assisting one in the elimination of ego conflicts and feelings of futility. Use Gold to calm excitation and states of anger and to help yourself feel balanced in the overburden of responsibility. To combat feelings of depression and inferiority and to allow oneself to understand and to dispense with self-reproach, Gold can be useful. It can help you if you are feeling timid or defeated, by boosting confidence and helping to amplify the qualities that make you an important and valuable person. Gold strengthens the appreciation of positive qualities in others.
Physical Uses: Gold helps digestion, aiding the body in the proper assimilation of food. It also is beneficial to the circulatory system and blood because of its ability to detoxify the blood. Gold can be very helpful to individuals with degenerative diseases, such as heart disease or arthritis. This is because of its ability to help rid the body of blockages. Chemical and hormonal imbalances are better controlled since all glands that determine the levels of these substances will work with greater efficiency with Gold's energy. Gold has been called "the master healer," for its purification of the physical body. It has been used, also, to enhance mental faculties, to rebuild the nervous system (in the treatment of multiple sclerosis), to increase warmth, and to improve circulation, breathing, and digestion. It has a rejuvenating effect on the endocrine system and in the absorption of vitamins and minerals. The skeletal structure and tissue regeneration are benefited by the use of Gold. It can be used to treat conditions associated with autism, dyslexia, epilepsy, and physical coordination and can be used to balance the right brain/left brain. This balancing of the right brain/left brain happens because with Gold, the production of neurotransmitters is stepped up, all functions of the brain thereby get balanced and improved. Gold is the greatest conductor of its kind when in its purest state. Gold has also been used for the treatment of arthritis, blood disorders, vascular disease, pneumonia, skin cancer (and disorders), heart disease, eye problems, paralysis, rheumatism, tuberculosis, nightmares, and spinal problems. Gold has been said to attract wealth, honors, and happiness, and to provide composure, to alleviate tension and stress, to stabilize the emotional system, and to amplify positive feelings. It also assists one in attuning to the healing forces of nature. Gold is the only metal virtually impervious to the elements, it never tarnishes, and as the softest metal, it is usually alloyed to give it strength. No other metal can achieve such astonishing flexibility in both pure and alloyed states.
History: Gold is used by many cultures as a status symbol and symbol of wealth (especially in many African tribes, as décor for the chief and other nobles.)
Different Types: Gold is used not only for healing purposes, as described above, but also in modern medical science (for numerous reconstructive purposes and for diseases like arthritis) and industrial purposes (because of its ability to conduct energy and transmit information without distortion.)
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Hematite
Description: Hematite crystallizes in the form of tabular and rhombohedral crystals, masses, columnar and granular shapes, plate-like layers, rosettes, and botryoidal (uncommon) configurations. It is an iron oxide, steel gray to iron black in color. Sometimes it is found with deep red spots on the surface. Hematite is heavy, solid, and silvery black.
Location: Hematite is found in the United States, Brazil, and Canada Hematite is the major ore mined to produce Iron and hence, a very important mineral in the economies of many countries. Deposits of Hematite exist in South America in Brazil; in Europe in Sweden, Germany, Norway, England, and Spain; in the Pacific in New Zealand; and in the US in the Midwest and West. The sedimentary deposits in the Lake Superior region of the US are the world's largest, producing 150,000,000 lbs. annually.
Astrological Sign: Aries and Aquarius
Spiritual Uses: Hematite can help one to "sort out" things in one's mind, and is sometimes called a "stone for the mind." It assists one in mathematical pursuits and in the development of both mental and manual dexterity. It can also be used for memory enhancement, technical knowledge, original thinking, and mental attunement. Hematite possesses the curious property of "healing" itself when a scratch is made on its surface. If a finger is rubbed over the scratched area, the stone may dissolve the scratch, making it disappear. Hematite can be used for astral projection and can assist in the focusing of energy and emotions to maintain balance between the body, mind, and spirit. It assists, also, in the dissolution of negativity, transforming the negativity to the pure state of universal light and love. In meditation, it can help one to attain a "soft" meditative state, providing for smooth grounding and bringing tranquility and emotional clarity. Hematite has magnetic qualities that help to balance the meridians within the body and provide a stable equilibrium between the ethereal nervous system and the physical nervous system. It facilitates the balancing of the yin-yang energies. Hematite is useful for facilitating the desire for and attainment of peace, inner happiness, and self control.
Physical Uses: Hematite can be used in the treatment of leg cramps, blood disorders (such as anemia), insomnia, and nervous disorders. Placing a piece of Hematite on the base of the spine, on the area of mis-alignment, and on the top of the spine, has provided adjustment to the vertebrae. It can be used to assist in spinal alignment and in the proper healing of breaks and fractures. Hematite can be conducive to enabling one to enter into a loving relationship, and has been said to attract "kind" love. The stone is capable of helping the body to remain cool, or of dispelling heat at the physical level. In this way, it is known to be powerful in drawing illness from the body. Use it one your forehead to draw-out heat from a fever, or take it as a tincture internally. Also, it can be held in the hands while visualizing, then placed on the skin directly over the afflicted area. A necklace of small stones can also be worn for healing. Hematite is worn for stabilizing and grounding purposes, and to focus one's attention on the physical plane. Hematite is full of iron, and this mineral has a strong effect on the blood. It is known in gemstone literature for its use in supporting the kidney's blood-cleansing function. Hematite is a well-known protective stone, helping bolster low self-esteem, and is said to aid in tissue regeneration.
History: To ancients, Hematite was what we now know as bloodstone, so virtually all magical information relating to "Hematite" in old books refers to bloodstone. Hematite, when worked on a lapidary wheel, "bleeds" and produces stains that look much like blood. Hematite is fashioned into necklaces in Italy, which people sell as "volcano spit." The stone was used by Galen for inflamed eyelids and headaches, and by Pliny for blood disorders. By Egyptians, it was valued as a cure for hysteria, and Azchalias told that Hematite, when worn as a talisman, procured for the wearer a favorable hearing and good fortune in the issuing of lawsuits and judgements. Because of the stone's affinity with the planet Mars, it was considered helpful to warriors who rubbed their bodies with it. The stone, like Lodestone, was believed to confer invulnerability.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Herkimer Diamond
Description: The Herkimer Diamond is actually a unique form of Quartz, and not Diamond, as one might think from the name. The Herkimer crystallizes in the configuration of double-terminated short, stout, clear or included prismatic crystals. Herkimers are similar to Diamonds in that they help to increase the energy and healing qualities of other stones. They are especially clear crystals that refract light internally, allowing one to see rainbows within the crystal.
Location: The Herkimer Diamond derives its name from the fact that it was discovered in Herkimer, New York.
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius
Spiritual Uses: The Herkimer Diamond is known as an "attunement stone," and it can be used to attune oneself with another person, environment, or activity. They are very old stones and within them is a storehouse of ecological memory that can be utilized by a person who can tune into the energy. They can help guide you in remembering your own past-life experiences. Herkimer can accept and retain information which can be retrieved at a later time and information can also be stored within the Herkimer prior to giving the mineral to another. Once the stone is implanted with "thoughts of love," it can be used to facilitate healing and well-being for others and for the Earth. Herkimer is a good stone to use prior to the "laying on of stones" or in other healing sessions when the healer and subject are not well acquainted. To do this, both the healer and the subject of healing should hold the Herkimer for several minutes prior to the session. This allows the two people's energy to mingle, and furthers the healing process, if the healer remembers to stay grounded. Two Herkimers can also be held simultaneously by two people, each person carrying one of the Herkimers. This will psychically attune the two people. Herkimer stimulates clairvoyant and clairaudient abilities and can assist one in prescience and in telepathic communication. Herkimer Diamonds help one to "just be," providing for both surrender and strength while allowing for the further recognition of the essential being within the self. Its energy is of delicate harmony, and this energy enhances distinct awareness and unbridled spontaneity. Herkimers also assist one in clearing the body-mind system of unconscious fears and repressions, which allows one to relax and expand life energy.
Physical Uses: Herkimer Diamonds work as auxiliary filters that accent the natural filtering abilities of the body. If a person is in good physical and mental health, the body naturally filters out toxins before they can be damaging, but if a person is unhealthy (and their defenses in need of a boost), Herkimer Diamonds can give that boost. Herkimers do this by dispersing toxins that have accumulated in the body and re-building the cellular structure. People who work in proximity to radioactive materials should either wear or carry this stone as a form of protection and to dissipate any harmful rays. Herkimers have been used to correct imbalances in RNA/DNA and in the metabolic rate. This mineral can help to align the energy structure of the user by alleviating tension, and calming the outer bodies and the physical body. By releasing the tensions and rigidities of body tissues, Herkimer further assists in the recovery of memory by these areas, which facilitates healing.
History: Herkimer Diamonds can be worn or carried anywhere and are strongly recommended for pendants or earrings.
Different Types: Amethyst Herkimer Diamonds are found in Tanzania and Mexico. These stones integrate the properties of the Amethyst with the properties of Herkimer Diamonds, forming a very powerful stone. Herkimer Diamonds can be found mingling in the same formation as Rutile and Geothite, and the respective formations contain the properties of Herkimer blended with the other mineral's properties.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Iron
Description: Iron crystallizes in the form of grains and masses. It is also found in its purest form in meteorites. Iron's color ranges from gray to black.
Location: Deposits of Iron can be found around the world.
Astrological Sign: Aries, Leo, and Virgo
Spiritual Uses: Iron can bring mental and emotional balance, and can bestow new energies to enable one to dismiss traditional issues and to create and implement those ideals that are new to one's life. To facilitate "smooth sailing" in one's endeavors, Iron allows one to be tempered by experiences. During protective or defensive magic, wear an iron ring engraved with the symbol of Mars. Iron is also worn for grounding, for closing down the psychic centers, and for impeding the flow of energy from the body. This isn't the best during magical ritual, but is fine when the subject is under psychic or emotional attack, wishes to focus on physical matters, or is physically depleted. Iron horseshoes and the nails that attach them to the hooves are ancient magical tools, and may have first been used in ancient Greece, where they were associated with the moon and the Goddess Selene. A horseshoe hung in the home over the front door confers protection. Iron has been used to provide contact with the "fairy kingdom" of this world, bringing openness and receptivity to both abundance and tranquility. It has also been used to stimulate contact with other-worldly intelligences, enhancing the connection during the receipt of information. It also can provide insight and knowledge.
Physical Uses: Iron can be used in the treatment of blood disorders, muscular atrophy, sore throat, internal bleeding, and gall and kidney stones. It can also be used to strengthen the reproductive system and the structures of nails. Wearing iron or carrying a small piece of this metal enhances physical strength and is an excellent talisman for athletes. To scare away "demons" that cause disease, a small piece of Iron is placed beneath the pillow at night. Iron rings or bracelets are worn to draw out illnesses from the body. To incur heavy protection, place small pieces of Iron in each room of the house or bury at the four corners of your property. In olden days, Iron fences were sometimes used to halt the flow of negativity into the home.
History: Once ancient humans discovered how to remove Iron from its ore, it was made more widely available, and once this occurred, the metal was used mostly for physical applications and not so much in magical applications. In ancient Greece, no Iron was brought into the temples, and Roman priests could not be shaved or scraped with Iron during bodily cleansing. Other countries, such as Ireland, Scotland, Finland, China, India, and Korea have severe taboos against Iron. ritual fires were built without the use of Iron, and Altars also were built without its use. Herbs were collected with non-Iron knives, this tradition stemming from the belief that the metal would "jam" the herb's energies. In ancient Scotland, Iron was used to avert danger when a death had occurred in the household. A strange custom there was to thrust nails made of Iron into all the food of the house-cheese, grain, meat, etc.-in order to act as a lightning rod, attracting the confusing vibrations that are aroused when death comes, thus sparing the food from possible contamination. Also in Scotland, healing stones-quartz crystals or holy stones-were kept in Iron boxes to guard against supernatural creatures wanting to steal them. Classical Romans drove nails into their house walls to preserve their health, especially during the plague epidemics.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Jade
Description: Jade is found in several different forms, including Jadeite, Transvaal Jade, and Nephrite. Jade is found in a wide variety of colors including white, lavender, red, brown, yellow, orange, blue, and green. The most well-known type is a blue-green color. Each color of the stone relates to certain ailments of particular organs.
Location: It is found widely in the Orient, and has been used by cultures far and wide (i.e. New Zealand, American {by the Hopis}, Egypt, and Mexico.)
Astrological Sign: Aries, Gemini, Taurus, and Libra and the element Water
Spiritual Uses: Jade is a peaceful stone, and is known as a "dream stone" and a "stone of fidelity." Its powers include bringing realization to one's potential and devotion to one's purpose. In the Orient, it is highly prized and is considered one of the most important symbols of purity and serenity. It is also a powerful dream helper, improving one's memory of dreams and assisting in "dream-solving." It is used to release suppressed emotions via the dream process by placing a piece of Jade underneath one's pillow before bed. It is also said that Jade can allow one access to the basic rituals and knowledge used during the Mayan dreamtime, furthering the connection with the elders of the Mayan culture and assisting one in obtaining the necessary insights for performing cultural services. Jade can be used by "dreamers" far and wide, by those who revere a beautiful vision or ideal. Jade can be utilized by dreamers to assist them in realizing those thoughts and facilitates the building of one's dreams in this physical reality. It releases one's limitations such that permission is granted, allowing one to actualize aspirations and to attain limitless achievements. To accomplish objectives, Jade inspires and induces ambition. Jade helps one to cherish one's desires and facilitates the building of one's dreams in this physical reality. It can help one to rid oneself of negative thoughts and energy, since is soothes the mind and makes tasks seem easier and less complicated. Jade is believed to have power over the weather and was thrown into water with great force in order to bring mist, rain, or snow. It is also a powerful love stone, bringing a greater capacity for love to whoever comes in contact with it. Its soothing green color is healing in its very nature. Wearing the stone can help the body heal itself while working through the underlying, nonphysical problems that manifested the disease. Jade helps one to attune to the needs of others, inspiring wisdom during the assessment of problems. It promotes the balancing of one's needs with the requirements of the greater community, and allows one to recognize and to care for that which is of prime importance to well-being. This sacred stone can also provide confidence and can assist one in the attainment of self-assuredness, self-reliance, and self-sufficiency. Jade can be worn, carried, or placed against the third eye to receive wisdom, and it also strengthens the mental faculties and helps reasoning abilities. The stone has a protective energy within it and can be used to guard against accidents and mishaps that proper attentiveness can avert.
Physical Uses: Jade is used for intricately carved, ornate sculptures and jewelry. In Chinese and Japanese folklore, Jade was used to adorn the persons of royalty and religious leaders as well as their castles and temples. The stone, in China, was often included in grave goods because it was thought to lend vitality to the deceased. It has been used as a stone assisting one in access to the spiritual worlds by many ancient (and some modern) primitive tribes. It is said to have brought the user a long and fruitful life with a gentle transition from this body to the spiritual world. In Egypt and Mexico, small pieces of Jade were put into the mouths of the deceased. Jade has another important physical use of being used in musical endeavors. It has been used to create musical instruments, including xylophones, gongs, and wind chimes. When the stone in struck, it produces a resonant tone. For the Chinese, the peculiarly melodious sound that emits from Jade is said to resemble the voice of a loved one. Jade strengthens the body's filtration and cleansing systems and assists in the removal of toxins. Jade can be used in the treatment of disorders of the hips, kidneys, heart, spleen, and stomach and is an excellent elixir to soothe and smooth the skin and to stimulate the health of the hair. It is said to be helpful in the prevention of disease and other health troubles. A piece of Jade can also extend healing to the plant kingdom. This is done be wearing a piece of Jade while gardening to improve the health of the plants. Four pieces of Jade buried along the garden's perimeter are also effective for this purpose. Wearing Jade is said to bring money into one's life. A Jade pendant or ring can be charged with money-attracting energies and worn while consciously allowing yourself to receive money.
History: In Mayan culture, Jade was revered as the "Sovereign of Harmony," facilitating peace within the materialistic world and within the physical, emotional, and intellectual structures. It was known to transmute negativity, to instill resourcefulness, and to bring accord to the environment. In New Zealand, the Maori carve Nephrite (a certain form of Jade) into images of ancestral figures, and these figures are worn on ceremonial occasions. The Chinese sensed that Jade had the power to prolong life and carved it into images such as bats, bears, and storks, which were worn for life-prolonging purposes. Jade bowls were used in China because it was believed that the stone's energy permeated the food before it was consumed. In China, also, Altars of the Moon and Earth were made of Jade, as were images of Buddha and other deities. The name Jade is derived from the Spanish term piedra de hijada, which means "stone of the flank." This term was said to have been derived from the Indian use of Jade as a curative for kidney disease.
Different Types: Jadeite, Transvaal Jade, and Nephrite.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Jasper
Description: Jasper is a form of opaque, usually patterned, chalcedony and occurs in massive formations. It is a common stone and found in a wide range of colors-red, brown, and green mostly. It sometimes occurs in the configuration containing stripes or "banding," and it has been used by people since the earliest times.
Location: Jasper is found worldwide.
Astrological Sign: Leo
Spiritual Uses: This mineral acts as a reminder to its user that they are not here, on this physical plane, just for themselves, but are here also to bring joy and substance to others, assisting others to release the bonds of constraint. Jasper is known as the "supreme nurturer." It was used by American Indians in rain-attracting ceremonies, hence its nickname "rainbringer," in that tradition. It was also used by the early inhabitants of the United States for the purpose of divination. Jasper is worn or carried to promote mental processes and to restrain dangerous desires or whims that could lead to hazardous situations. It also has protective properties against physical and nonphysical hazards. Jasper is a stone that accepts intense responsibility in the realm of protection, and it protects against negativity, helping one to be grounded to the stabilizing energies of the Earth. It can be used to align the energy of the chakras and to integrate the attributes of the chakras such that astral journeys can be affected. It serves also to balance the yin-yang energy, and to balance the physical, emotional, and intellectual bodies with the etheric energies. Its stabilizing energy works on the aura, as well, providing for a cleansing effect that helps to smooth dysfunctional energies and to eliminate negativity. Jasper holds an aspect of solar energy and a connection to the solar plexus chakra that also helped shamans in their magical practices. To the Native American Indians, it was considered a sacred stone used during the performance of rituals and sacred ceremonies.
Physical Uses: A piece of Jasper held in the hand during childbirth is said to guard the mother and her child, and the stone is also worn to relieve pain, especially during childbirth. Jasper can be used in the treatment of tissue deterioration of the internal organs, and for disorders of the spleen, bladder, kidneys, liver, and stomach. Its energy is more appropriate for treating deterioration, rather than malfunction, of the organs. It can help with the regulation of the supplies of Iron, Sulfur, Zinc, and Manganese within the body, and it can be used also to treat the loss of sense of smell. Soothing the nerves is another of its healing properties. Jasper is a stone that is considered more effective if it is used for long periods of time because it does its work slowly. Any benefit derived from Jasper takes time to accomplish because it is a methodical and meticulous worker.
History: The ancient Egyptian king, Nechepsus, was known to wear a piece of Green Jasper that had been engraved with the image of a dragon surrounded by rays. This was worn to strengthen his digestive tract. Shamans of old often wore Jasper to provide protection. The ancients revered Jasper as sacred, protective, and as a facilitator of safe astral travel. For this purpose, Jasper was placed over the heart and navel chakras prior to astral travel.
Different Types: Arizona Lizard Jasper is associated with the sign of Gemini and occurs in colors ranging from light to dark green. It can be used to assist in the release of the cause of disease, to impart hope to situations that may seem desperate, and to promote healing on all levels. It has also been used to treat disorders of the skin, to diminish water retention, to dispel bloating, to help with headaches, and to stabilize the emotional balance. It is also useful in removing energy blockages that lead to poor circulation.
Bat Cave Jasper (Sagittarius) occurs in hues of brown, tan, and ivory and its structure exhibits smooth flowing circular or oval patterns. These patterns occasionally resemble an eye, or infinite passageway, leading to that which lies beyond this reality. This type of Jasper can allow one to see the "inter-connectedness" between all worlds and can assist one (when astral traveling) to maintain an awareness of the physical world. It has been used to assist one in adapting to situations which are new, smoothing the erratic emotional states and helping one to anticipate "the best" in all situations, as well as enhancing one's practicality in expressiveness. It can be used in the treatment of the eyes, disorders associated with the fatty tissues of the body, of disease within the reproductive system, and in fighting bacterial infections.
Brown Jasper (planet Mars and element of fire) is good for centering and grounding, especially after heavy magical ritual, psychic, or spiritual work. Its brown color connects one to the energies of the earth, and can help one find stability and balance. It can help one to become more ecologically aware, influencing decisions that could help you decide how your life affects the pollution in the environment. Because of its intense attunement with the earth energy, Brown Jasper retains strong memories of the past and is well suited for use by people who wish to relive past events. The greatest benefit one might find in doing this comes from the fact that past life experiences can at times prove to be hidden stumbling blocks for present and future activities, and by analyzing these blocking events, you can overcome them, and progress onwards. Brown Jasper is said to boost the immune system, but this process takes some time since Jasper works slowly. It should be used by those who want to stay grounded.
Green Jasper is especially suited to tempering aspects of your life that have taken on too great an importance. Green Jasper can counter imbalances by working as a gentle reminder that the whole is only the result of all the parts. It works best on ailments of the digestive tract, upper torso, and the cleansing organs, and the stone is worn to become more sympathetic to others' emotional and mental states.
Picture Jasper has a structure that exhibits a hidden message and/or picture from the past. It can help hidden griefs, fears, thoughts and hopes rise to the surface of consciousness so that one may face the cause of disorders. It can be helpful in the treatment of disorders associated with the skin and kidneys and to stimulate the proper functioning of the immune system. Picture Jasper from the vicinity of Biggs, Oregon in the USA is one of the most beautiful Picture Jaspers and is also very expensive. It provides scenes from the Earth and is known as the stone for creating "Global Awareness." It emits an energy that promotes the spiritual affinity to achieve perfect accord between humanity and nature and is one of the "earth stones" for the age of cleansing and redemption of the Earth.
One type of Biggs Jasper is a rare variety known as Biggs Blue Jasper that has an added property that promotes understanding of the actual advanced technology of the ancient civilizations on the Earth. The stone also stimulates the third-eye chakra, providing insight into the methodology that is available for restoring the planet, renewing the sustaining qualities, and for understanding the prior days of the Earth.
Finally, Red Jasper has a strong link to the circulatory system and can be beneficial in battling diseases of the blood and in detoxifying blood-rich organs like the liver. It has been used to assist its user in rectifying unjust circumstances. The energy communicates the message that all choice is singularly one's responsibility and the stone can assist in providing for rescue in situations of danger. The stone has the interesting quality of seeming to replicate one's dream on a video-type mechanism for access during states of meditation. It can facilitate the re-piecing together of dreams, allowing the dreamer to remember the aspects that could be consequential in one's life. The mineral assists in helping one to learn to progress, and to eliminate the aspects of digression. Red Jasper has also protective qualities and is utilized in defensive magic. It sends negativity back to the original sender. It can also be carried or used during healing and health spells. It is worn by young women to promote beauty and grace.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Jet
Description: Jet is a fossilized wood, close in nature to coal, but it is harder than usual forms of coal. It is always black in color. When people refer to things as "jet black," this stone is what they are referring to. This glass-like stone is millions of years old and is associated with the element of earth.
Location: Jet can be found in the Whitby area of the United Kingdom, in Canada, and in Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah in the United States.
Astrological Sign: Capricorn
Spiritual Uses: Black has long been known for its absorbing qualities, and this applies to Jet as well. When using it, keep in mind its absorbing nature because it will help to draw out negative energy. For people who have unreasonable fears that limit their lives, this is an important quality. It has qualities of dispelling (fearful thoughts) and of protecting (its wearer against illness and violence). The stone helps to fight deep depression and to control mood swings. It is recommended by some gem healers for stimulating psychic experiences and guiding one in the quest for spiritual enlightenment. It is said that Jet aligns the base chakra and stimulates the awakening of the Kundalini, and when placed upon the areas of the upper body, it enables the movement of the Kundalini toward the crown. It is also a calming agent, providing diminishment in depression.
Physical Uses: Jet can be used in the treatment of migraine headaches, glandular and lymphatic swelling, epilepsy, stomach pain, and colds. Jet shares a similar property with Amber of becoming electrically charged when rubbed. Its electrical properties and mysterious nature have long made it a magical stone. To guard against nightmares and to ensure a good night's sleep, wear Jet to bed, place a piece under the pillow, or hang it on the bedpost. Jet is a general healing stone and is worn to maintain proper energy flow within the body to avoid illness. Ornaments of Jet and Amber together were believed to become a part of the very body and soul of the wearer and therefore were regarded with jealous care. It is said that, magically, Jet is "married" to Amber and the two of them have been found in prehistoric gravesites. Their effects were probably thought to bring good fortune to the deceased or to guard the bones. Necklaces of alternating Amber and Jet beads are often worn, even today, by some Wiccan priestesses, especially those affiliated with the Gardnerian path.
History: Sea witches and fisherman's wives in old Britain prized Jet as a potent magical protectant, and they would burn it in the household fires as an incense to guard their absent husbands. During the Middle Ages, Jet was carved into images of beetles and worn for protection. Jet has been used as an amulet by the Pueblo Indians, and has also been found among Paleolithic remains in the caves of the Kesslerlock in Switzerland.
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Kunzite
Description: Kunzite crystallizes in the form of flattened prismatic crystals that are vertically striated, and in massive formations which are perfectly cleavable. The color range is from colorless, yellow, green, pink, grey, and purple. Pink is the most common and widely used variety. Kunzite has a high mineral content of Lithium.
Location: Kunzite is found in San Diego County, California, as well as in Africa, Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, Myanmar, Russia, Mexico, and Sweden.
Astrological Sign: Scorpio, Taurus, Libra, and Leo
Spiritual Uses: Kunzite is held or worn to induce relaxation, emitting a peaceful vibration apparent to all around. It releases tension, soothing those muscles in which we often carry the effects of daily stress. When the stone is passed over tension-ridden parts of the body, it unknits the muscles. Carry this stone to calm anger, nerves, or fear. The stone is also used For staying centered and grounded to the Earth. It is a relatively "new" stone, and there is very little mention of it in ancient lore, but many of its secrets still lay waiting to be discovered. This mineral aligns the heart chakra with the throat chakra and third-eye chakra. It is a "bringer together" of the energies that produce loving thoughts and loving communication. The feeling of a powerful sense of peace can be felt by just holding the stone. It further initiates the internal acknowledgement and external expression of self-love, unconditional love, and romantic love. For those who are not totally relaxed when expressing the emotions of the heart space, this stone is an excellent helper. Kunzite dissolves negativity in the environment, automatically raising the vibrations of the area surrounding it. It can be used to dispel possession from outside influences/entities, and provides protection on the outer areas of the aura. Kunzite produces a shield from unwanted energies. It can also assist one in attaining deep meditative states, providing for centering in all situations and helping one to mentally retire when in the midst of a crowd. It helps one to remain calm in the midst of distraction and to sustain wisdom in the midst of folly. During the meditative state, Kunzite stimulates intuition and creativity. It dispels static un-focused energy and provides for centering, bringing perfection to all activities. The stone can help one to remain open, strong, loving, and vibrant. Its balanced energy brings one the openness of a child and maturity in thought and action. It stimulates sensitivity and sensuality also.
Physical Uses: The pink color of Kunzite relates to the energy of the circulatory system, especially the blood, and the lungs, which will benefit from exposure to Kunzite. It is a soothing stone that can help one to adjust to the pressures of modern life. It can also be used to both strengthen and reinforce the physical heart muscles and can be used in the treatment of disorders of the lungs and circulatory functions. It has been used to eliminate energy blockages that encourage the onset of dysfunction within the body, and can be used to stimulate the secretion of the hormones of well-being.
History: Not much history, not a very old stone.
Different Types: The very pale yellow Kunzite exhibits some additional qualities besides those of the pink variety, including aligning the seven major chakras within a twenty-four hour period. It also allows for RNA/DNA rebuilding and structuring, promotes stability in the calcium/magnesium field, provides blueprint information for cellular development in accordance with the perfect structure, and can be used to deflect radiation and microwaves from one's auric field.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Kyanite
Description: Kyanite crystallizes in the form of twisted fibrous structures, masses, and long-bladed crystals that are either found twisted or straight. The color range is gray, black, and blue with white, green, yellow, and pink.
Location: Kyanite can be found in abundance in the United States, specifically in Virginia and North Carolina. It can also be found in Zimbabwe, Africa and in Brazil. Blue Kyanite is found in a wide range of locations including: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Czech.Rep., Congo, France, Ireland, Italy, Kenya, USA.
Astrological Sign: Taurus, Libra, and Aries.
Spiritual Uses: Kyanite is one of the few minerals in the mineral kingdom that never needs to be cleaned or cleared. It will not accumulate or retain negative energy or vibrations and the energy of Kyanite has unlimited applications. It is one of the very best stones for attunement. It aligns all chakras automatically and immediately, with no conscious direction. If directed with the consciousness of the user, it can also open the chakras. The emotional, intellectual, physical, spiritual, and ethereal bodies can also be aligned through conscious direction of the energy. With a particular focus on the throat chakra and the third eye, Kyanite brings tranquility and a calming effect to the whole being. It stimulates psychic awareness and communication on all levels, dispelling anger and frustration and helping to facilitate clarity of mental awareness and reasoning. Kyanite further advances the conscious connection between the higher levels of intuition and heart-felt love, producing compassion in both communication and decision-making. It also assists in dispelling confusion arising from emotional, spiritual, and intellectual issues. The stone lends its user perseverance in activities and situations which would, generally, reduce one's strength, providing a stimulating energy and supporting one in the continuation of projects.
Physical Uses: In setting the stage for meditation, Kyanite is a great helper. If there is ever a problem with respect to "getting into" a meditative state, Kyanite lends its calming, clearing effect that can be useful because the energy is accessible, balanced, and gentle. When connecting with one's guides and when accessing the astral plane, this stone is also quite useful. It helps to induce dream recall and to promote dream-solving, providing for access to solutions during the dream state. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the muscular and urogenital system, adrenal glands, throat, parathyroid glands, and brain. It is a beneficial stone to place between the heart and navel chakras during the healing activities associated with the "laying-on-of-hands." Kyanite also provides for balancing of the yin-yang energies, and brings an orderly growth to the intellect, emotions, and physical body. It dispels energy blockages also, moving energy from the ethereal plane through the physical body in a gentle way.
Different Types: Black Kyanite provides for grounding during the alignment of the chakras. When the Blue Kyanite is used in conjunction with the Black Kyanite, the alignment and the grounding are both spontaneous and self-operating. Kyanite also occurs in combination with Ruby.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Labradorite
Description: Labradorite is a blue Feldspar often used in ornaments and decoration. It crystallizes in the form of masses, grains, and tabular crystals. The color range includes white, yellow, and gray. Labradorite sometimes flames with broad patches of peacock blue, coppery red, or dusky gold labradorescence. This is because of interference of light rays from the plate-like composition, causing a display of spectral colors.
Location: Fine Labradorite showing beautiful colors comes from East Labrador (in Canada). In addition, it has been found in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, in Essex and Lewis counties. Some has been found in Finland and Norway and a fine grade in Madagascar. Pale yellow crystals have been found in Utah, California, Oregon and Texas.
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius, Scorpio, and Leo, also Aquarius, Pisces, and Capricorn
Spiritual Uses: Labradorite elevates the wearer's consciousness, connecting them with the energies of the universe. It also protects one's aura, and helps to keep the aura clear, protected, balanced, and free from energy leaks. It assists in the alignment of the subtle bodies, enhancing the connection between the physical and ethereal realms. Labradorite is said to help provide for the understanding of the destiny one has chosen, and is said to represent the "temple of the stars," assisting one in sustaining and maintaining. The Labradorescence is a luminescence, derived for extra-terrestrial origin, which is enclosed in the mineral to bring the galactic evolved energies from other worlds to the earth plane. It brings the light of the other planetary beings to the soul of the user. Labradorite is symbolic of the moon and can help one to advance without constraint throughout the cycles of progression. It is also symbolic of the sun, promoting refinement of action and discernment in direction, as well as providing for vitality and a sense of "self" during transitions. The transformation of intuition into intellectual thought is provided by Labradorite so that one can implement the instructions provided. It assists one to traverse changes, attracting strength and perseverance, and has been known as the matriarch of the subconscious mind. Labradorite can help to provide clarity to the inner sight, instilling a passionless peace of imperturbability through the annihilation of disturbing thoughts. It also can provide instruction to the user concerning the implementation and utilization of inner messages received (in the physical world). Labradorite is a very divine stone, with strong connections to the other worlds/realities. It assists in inspiring one to introduce the teachings of other worlds to this world of love and light, bringing assimilation and illumination to further the advancement of humanity. Labradorite brings the commencement of recognition of one's inherent analytical and rational abilities, further promoting the synthesis of intellectual thought with the intuitive, mystical, and psychic wisdom.
Physical Uses: Labradorite has been used in the treatment of disorders of the brain, to stimulate mental acuity, and to reduce anxiety and stress. It can aid also in metabolism, digestion, and regulation. It has also been used to clarify the eyes. It can also be used to diagnose illness and disease. This is done through what is called radionic analysis, where one holds a piece of the stone and places it on the other person (to be diagnosed). Using a pendulum of Labradorite serves the same purpose. The energy of the stone interferes with the energy of the user and points to the problem(s) involved. Labradorite can relieve insecurity and apprehension, while enhancing faith and reliance in oneself and the absolute purity of the universal harmony. It unites the personal self with the understanding required to both realize and achieve the destiny of one's life, assisting also in one's elimination of aspects of familiarity that can obscure thought and blur instinct. This can help one achieve originality and precision, bringing uniqueness without judgment to one's contemplative patterns. The stone enhances one's patience and helps one tune in with an inner knowing of "the right time." It helps one also to reflect and facilitate transformations that are beneficial.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Lapis Lazuli
Description: Lapis Lazuli crystallizes in masses, dodecahedral crystals, and cubes. Its color is always a deep blue. Lapis is a combination of minerals, primarily Lazurite and Calcite, with Pyrite sometimes being contained, as in the prized massive Afghanistan Lapis.
Location: Most of the world's Lapis Lazuli is currently mined in Russia and Afghanistan
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius, as well as Taurus and Aquarius
Spiritual Uses: Lapiz lazuli is a healing and soothing stone; its energy, when touched, can improve one's physical, spiritual, psychic, and emotional condition. It is an uplifting, spiritual stone and its deep-blue color reflects peaceful vibrations. Lapis is a stone said to have existed since before "time was born," a very old stone indeed. It can assist one in gaining admission to the domain of the unknown mysteries of the sacred texts and the esoteric ideas and enhance the wisdom to understand the information. It further allows one to gain access to, and to explore, the esoteric planetary knowledge. Use it to promote spirituality and for meditation. It also helps relieve depression and stimulates gentleness in its wearer. To attract spiritual love, Lapis can be used. It is also considered a potent fidelity charm and is worn to strengthen the bonds that have grown between lovers. A bringer of psychic awareness, Lapis breaks the hold of the conscious mind on the subconscious (psychic) mind, allowing intuitive impulses to become known. Wear a necklace of Lapis beads or hold a piece in your hand to enhance awareness of intuitive impulses. Lapis can be worn every day to generally increase one's psychic awareness. Lapis is also a protective stone, especially for children. Its influence of protection and courage-giving is utilized by adults also, and is probably due to Lapis' psychic properties. Lapis is especially connected with the throat and brow chakras and helps activate and energize both. For the purpose of maintaining the "perfection" within the person, Lapis clears these chakras and provides for unification of all of the chakras. It is a "stone of total awareness," expanding awareness and intellectual capacity, and allowing for conscious attunement to the intuitive and psychic aspects of one's nature. It also can help one to remain objective about the subjective, providing for stimulus to the process of reasoning and reinforcing the acceptance of subsequent knowledge. Lapis assists one in attuning to the creative source by stimulating the expansion and the realization of consciousness toward the awakening of the perfection of the self. It promotes the insight to a structured plan that can help one to evolve upward toward the light of the total unification with "All That Is." It can be placed over the third-eye to aid one in developing insight into one's own dreams, providing a connection with the dream forces which are working to both guide and counsel one during altered states. By using Lapis, we can become more in touch with our essence and play a more active role in the control of our existence. Lapis is used by many to broaden self-knowledge and knowledge of one's environment. It is one of the greatest stones for attaining an enlightened state and should be worn as close to the throat as possible. It should also be worn above the diaphragm so that the energy of the wearer is drawn upward. This stone brings forth the power inherent in the individual wearing it, so in this way, it is an enhancer and a leveling force.
Physical Uses: It is used specifically to alleviate fevers and diseases of the blood, strengthening also the eyesight if habitually worn. Lapis can be beneficial to the respiratory system, especially the throat and lungs, the cleansing organs, and the nervous system. It is considered a good stone for purification of the blood and for boosting the immune system. It is a powerful stone for use in any healing ritual and should be held in the hand of the magician to focus energy on the intention of the ritual. Although it is somewhat expensive, Lapis is one stone that every magic-using person should own and utilize. It is useful also in helping one to overcome depression and enhancing the states of serenity and self-acceptance. It is said to bring success in relationships and to bring cheer to the user. Lapis can be used in the treatment of disorders of the throat, bone marrow, thymus, and immune system. It can help to relieve the symptoms of insomnia, vertigo, and dizziness and can assist in preventing and in relieving RNA/DNA damage. It has been used to activate the regenerative energies within the body and can be used to stimulate cellular re-structuring with respect to both hearing loss and the Eustachian tube. The crystalline form of Lapis can be used to access the energy to sustain health and to restructure cellular, muscular, and skeletal disorders. It can assist one in the organization of one's life and in the routine, day-to-day activities in which one is involved.
History: In ancient Sumer, Lapis was closely associated with the deities in a general sense, but especially with Isis, Venus, and Nut. By carrying it, its possessor bore the potent magical power of a deity because of the stone's containment of the force behind all divinity. Seals used to sign documents were also made of Lapis in Sumer. These seals were cylindrical in shape and were made from small, round stones deeply carved with images of deities as well as their symbols. They were pressed on to wet clay documents and were also prized as talismans. In India, Lapis beads are strung on gold wire and the necklace worn by children to ensure health, growth, and protection. Lapis was highly valued in ancient Babylon and Egypt. In the Middle Ages, Albertus Magnus stated it was a cure for melancholy and for the "quartern fever," (a fever that returned every third day.) Lapis was also used to pay tribute to ancient Egypt, brought by those countries under her influence. It was often listed among the gifts sent by Babylonia, Babylonian Lapis being from the oldest mines in the world. These mines were being worked in 4000 B.C. and some are still being worked to this day. The Egyptian high priest is said to have worn, suspended from his neck, an image of Mat, goddess of truth, made of Lapis Lazuli. Lapis was also used as expensive and luxurious makeup after being ground up and mixed with pigment. It was also used as a paint for only the finest artists. Legend has it that the ancient King Solomon (the greatest stone-wearer of all) was assisted by an angel of the Lord who gave him a special ring which allowed him to control legions of demons which he used to build the temple. Lapis was also used by the ancient Hebrews to adorn their ceremonial robes.
Different Types: The Afghanistan Lapis has been known to promote the connection between the physical plane and the celestial kingdom. It represents the forces of initiation into wisdom and the mystical realm, and has been compared to the night sky bedecked with stars.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Malachite
Description: Malachite crystallizes in the form of masses, tufts, rosettes, crusts, botryoidal configurations, compact fibrous layered structures. Sometimes Malachite can be found in the form of stalactites and needle-like crystals and prismatic crystals with wedge-shaped terminations. The color range is from light to dark green, with some of the formations also exhibiting a druse of small Malachite crystals on the surface. Malachite is one of the basic ores of Copper and is often found in association with Azurite.
Location: The most important geographic locations are in Zaire, as well as the Ural Mountains, where massive blocks were mined and became wall paneling and table tops for Russian czars. Malachite also comes from Australia, Chile, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Arizona, Nevada, and California, in the US.
Astrological Sign: Capricorn and Scorpio
Spiritual Uses: Malachite is worn to detect impending danger, and legends say that this stone, like many others, breaks into pieces to warn its wearer of the forthcoming peril. It can also lend its user extra energy during magical rites. It should be used with extreme caution because of its ability to amplify whatever qualities the wearer exudes. It magnifies the negative as well as the positive, and so it is useful if your mood is definitely one the upswing. Wearing a Malachite necklace that touches your skin near your heart expands your ability to love and, so, draws a love to you. It is a "stone of transformation," assisting one in changing situations, and providing for the transfer of sacred information leading to spiritual evolution. Malachite is also an equalizing and balancing agent, creating an unobstructed path, which leads to a desired goal. It also provides for an indication of the procedural steps required to attain a chosen end-result. It brings one understanding and intuitive answers to the forefront prior to response and subsequent action, helping one to accept responsibility for one's actions, circumstances, and actuality. It can be used to facilitate insight concerning the cause of any specific condition, basic disorders within the body, mind, and spirit, and to the conditions associated with interaction with others in this reality. It can assist one in clearing and activating all chakras and is quite helpful in stimulating the heart and throat chakras. It can be used in re-birthing situations, providing for ease of disposal of opposing encounters. It is also excellent for clarifying the emotions and for allowing for both the recognition and the release of negative experiences that one cannot recall.
Physical Uses: Malachite stimulates instinctive and intuitive reasoning, allowing for change that facilitates advancement. Its green color is strongly in tune with nature, the force of life, and healing and it has an affinity with earth and water. It is used to awaken healing qualities and is useful in treating mental illnesses. It is said to stimulate the optic nerve, to help the pancreas, spleen, parathyroid, and to help dyslexia. It also represents fidelity in love and friendship, loyalty in partnerships, and practicality and responsibility in business transactions. It is said to dispel symptoms of, and to stimulate awareness of, the inner bases for the condition of vertigo and has been used as a protective stone by those involved in the field of aviation. This mineral can help one to look deep within the self and to acknowledge the reasons supporting an illness, further guiding and supporting one in the release of the emotional causative factors. It is said to protect against radiation and can be used in the treatment of asthma, arthritis, swollen joints, growths, tumors, broken bones, and torn muscles. It can also be used to regulate the RNA/DNA structures, to align and cleanse the cellular structure, to enhance the immune system, and to ease the process of birth. Small pieces of Malachite placed in each corner of a business building or a small piece placed in the cash register draws customers. Worn during business meetings or trade shows, it increases one's ability to obtain good deals and sales. It is said to be "the salesperson's stone." The stone is useful for relaxation and neurological disorders as well as tissue regeneration. A warning about Malachite: its dust particles are highly toxic and should be avoided. Only the polished form of Malachite should be used, especially for the preparation of an elixir including the mineral.
History: Some gem lore claims that Malachite is still evolving and is in the state of becoming a master key to future healing and balancing techniques. The Rosicrucians believed Malachite symbolized the rising of the spiritual man. The Egyptians used Malachite for protection and safeguarding pregnancy and the stones were ground up and used as an eye remedy as well as a cosmetic. In Italy, Malachite was used to protect against the evil eye. It was also considered a talisman particularly appropriate for children. If a piece of this stone were attached to an infant's cradle, all evil spirits were said to be held at bay, helping the child to sleep soundly. In some parts of Germany, Malachite shared with Turquoise the reputation of protecting its wearer from the danger of falling.
Different Types: The stalactitic form of Malachite encourages progression toward the spiral of infinite wisdom, while providing strength for the journey. The Malachite structures exhibiting druse are especially energetic in facilitating both the rise of spirituality and the enhancement of psychic abilities.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Marble
Description: Marble is a metamorphosed limestone that occurs in the form of a coarse to medium-grained rock of re-crystallized Dolomite or Calcite. It is a carbonate of Lime. Coral, Calcite, Limestone, Stalagmites, chalk, seashells, and bones are all forms of Lime, though they have varying uses. The color range of Marble includes white, yellow, red, green, pink, brown, etc. Ruin-marble (one type of Marble) also exhibits the various shades of yellow-to-brown.
Location: Marble is generally found in the United States, Italy, and Greece.
Astrological Sign: Cancer
Spiritual Uses: Marble is used to provide for both clarity and suspension in states of meditation, including tantric activities. It promotes peak states of meditation and total recall of dreams. It provides guidance in the purification and control of thoughts, assisting one in the actualization of that which is desired. It helps also to actuate the "unused" portions of the mind, providing for the mastery of thought, the strength of self-control, and the power of serenity. Marble is used in protective spells and in spells involving personal success in a general sense. It can also help in bringing one into balance with respect to both amelioration and improvement of one's physical and worldly circumstances.
Physical Uses: Marble is a cleansing stone that is beneficial for the blood, skin, and cleansing systems. It can enhance one's "good common sense" in matters of the home, the heart, and one's sustenance. It can also produce a nurturing instinct in oneself, further providing for strength of character. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the bone marrow, and for viral and bacterial infections, sore throat, lower back pain, and to increase flexibility, both physical and mental. It can assist one in attaining the qualities of patience and determination while engaging in "physical fitness" programs. Marble has been used by practitioners of naturopathy and homeopathy.
History: In India, Marble was carried or worn for personal protection.
Different Types: Ruin Marble exhibits the additional qualities of providing for an intellectual connection with ancient civilizations, furthering one's knowledge about reactive social structures and of the centralization of the goals of ancient cultures.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Moonstone
Description: Moonstone is a translucent, milky gemstone usually pale blue or green in color, and is an opalescent feldspar. It is found in the orthoclase (adlularia) and the albite minerals (both are members of the feldspar family). Moonstone is described as having a chatoyancy, a milky-sheen, or exhibiting those traits on a portion of the overall specimen.
Location: These stones are found in India or Australia.
Astrological Sign: Cancer, Libra, and Scorpio
Spiritual Uses: The Moonstone is so intimately connected with the Moon that many use it in accordance with the lunar phases. The stone is associated with the Goddesses Diane, Selene, Isis, and all lunar deities. Some believe that it is more magically potent during the Waxing Moon and others use it during the moon's waning phase for divinatory rituals. Its energy is introspective, balancing, reflective, and lunar. It is capable of helping one with the changing structures of one's life on the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels. Just as the Moon is ever changing, the stone can help us to accept the changes in our lives. Moonstone energy relates to "new beginnings" which are the fruits of each "ending." Moonstones help to cool, soothe, and calm over-reactions to emotional and personal situations. These stones open us up to the feminine and are associated with sensitivity, intuition, and clairvoyance. Moonstone is also a receptive and love-drawing stone, and should be worn or carried to bring a love into your life. It is also prized for its ability to work out problems between lovers, especially those who have bitterly fought. Hold a Moonstone, empower it with loving vibrations, and give it to your troubled partner. Moonstone, because of its associations with the Moon, who brings sleep, can be placed beneath the pillow, or beads of Moonstone can be worn to bed in order to ensure restful sleep. Moonstone has a gentle protective nature. Just as the Moon seems to travel through the zodiac, the Moonstone can be a traveler's protective charm. Carry or wear it when away from home, especially during travel over or on the water. The stone should be empowered with protective energies before being given to a traveler and the stone can be worn also while swimming for protection in the water. Moonstone beads or pendants are worn during divinatory acts, producing psychism in general. The stone can be kept with tarot cards, rune stones, or other divinatory tools, to heighten the ability for the user to perform divination with them. Moonstone are known to heighten psychic abilities, and are valuable in helping people to get in touch with their subconscious nature, enabling them to find direction and purpose from the subconscious. Moonstone can help one in sustaining and maintaining one's life, and provide an understanding of the destiny one has chosen. It works to bring the galactic evolved energies from the other worlds to accessibility. It enhances perception and discernment, enabling one to make decisions that painlessly further one's development. Moonstone also cleanses negativity from the chakras, enhancing the feminine qualities of one's nature while providing for spiritual nourishment and sustenance, and a loving compassion to further assist one through all changes. It is a stimulator of confidence and composure, allowing one to understand that there is no situation so difficult that it cannot be countered with diplomacy. Moonstone is said to both arouse tenderness within the self, and to bring happiness to the environment in which it resides. It is a stone that brings calmness coupled with awareness, helping one to attune to the normal rhythms of the biological forces of one's body such that one can maximize, recognize, and utilize the natural energy cycles of the body.
Physical Uses: Moonstone is a good stone for those involved with agriculture, as farmers have long used the cycles of the moon as a gauge for planting and harvesting activities. Moonstone has a powerful effect upon the menstrual cycle. As a woman's sensitive emotional nature heightens already at the time of the full moon or menstruation, Moonstone's additional sensitive energy is not needed, and the stone's should be removed. Moonstone may benefit all parts of the lower torso, which includes digestive, cleansing, and reproductive organs. Another interesting use of the stone is that it can be worn or used in rituals designed to renew or maintain a youthful appearance and attitude (which can be more convincing than outward looks). Moonstone is also a good stone to use for anyone who's trying to lose weight. Rubbing the Moonstone over the "problem" areas of the body, and visualizing the fat melting away can be a powerful exercise. Wearing or carrying the stone with you afterwards will enhance its effects, which should be combined with proper eating habits and exercise. Moonstone energy provides the body with a sustaining force and can stimulate the properties of rejuvenation, alleviating many degenerative conditions with respect to the skin, hair, eyes, and the fleshy organs of the body. It can be used in the treatment of pulmonary consumption, to facilitate and to promote ease in pregnancy and childbirth, to enhance fertility, to ameliorate PMS and change-of-life, to eliminate insomnia, and to provide remedial action for disorders related to water (swelling) and insect stings or bites (as well as allergic reactions to bee stings, anaphylactic shock, malaria, yellow fever, etc.) as well as for circulatory disorders. The energies of Moonstone are accessible when worn, carried, or used as an elixir. To sooth and stimulate, it has been applied topically to the skin and hair.
History: In India, Moonstone was believed to bring good fortune and was regarded as sacred. It was given to lovers to arouse passion and to give them the ability to read their own future, good or ill. In order to do this, however, the stone had to be placed in the mouth while the moon was full.
Different Types: Moonstone is the birthstone of those born in June, and is recommended for farmers, artists, and dancers.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Obsidian
Description: Obsidian is a black volcanic glass, which is quite lustrous. It is simply lava that cooled so fast that the mineral contained within didn't have time to form. It is a naturally occurring glass.
Location: Obsidian is found worldwide.
Astrological Sign: Scorpio and Sagittarius
Spiritual Uses: Obsidian is a grounding, centering stone, reminding us that the physical is a path to the spiritual. Each of the two is a reflection of the other. It is an effective stone to carry or use in protective rituals. One such ritual involves surrounding a white candle with four obsidian arrowheads that each point to one of the four directions. This sets up aggressive energies that guard the place where it is set up. Spheres of Obsidian, which are still fashioned in Mexico, are used for scrying purposes. The blackness of the stone, for some, allows easier access to the subconscious mind. Obsidian is good for sensitive people as a stone of protection for its ability to keep away negativity. It helps one let go of old loves and old ways, stimulating the desire to travel and see new horizons. It can also strengthen prophecy. Obsidian reflects one's flaws, promoting a clear picture of the changes that are necessary to eliminate flaws. The energies of Obsidian produce very blunt answers, focusing one's inner vision and actually stimulating a picture or vision of the required course of action.
Physical Uses: Obsidian is quite useful in healing, providing both the healer and the subject with clarity with respect to both the cause and the amelioration of the disease. It is also a stone that provides a connection from the base of the spine to the heart of the Earth. It stabilizes one's internal and external energies.
History: The ancient Aztecs fashioned flat, square mirrors of Obsidian that they used for divination. A famous magician/alchemist hired by England's Queen Elizabeth I, Dr. Dee, may have used one of these Aztec mirrors in his scrying sessions. The Mayans used Obsidian for ceremonial knives, integral to the rituals and sacrifices they performed. Mexicans used it to form images of their God, Tezcatlipoca, whose name is interpreted to mean "shining mirror," expressed by the brilliant effect of the polished surface of Obsidian. Mirrors of Obsidian were used for divination in ancient Mexico and neighboring countries. It is said to have been used by Native American Indian tribes also because it was believed to sharpen inner and outer vision.
Different Types: There are many different types of Obsidian. The first is Apache Tear, which is good for the astrological sign of Aries. The apache tear has been traditionally considered to be one of the tears of Native American women, mourning for the warriors being driven from a cliff by the cavalry. It can be used to comfort in times of grief, metaphorically "shedding" the tears for one in times of sorrow. It allows for true understanding of the situation of distress in order to provide insight and acceptance. This stone promotes a forgiving attitude and a release of grievances which have been held against another. The apache tear stimulates spontaneity and facilitates the removal of self-limiting barriers, while providing an energy to stimulate analytical capabilities and precision. It is said to expel snakebite venom, and can be used to enhance the assimilation of Vitamins C and D and to aid in the elimination of toxins from the body.
Black, Grey, or Brown Obsidian is used for "gazing" and to produce sincerity in action and insight into future events. It is good for the sign of Sagittarius. It is used in shamanic ceremonies to aid in removing disorders from the body. One can travel with the Obsidian to the affected area of the body and the stone will visually bring the affectation to the surface, surrounding and transmuting it into white light.
Blue Obsidian is used for stimulation of the throat chakra, like many blue stones. It enhances communication skills, oration, articulation, and in the learning of new languages. It has been used in telepathic endeavors and is good for use during "gazing" and other divinatory activities. It is good for astral travel and has been used for protection during physical travel. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the eyes, and improve eyesight to ameliorate and alleviate pain, to assist in speech therapy, and to bring mental clarity during disorders such as Alzheimer's, and schizophrenia.
Electric-Blue Sheen Obsidian is a black obsidian containing a radiance of electric-blue and is an excellent stone for "gazing." It emits an energy conducive to balancing the energy fields (personal and any other that one might experience) and assisting in the suspension of actions which are ineffectual and/or unavailing. This stone has promoted a direct access to communication with those of other planetary realms, providing for a direct link to those with whom one needs to contact. It is an excellent third-eye stone, stimulating visionary experiences and enhancing awareness. The mineral is of immense benefit in furthering the receptivity of the subject during healing exercises and has been used in the treatment of disorders of spinal alignment and to ameliorate the arrangement of impaired vertebrae. It has also been used to treat circulatory disorders, to disperse growths, to enhance and strengthen the vein structure, and to ameliorate toxicity. It is currently being used to help deficient immune systems and dysfunctional cellular structures.
Green Obsidian cleanses the aura, removing not only extraneous matter, but also removing the "hook-ups," redirecting the cords to an endless vessel filled with white light. The removal of these cords can provide for an openness and state of well-being that is likened to euphoria, and Green Obsidian also protects the holder from future "hook-ups." It is a stone that stimulates the heart chakra and can be used in the treatment of disorders associated with the heart and gall bladder.
Purple Sheen Obsidian is associated with the sign of Sagittarius and is used for "gazing." It acts to provide information concerning the "root" of the problem or situation. The energy seems to pierce the outer layers of a problem, allowing for the heart of the problem to become evident. It can assist in bringing one toward the enlightened state and assist one in seeing beyond the immediate reality. It tends to fill one's mind with clarity and brings the mechanisms of psychic ability to initiation and actualization. This mineral has been used to stimulate clarity for mental accomplishments and to assist in the removal of apprehension and confusion. It has been used in the treatment of Alzheimer disease and to reduce the stress related to daily living.
Red and Black Obsidian is good for the signs of Leo and Sagittarius. The combination of these colors stir the flame of the spirit to initiate the rise of the Kundalini. It brings a connected-ness to the "brotherhood" of humanity and provides for vitality and virility. Red and black obsidian can eliminate the need to perceive oneself as an individual and/or as a unique unit of consciousness. This allows for both the expansion of one's identity and the creation of the "life you would love to live." It can be used to treat fevers and the chills.
Silver Sheen Obsidian is another type of obsidian useful for "gazing." Like Purple Sheen Obsidian, it is used to provide information about the "root" of a problem or situation and it allows for the heart of the problem to become evident. It can assist in producing a definition of the bases for one's path of action and can assist in bringing one "the advantage" throughout one's life. It can help its user to see themselves as others see them, acting as a mirror to the soul. That which is seen can always be used to guide one to further refinement and progression of one's personal actualization, even if it is not always complimentary. The stone enhances patience and perseverance in the tasks one has chosen, allowing one to understand the underlying reasons for the tasks. It produces a very strong connection between the physical and astral bodies, assuring that one may always "come home."
Snowflake Obsidian is a black obsidian with inclusions of a white mineral, whose structure within the obsidian, especially when polished, resembles a snowflake. This type of obsidian is associated with the sign of Virgo. It allows one to recognize the unnecessary patterns which remain in one's life and to re-design one's thought patterns to provide relief from undesired conditions. A state of isolation can be brought on with the assistance of this stone, and when the state is reached, one can experience surrender to the meditative state. This promotes sensitivity to the most vital powers in the universe, love and beauty. Snowflake Obsidian is a "stone of purity," bringing both balance and purity to the body, mind, and spirit. It can be used to treat disorders of the veins and skeletal structure and can be used to smooth the skin and clear the eyes.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Onyx
Description: Onyx is a type of chalcedony that occurs in the form of layers of a variety of colors. Mostly the colors include black, black and white, red and white, orange-brown/honey and white. Commercially, Onyx is used as a building material, some people claiming that it will be used in the future much as marble is used now.
Location: It is found in Italy, United States, and Mexico.
Astrological Sign: Leo
Spiritual Uses: Onyx is an excellent stone to use for aligning and centering oneself with the higher powers. It encourages happiness and good fortune and can be used to banish grief, enhance self-control, and stimulate the power of wise decision-making. It helps its user absorb, from the universal energies, those energies which one needs. It furthers the quality of sentience of the instincts, helping one to both see and to feel the guidance that is provided. Onyx is also a protective stone worn when one is facing adversaries in battles or conflicts of all kinds. Onyx is used for protection as well as defense against negativity. While the actuality of "psychic attacks" or "hexing" are rare occurrences and are often existing only in the mind of the victim, nonetheless, the performance of defensive rituals can be psychologically cleansing. Onyx can help one to see the duality of one's nature and to synthesize the yin and yang into the whole being. It can be used to provide glimpses of that which lies "beyond" this reality while providing for activation of the memory with respect to one's "roots." It promotes the recognition of personal strengths and assists one in the understanding of the reality of the moment. It helps one to follow the path alone, while also helping one to become the master of one's own future.
Physical Uses: Onyx has been used to reduce the sexual impulses, but this can be dangerous being that sexual release in a natural part of life. When it is repressed, physical or mental illness, antisocial behavior, or religious delusions can sometimes result Although natural sexual impulses exist for pleasure and for union with other humans, sometimes there is a need to curb uncontrollable sexual urges. Sex has been shown to be psychologically addictive, especially when shared with many different new partners frequently. Onyx is one stone that can be used to keep one's sexuality in balance, which is what is desired. When the stone is empowered for protective purposes, it affects the sex center in different ways. Since sex is linked with the survival of our species, it "protects" life, and wearing Onyx or utilizing it in protective rituals channels sexual energy into the stone and from there creates protection. When a Diamond, which is sexually arousing, is set in Onyx, the Diamond's energy is surrounded by the sexually inhibiting energy of Onyx, and this combination symbolizes control over our sexual natures. Aside from its sex-inhibiting properties, Onyx can be used to cleanse the intuitive receivers so that one may feel the connection to the whole while continuing to be aware of the many opportunities available for use of intuitive guidance. Onyx has been used in the treatment of disorders related to bone marrow, to the soft tissue structures, and to the feet.
History: In classical ceremonial magic, the image of the head of the god Mars or a figure of the hero Hercules was engraved on Onyx and carried for courage.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Opal
Description: Opal crystallizes in the form of masses, and sometimes, stalactites. The color range and related names are varied. The cause of the color of Opal was once a mystery that has recently been unveiled through the use of the electron microscope. Viewed through the microscope, precious Opal is seen as a uniform stacking and sizing of a great number of tiny spheres. These three dimensionally stacked spheres and the cavities between them, together, act as a diffraction grating which can divide light into the spectral colors, the diameter of the spheres within any grouping determining the resultant color. Opal without color (common Opal) contains spheres that are not of orderly size or stacking.
Location: Australia may be the world's most important source of opal, but it is found pretty much worldwide, in such diverse places as Mexico, South America (Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, and Peru), Hungary, the US (Nevada, California, and Idaho), Ukraine, United Kingdom, Turkey, Tanzania, Sweden, Norway, Spain, S. Africa, Russia, Japan, Italy, France, Germany, Israel, India, Japan, Greece, Greenland, China, Canada, Austria, and even Antarctica.
Astrological Sign: Cancer, Libra, Pisces, and Scorpio
Spiritual Uses: Opal can provide inspiration and imagination to all situations, helping one to recognize and to feel the creativity that is within the self. This mineral has been used to awaken both the psychic and the mystical qualities, helping one to understand the higher powers of intuition and mysticism. It further can help one to utilize these powers to enhance personal understanding and personal experiences in the different realms of being. Opal can enhance cosmic consciousness and bring joy and creativity. It is known as a "stone of happy dreams and changes," the happy dreams arising from the understanding of personal higher potentials coupled with the glad acceptance of one's inherent perfection. The happy changes emanate from those events and situations allowing one's aspirations to surface. Opal has the curious ability to help one in becoming "invisible" in circumstances where one does not wish to be noticed. When the energy is directed towards this outcome, Opal can bring one a quality of "fading-into-the-background." For this purpose, Opal was wrapped in a fresh bay leaf and carried on the person. Because of this quality of rendering invisibility, Opal has been called patron of thieves. Stones (and herbs) that are linked with invisibility are actually very good for promoting astral projection. The Opal is ideal for this activity, and is to be worn during astral projection for protection as well as to facilitate the process itself. They can also be used to recall past lives. People wear Opal to develop psychic powers and also to bring out their inner beauty. The Opal, because of its beauty and flashing colors, is also considered a luck-bringing stone.
Physical Uses: The most well-known use of Opal is that it has the ability to amplify one's traits and characteristics, which provides impetus to overcome the lesser attributes. This stone enhances that which one is feeling and allows for the release of inhibitions. It further promotes clean, true, and spontaneous action. Opal can be used to instill faithfulness and loyalty with respect to love, personal, and business relationships. It also can be used to strengthen the memory as well as being used to disperse infections and purify the blood and kidneys. It can help regulate insulin production and can be used in the treatment of disorders of vision and of the eyes, to alleviate fevers, and to stimulate circulatory functions. It can be used to assist in the recovery from Parkinson's disease and to provide comfort and ease during childbirth.
History: Opal has been used by the Native Americans and the Australian Aboriginal shaman during ceremonies known as vision quests. In the Aboriginal culture of Australia, it was used during "dreamtime." In the Middle Ages, Opals were thought to cure eye diseases. Blond maidens supposedly valued nothing more highly than necklaces of Opals, which while being worn would ensure their hair would guard its beautiful color. It has been said that if one dreams of Opal, one will receive great possessions.
Different Types: Opals come in many different varieties.
The Andean Opal contains a swirling of pink, black, beige, and sometimes, blue color. It provides one with centering and grounding and has been used to activate the heart chakra. It can be used for spiritual journeying to protect, assist one in selection, and to bring availability to the locations one wishes to visit. It instills knowledge of "right action" and dispels reaction. It has been used in the treatment of disorders of the heart, the thymus, and the lungs and can be used to alleviate water retention, muscular swelling, and spinal mis-alignment.
Black Opal is affiliated with the astrological signs of Scorpio and Sagittarius. Some very beautiful deposits of Black Opal can be found in New South Wales, Australia. Lightning Ridge black opals are the rarest, and they have a brilliant color which makes them a unique collectible. Black Opal is excellent for grounding, providing both grounding and concurrently stimulating activity. This stone can be used for "gazing" and can provide insights into matters of the past, present, and future. It is connected with the third-eye chakra, and can be used in "reading eyes," providing insight into the truthfulness and development of the person of concern. Black Opal can be used for disorders related to reproduction, depression, and digestion as well as in the treatment of dysfunctional eyesight.
Blue Opal ranges in color from blue-white to deep blue and is affiliated with the sign of Taurus. It can be used to stimulate communication skills and to assist one in voicing thoughts and information that one previously didn't have the courage to voice. It provides one with the freedom and courage needed to speak freely, and it gives one the discernment to recognize those with whom this free speech will be accepted. It can be used to balance one's metabolism, to assist in the assimilation of iron, and to treat hair loss and fatigue.
Boulder Opal is affiliated with the sign of Scorpio and is found in the color brown, sometimes with "fire" and sometimes without "fire." Many fine pieces of boulder opal do not have a full face of opal, but have bright gem material randomly intermixed with the ironstone (of the boulder). This stone can provide a connection to the stars, facilitating communication between the Earth plane and the "star people" of this world and other worlds. The stone provides for a grounding action while enhancing the transfer of information and can clear any "muddy" areas from one's aura. It assists one in communication between the conscious and sub-conscious thought systems. This initiates the healing state on all levels. The stone enhances mental clarity by helping one to "sweep the cobwebs" from one's mind. It also helps one to enhance emotional security, physical well-being, and spiritual progression.
Boulder Matrix Fire Opal is associated with the astrological sign of Virgo and is found in Queensland, Australia. The matrix opal frequently displays the highest intensity of striking color and fire, one rarely matched by any other opal form. It is an opal of purity as well as intensity. This variety of opal allows one to remain centered during times of decision-making and stress and brings clarity to problematical situations. It assists in calming the inner soul while facilitating the end of dilemmas. Boulder Matrix Opal assists one in communication between the conscious and sub-conscious thought systems and has been used in assisting one in determining that which one truly desires. It has been used also to provide a connection to the stars, providing insight and knowledge concerning structures of creation. It is excellent for clearing and brightening the aura, stimulating the healing of those areas that were unclear and assisting in the maintenance of the status. Boulder Matrix Fire Opal can assist one in accessing one's spiritual guides and one's animal guides and can be used in medicine-wheel ceremonies to stabilize energy, to bring contact with guides, and to instill permanence to continuity. It has been used physically to treat circulation disorders, to stimulate the flow of blood, and to release blockages.
Fire Opal is related to the signs of Pisces, Sagittarius, Leo, Libra, and Cancer. It is red to orange in color and contains the spectral of color called "fire." The energy of this stone assists one in endeavors of looking within the self and understanding the forces involved in one's life. Its energy is conducive to mystery, variety, progress, and change. It helps one to reflect upon the many facets of one's life and to understand the basis behind the changing tides of one's existence. This stone is excellent for assisting one in "maintaining" during stressful situations, providing an added energy to ameliorate feelings of "burn-out." It can bring one both hope for the future and faith in the self. It can be used to stimulate circulation, to enhance the physical sight, to ameliorate emphysema, and to treat disorders of the central nervous system.
Golden Opal is red to orange in color and does not contain "fire." It resonates with the signs of Leo and Libra and has been used to assist one in defining and redefining those attitudes and beliefs that are self-limiting. It can activate the crown chakra and provide for the alignment of the chakras with the ethereal plane. It can assist in the removal of negativity from the chakras and can further stimulate the base, navel, and solar plexus energy centers. Physically, it can be used to remove blockages within both the nervous system and the circulatory system. It can be used to disperse gallstones, kidney stones, calcium deposits, and other growths in the body. The energy is great for clearing away infection and disorder at the onset of the symptom, providing also insight into the attitudes that have caused these problems.
Pink Opal is affiliated with the signs of Virgo, Libra, and Sagittarius. It is sometimes known as the "peppermint candy stone." It is a stone for renewal and renews the sacred relationship between the self and "All That Is." It promotes permanence in the connection between the conscious self and the inner "knowing," and helps to guide one in the journey of life. It can assist one in releasing old patterns and can deepen insights into psychological issues, cleansing, and purifying the mind and heart space. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the lungs, the heart, the spleen, and the connective tissues.
Red Opal is affiliated with Leo and Taurus, and it has been used to stimulate positive aggression, and to reduce hostility and offensive behavior. By simply placing the stone within the environment of that which is hostile or offensive, the energy tends to be dissipated. Red Opal has also been used in body balancing, to create a balanced identification with both the left and right sides of the brain, and to produce the ideal state of cooperation within the mind. This balancing effect creates the potential for unlimited actualization and assists one in the creation of positive results. It has been used physically to treat disorders of the lungs, the stomach, and the liver.
White Opal is colored a milky white and contains a spectral of color. It is affiliated with the signs of Virgo and Libra, and can be used to stimulate the crown chakra, providing deep states of mental clarity. It further helps one to remain calm in the midst of chaos. In business dealings, the stone can be used to enhance adeptness, and it can bring inspiration from worldly goods.
Water Opal is colorless and clear, exhibiting a spectral of color suspended within the structure. It has an affiliation with the sign of Cancer. Water Opal can be used for "gazing" and to stimulate visions from within the realms of eternity. It helps to clarify and to assist one in understanding that which will continue to exist after the completion of one's time in the physical body. It is an excellent stone for someone contemplating leaving one's body, and can be used in the treatment of disorders related to birth, water retention, and stress reduction.
Crystals & Gemstones: Index >>
Pearl
Description: Pearls are calcified objects, made by shellfish from the very same material that they use to form their protective shells. They can be produced by both salt and freshwater oysters. Like Amber, Jet, and fossils, Pearl is the product of a living creature. The oyster produces the Pearl when a particle of sand, or some other foreign material gets under the oyster's skin between the skin and its shell. The oyster, in response to this irritation, coats the offending grain over a period of time with layers of pearly smooth calcium. The result of this process is the beautiful Pearl. Production of Pearls can be induced if a grain of sand is purposely forced between the skin and shell, and most Pearls on the market today are produced this way. These are known as cultured Pearls. The color of Pearl can include white, black, gray, pinkish-white, yellow-white, and bluish-gray, but the most common is white or cream-colored.
Location: The inside of oysters, in bodies of freshwater or the Ocean.
Astrological Sign: Cancer and Gemini
Spiritual Uses: Mystically, Pearls symbolize the Moon, water, the center of creation, and the universe. The Pearl's dramatic, unexpected appearance within an oyster has long inspired religious and magical lore. They take much less time to come into being than many other stones, but they have an advantage of being formed in their entirety in the water, which is a known purifier. Pearls, naturally, become tuned in to the phases of the Moon, which controls tidal changes. They have for a long time, been used to attract love and to spread loving vibrations. Pearl signifies faith, innocence, and charity, and they also can enhance personal integrity, helping to provide a focus to one's attention. Pearl symbolizes purity and can stimulate that condition in one's body and mind. They provide a clean channel for receipt of spiritual guidance and provide a clear vehicle for the advancing states of wisdom. Pearl can bring truth to a situation and loyalty to a certain cause. It has been known as a "stone of sincerity," inhibiting boisterous behavior and providing a reflection of the self, helping one to see oneself "through others' eyes." The Pearl is feminine in nature, both in physical manifestation and in the fact that they contain an embryonic object within them (the grain of sand.) They are in tune with women, especially those who are pregnant. Pearl exudes a soothing influence, probably because of its roundness. A perfect sphere is a soft and soothing object by its nature. Pearl's relation to female qualities also makes it very nurturing. If used properly, they can lessen stress.
Physical Uses: Pearls available today, in general, are cultivated in specially constructed saltwater environments, often in Japan. In these environments the water is warmer and more conducive to their development. Because of increasing ocean pollution in recent years, even Japanese Pearls have become less available. Natural Pearls are practically nonexistent because of the pollution worldwide in the waters. Pearls are used throughout the South Pacific by swimmers and divers to protect against shark attacks. Pearls are also said to be potent household guardians against fire. In various parts of the world at different times, Pearls have been used by their wearers to lengthen life, promote fertility, drive off demons, preserve health, instill courage, and lend physical strength. They have been used to relieve conditions of biliousness and bloating, to increase fertility and ease childbirth, and to treat the soft organs of the body. They can also help to treat digestive disorders. Pearl is absorbing by nature, so it should be used with caution, especially if one is feeling excessively negative while wearing a Pearl. It will hold that energy until it is worn again. At the same time, if one is feeling excessively positive, the Pearl will absorb that good energy, and store it within itself also. Pearl can help ease stress, and the conditions resulting from stress including: hypertension, headaches, and exhaustion. They may also help to prevent heart attacks and strokes, as well as aiding in digestion and reducing the chance of developing ulcers. Pearls are recommended for those in occupations as varied as artists, chiropractors, and farmers.
History: The Romans dedicated Pearls to Isis after the Goddess' worship was brought to Rome from Ancient Egypt. In early Saxon religion, pearls were thought to be the congealed tears of the Goddess Freya. In ancient Syria, there was a Goddess called the Lady of Pearls. Throughout the Mediterranean, in fact, pearls were associated with various manifestations of the Goddess, the summation of all that is female, creative, and nurturing-the feminine aspect of life. In early Chinese belief, Pearls supposedly fell from the sky when dragons fought among the clouds (during storms). Dragons and Pearls are closely associated, even today, in Chinese thought.
Different Types: Black or Blue Pearls are thought to bring luck to the owner. Pink Pearls are worn to manifest an easy, comfortable life. Yellow Pearls are supposed to bring wealth, and Red Pearls promote intelligence.
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Peridot
Description: Peridot crystallize in the form of masses, grains, and prismatic crystals, sometimes flattened. The color range for precious Peridot includes green and yellow-green. Peridot is also known as Olivine, and the related colors for Olivine are dark yellow-green, olive green, and bottle green. Peridot's color is a unique frequency, generally yellow (which is stimulating and life-affirming) buffered with blue (spiritual and serene in its effects). This combination of colors produces the delicate green that is Peridot.
Location: Peridot is found in the U.S., Brazil, and Egypt.
Astrological Sign: Virgo, Leo, Scorpio, and Sagittarius, as well as Libra and Capricorn
Spiritual Uses: The essence of Peridot lies in its clarity and minimal color. Peridot can be an extremely advantageous stone if you are in control of your life and prepared for the future. It boosts confidence and heightens assertive energy. Peridot may work too quickly to be comfortable, however, for those with a lower level of these qualities. Peridot is in tune with the higher elements, with the natural progression of events, and the attainment of spiritual truth. It can help one to visualize not only the ultimate peak of physical but of spiritual continuation as well. It is a visionary stone, helping connect one to one's destiny and to an understanding of the purpose of existence. Peridot emits an energy that is warm and friendly. It can be used to cleanse and stimulate the heart chakra and solar plexus chakra. This can bring openness and acceptance in the intellectual pursuit of matters of love and relationships. Peridot is used to attract love as well as to calm raging anger. It is also useful to soothe nervous energy and to dispel all negative emotions. It can also be used to magnify the inner aspects of any situation or circumstance, furthering the understanding of those changes that are occurring in one's life. It assists one in the recognition of the detrimental patterns that have been the basis for impairment in attaining that which is necessary for growth. It is a great stone for helping to regulate cycles in one's life (physical cycles, mental cycles, emotional cycles, intellectual cycles, and life cycles.) Peridot can help to heal a "bruised" ego, assisting one in the lessening of anger or jealousy and inspiring happiness within the self and delight in the nature on one's life. It provides for a shield of protection around the body and should be removed from one's person prior to balancing and aligning the physical body with the other bodies and prior to cleansing chakras other than those related to its color. Upon the completion of balancing, alignment, and chakra cleansing, the wearing or carrying of Peridot will prevent outside influences from affecting the aligned, balanced, cleansed structure. Peridot can be used to bring results to one's search-the seeking and recovery of that which is lost or mislaid in the physical world, as well as the quest for the enlightened state.
Physical Uses: Peridot is an excellent healing stone. It acts as a "tonic" to both strengthen and regenerate the body. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the heart, lungs, spleen, and intestinal tract. It can also be used to strengthen the eyesight in conditions of astigmatism and nearsighted-ness, and it can be used to provide relief from, and to provide for the healing of, ulcers of the stomach and duodenum. It has been used also as a facilitator for the birthing process, stimulating contractions and facilitating the opening of the birth canal. Peridot releases toxins and brings them to the surface, thus neutralizing them. It helps also with mental cleansing by highlighting problems. The stomach and other digestive tract organs may benefit from Peridot. It also stimulates tissue regeneration, and is said to promote healing of insect bites and to help in liver ailments. Because of its calming effects on the central nervous system, Peridot is also helpful in promoting sleep if worn to bed.
History: In Roman times, rings of Peridot were worn to relieve depression.
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Quartz
Description: The variety discussed here is the clear variety of Quartz, which crystallizes in the form of masses, grains, druses, and prismatic hexagonal crystals. Clear Quartz is also known as rock crystal. All of the Quartz crystals are made up primarily of silicon dioxide, one of the most common and most important substances in the world. Crystals of pure Quartz are generally six-sided and can be found in all shades and colors. Quartz crystals grow singularly or in groups and take on different shapes according to the temperature at the time of their formation. Quartz crystals can also contain other minerals "frozen" within them, as in Rutilated Quartz. Long thought by the ancients to be solidified water or ice, Quartz crystal has been used in religious and shamanistic systems for thousands of years.
Location: Quartz is found around the world. Although quartz makes up a large portion of the Earth's surface, there are only three places in the world that have enough high quality quartz crystal to warrant mining. These are Brazil, Madagascar, a small island off the coast of Africa, and Mt. Ida in the Ouachita Mountain range of Arkansas.
Astrological Sign: All signs of the zodiac
Spiritual Uses: Clear Quartz Crystal is a dedicated healer, its use in healing, altering consciousness, and magic having linked it to the spirit of the New Age. Pure white light can pass through it easily, leaving all the colors of the spectrum unaltered. This goes to prove the notion that Clear Quartz can help balance all the elements needed to make us whole and fulfilled. Clear crystals, in general, also amplify whatever influences are present in an individual or location. Any deficiency present will become visible and obvious. Clear Quartz can be used to dispel static electricity, providing for conversion and redirection of the energy toward a beneficial state. It modifies the energy available in accordance with the understanding of the user, and produces a naturally balanced, solid-state energy field. It can be used to amplify both body energy and thoughts, and can assist in the creation of power, providing for clarity in thinking to enable thoughts to more effectively influence matter. Clear Quartz acts as a purifier and tunes into the frequency of each individual, working at a vibrational level to return the body to its least altered or diseased state. If specific areas or organs are blocked from transmitting or receiving the flow of energy throughout the body, Clear Quartz will unblock them. These crystals play an important role in creating harmony and helping to balance all stimuli, positive and negative. This crystal can help in spiritual matters by guiding one's search for the meaning and importance of existence. It can help one tune into one's own energy and filter out unnecessary distraction, thus aiding in meditation. Clear Quartz is the connection between the physical dimension and the dimensions of the mind, and can be used to communicate with minerals, plants, animals, and intelligent forces outside of the physical dimension. The Quartz Crystal, at an earlier time when all things were thought to be conscious parts of a greater living consciousness, was believed to synchronize the individual and total consciousness with that of the heavens and the advanced life-forms. Quartz is said to bring the energy of the stars into the soul. The natural Quartz crystal was said, traditionally, to both harmonize and align human energies- thoughts, consciousness, emotions-with the energy of the universe and to make these greater energies available to humanity. Clear Quartz is recognized as a "stone of power," its natural tendency being for harmony. It can be used to facilitate both speaking with, and receiving information from, the spiritual and other-worldly masters, teachers, and healers. It can be used also to transform thoughts into sound, producing the vibration associated with the thought and affecting the environment with the discharged energy. Clear Quartz crystals induce amplification of the energy field in the location in which they reside. The crystal can produce a force field of healing negative ions while clearing the surrounding atmosphere of positive ions. It also tends to cancel the harmful effects of radiation and radioactivity. It enhances and protects the aura, providing for amplification of the energy field of the body. Wherever worn or carried, it acts as a physical and mental energizer. The Clear Quartz can create altered states of consciousness and can serve as a vehicle for both reaching and utilizing the talents and abilities of the mind. All of the psychic abilities can be stimulated and amplified by the use of this wonderful mineral. It decreases the amount of negative affectation that could inhibit one's emotional stability and can further assist one in retaining calmness and clarity in all situations. It provides for enhanced energy and promotes perseverance and patience. Furthermore, Clear Quartz crystals can be used to clear and to activate the energy centers of the body. They attune well to the heart chakra and respond very well at the third-eye chakra. During meditation, placing the crystal at the area of the third-eye can enable one to focus more clearly with the mind such that the mind can become empty. This may be attributed to the feeling of "oneness" conveyed during the meditation. It further promotes the reflection and magnification of images and thoughts, so that one may evaluate the inner reaches of the self. Placement of the crystal upon the heart chakra can help to clear emotional disturbances from one's being and also further enhances the states of self-acceptance and self-love. The crown chakra is also activated quite efficiently by the use of Clear Quartz. The spiraling effect of the energy produces a clear pathway for the movement of the Kundalini and for access to the realm of spirituality. One must make sure that one has overcome personal "will," for if the crown chakra is opened via the crystal, the available energy could produce disruption within the emotional, physical, and spiritual centers. The opening of this chakra provides a pathway for communication from the higher-self, and the best results are obtained when the "will" is "willing" and receptive to following higher guidance.
Physical Uses: Clear Quartz has a polarity that will change when it is either subjected to pressure or heat, as well as when it is held in the hand. The tip, normally positive and receiving energy, will then change and become negative, thus, emitting energy which will radiate out from the tip. These properties of Clear Quartz support the amplification, focusing, storage, transfer, and transformation of energy. A Clear Quartz crystal point carried or worn increases psychism, and when placed beneath the pillow, it offers psychic impulses in the form of dreams, which are the language of the deep conscious mind. It also ensures peaceful sleep. Clear Quartz crystals can be used in the treatment of disorders of the circulatory system and have been used also in the treatment of vertigo, to stabilize dizziness, and to promote emotional stability.
Holding the crystal to an area of the skin that has been burned can eliminate pain, blistering, and any trace of the burn. A topical elixir of the crystal has been quite beneficial to skin disorders. The same elixir, when taken internally, has been used in the elimination of toxins from the body. It can also be used in the treatment of digestive disorders and in the elimination of kidney and bladder infections and dysfunctions.
Quartz crystal is also worn to relieve headache, and a small crystal placed against the gum is said to give relief from toothache until dental treatment is obtained. The crystal can also be held in one's hand to reduce fevers. In shamanic healing sessions, as well as in home treatments, crystals are rubbed on the afflicted part of the body to remove disease. When the session is over, the crystal is cleansed before being reused. The crystal can also be placed on a painful part of the body and left there to rebalance bodily conditions and to remove blockages of energies, which many say is the cause of illness.
Crystal has been considered, throughout the world, to be a "milk" stone, being either placed on babies or worn by their mothers to increase lactation and to ensure the babies' assimilation to the milk. For protective purposes, the crystal is worn, carried, or placed in the home.
If worn close to the neck, Clear Quartz can stimulate the thyroid and parathyroid glands, being also helpful for respiratory problems such as congestion and sore throat. If worn over the heart, it can stimulate the thymus and can increase the efficiency of both the immune system and one's defenses against disease. If worn over the solar plexus, it can provide for the stimulation of total body energies, and can also increase one's emotional fields. If worn on the fingers, it enhances "the midas touch." If worn on the wrist, it provides stimulation to the meridians that represent survival and protection of the physical and emotional bodies. When worn at the third-eye, it can stimulate mental clarity, facilitating deep meditative states and activating psychic abilities. When worn as earrings, they can provide for balancing of the physical body, for alignment with the higher realms, for stabilization and balancing of all chakras, for clearing and activating the throat chakra and the third-eye, and for synchronicity between the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
A single quartz crystal carried on one's person or placed in one's environment will assist in maintaining balance, energy, and protection. Whether the crystal is worn, carried, or placed in one's environment, the force, the warmth, and the brilliance remain attuned to the energy of the one to whom it is connected.
History: Because of its connection with water, it has been utilized to magically create rain in many parts of the Pacific, including Australia and New Guinea. In the Eleusinian mysteries, Quartz was used to produce the sacred fire by concentrating the heat of the Sun to ignite wood chips. It was also in common use among North American Indians in rites and spells. Cherokee shamans, in acknowledging the crystal's power, kept it wrapped in buckskin when not in use. The Quartz would be "fed" deer's blood at regular intervals. Clear Quartz were used in the ancient civilizations of Atlantis and Lemuria for rejuvenation and in the development of a complete civilization of incredible power and splendor. The misuse of crystals is also said to have been what induced the destruction of these civilizations. This provides a good lesson for us. The energy of the Quartz crystal should not be used for purposes other than for "the good of all," otherwise, the experience of destructive forces within one's life will be invited. In the Yucatan, even in present day, a special class of diviners, consulted to ascertain the "will of the gods" and the spiritual nature of illness, utilize the Quartz crystal for divination. Throughout the British Isles, crystal spheres of an inch in diameter were mounted in silver and worn as amulets against illness.
In the fourteenth century, Clear Quartz was engraved with the image of a man in armor holding a bow and arrow. The stone was thought to guard its wearer and the place where it was situated. The origin of Clear Quartz crystals was somewhat of a mystery to the ancients and St. Jerome, in quoting Pliny, has explained its formation as a congelation of water in dark caverns of the mountains where the temperature is so cold that "while a stone to the touch, it seems like water to the eye." Quartz came to symbolize freedom and purity of faith to those in the Church.
The Japanese considered Clear Quartz to be the congealed breath of the White Dragon, and larger, more brilliant specimens were said to be the saliva of the Violet Dragon. The dragon in Japanese mythology is emblematic of the powers of creation, and thus indicates the esteem in which Clear Quartz was held by the people of this culture. The Japanese further believe that Clear Quartz is the perfect jewel, a symbol of purity, the infinity of space, and also of patience and perseverance. In the Scottish Highlands, a crystal set in silver and worn about the back was thought to be effective for diseases of the kidneys.
Different Types: The Window Quartz Crystal is recognized by the presence of a large diamond-shaped "window" located in the center front of the crystal, allowing one a view of the inner chamber of the crystal. This special type of Quartz teaches us the importance of looking within ourselves, even if the view into our own soul is clouded and imperfect. If someone chooses a crystal with elements that obscure its clarity, it may be a sign that there are elements within that person that need some clarifying. These crystals are powerful teachers, acting like open windows through which one can see beyond illusionary identities and into the essence of the self. They are quite useful in determining the cause of disease and will come to a person when he/she is willing to honestly look within the self and accept the truth. The four sides of the diamond, which makes up the window of this crystal, are also significant. They represent the transmission of information between the various realms of intellectual activity, allowing for both the understanding and the acceptance of the "ups and downs" of physical reality. The four sides are also representative of the practical side of one's nature and the impetus to continue with the quest for spirituality in one's lifework. The diamond shape represents the balance between, and the syntheses of, the spiritual and physical realms, and it further exemplifies the clarity of the mind. Window crystals have been used to locate "missing persons" and lost items by projecting a clear image of the person or item into the crystal and then accepting the subsequent information. There is also Rutilated Quartz, Rose Quartz, Milky Quartz, Smoky Quartz amongst others.
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Rhodochrosite
Description: Rhodochrosite crystallizes in the form of masses, grains, columns, crusts, botryoidal structures, rare rhombohedral crystals, and rare crystals with rounded striated faces. Rhodochrosite is a fairly recent discovery in the mineral kingdom, and it comes in shades of orange and pink, having stripes of various width in shades of white.
Location: Rhodochrosite is found in the United States or Russia.
Astrological Sign: Virgo, Cancer, Scorpio, and Leo
Spiritual Uses: Rhodochrosite has been called a "stone of love and balance," providing balancing and love on all levels for all bodies. It contains a pulsating electrical energy that emits the power of love. It can assist one in creating new worlds of being-worlds filled with love and dreams. The energy of this stone is encompassed by the presence of heavenly energies filled with the golden sphere of light. Rhodochrosite has the ability to help its user alleviate irrational fears and paranoia. This ability to "see" things less negatively can also affect the eyes in a physical sense. Rhodochrosite will enhance the dream state, resulting in better sleep. It is a stone that is generally soothing to the emotions and to the body, de-stressing it. It is carried also to draw love. The stone also gently purifies and energizes the base chakra, the sacral chakra, and the heart chakra, restoring balance in these areas. It facilitates balancing of the mental process such that the attunement to the higher self can be attained, and one's awareness and spirituality can be enhanced. It assists in expanding one's conscious awareness of duality, allowing for recognition and insight with respect to the method(s) by which the pervasive presence of duality affects one's life. It also assists one in the attainment of the solution to the puzzling concept relating to the contradiction of the duality of nature. Further, it assists one in accelerating the expansion of one's consciousness, and to both understand and initiate the practice of intensive relaxation, balancing, and acceptance. It helps one to have the willingness to both accept and to integrate "new" information while maintaining a clarity of intellect and a moderate ideal of practicality. It assists one in the re-interpretation of traditional values, allowing for the re-emergence and the re-actualization of the validity of living expression in all situations. It also removes tendencies toward avoidance or denial. This mineral has a gentle balancing effect that can maintain the etheric energy at a beneficial level and can help to prevent sickness. Rhodochrosite can quickly and gently balance the emotions, providing a stability, or order and structure, to the mind. It assists in balancing the male/female aspects of one's character and physical body, providing for a strong, clear, and tolerant energy. It acts to stimulate the energies of the body, encouraging the maintenance of the optimum state of health.
Physical Uses: Rhodochrosite is carried or worn to lend extra energy during times of extreme physical activity. It is a very beneficial stone for those with asthma or other respiratory illnesses. It has a soothing and warming energy that helps one filter out the irritants that trigger respiratory difficulty. This quality also applies to the purification of the circulatory system and the cleansing organs, especially the kidneys. Rhodochrosite is said to be most beneficial as a bracelet, and gem literature suggests using Rhodochrosite in conjunction with Malachite or Copper. Rhodochrosite is an Earth stone, for healing the Earth, and it can show love to its user. It helps one to serve the planet in her time of need, allowing for one to recognize that the responsibility is actually a joy. An elixir, taken internally, has assisted in the relief of internal infections (such as ear, sinus infections, ulcers, and inflammations). It can also provide a soothing effect to external skin disorders, and one can place the stone in distilled water (or natural mineral/spring water), energize the mixture in sunlight for several days, and then heat the water and soak a cloth in it for use as a poultice. The energies of the crystalline mineral tend to penetrate the infected areas of the tissue and assist in cleansing the area while removing the dysfunctional negative aspects that are present. Rhodochrosite can also be used in the treatment of various kinds of elimination problems, to strengthen the walls of the intestines, and to promote the production of the proper range of gastric fluids to enhance digestion. It can be used in the treatment of thyroid imbalances, and it has also been used to balance the energies of the heart and to stabilize the heart and pulse rate. An elixir of Rhodochrosite is also quite effective in the treatment of these disorders.
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Rose Quartz
Description: Rose Quartz is found in masses, druses, granular structures, grains, veins, and quite rarely, as crystal structures. The color ranges from soft-pink to golden-white. It is a pleasant-looking pink stone.
Location: Rose Quartz is found in the United States, Brazil, and Japan.
Astrological Sign: Taurus and Libra especially, but it is beneficial to all signs of the zodiac.
Spiritual Uses: Rose Quartz is used to stimulate love and to open the heart chakra. Rose quartz can help remove negativity and reinstate the loving forces of self-love. It is also used to promote peace, happiness, and fidelity in established relationships. Gentleness and love play a large part in the healing capabilities of Rose Quartz. It exerts a soothing influence, softening the edges of our existence and making negative influences or experiences less detrimental. This stone deals with energy on an emotional level. It is said that Rose Quartz has a sympathetic nature and when it is in tune with its owner's emotions, it can help to diffuse negative stimuli and uncomfortable memories. It can be used for spiritual attunement to the energy of love, providing for balancing of yin-yang energy and attuning each chakra to its proper frequency of energy vibration. Rose Quartz emits a calming, cooling energy that can work on all of the chakras to gently remove negativity and to reinstate the loving, gentle forces of self-love. Its message is that there is no need for haste in any situation, and it brings calmness and clarity to the emotions. It also restores the mind to harmony after chaotic or crisis situations. It has been known as a "stone of gentle love," which brings peacefulness and calm to relationships. It promotes receptivity to the beauty of art, music, and the written word, enlivening imagination, and representing a young, warm love. Rose Quartz instills a permanence to one's loving nature. Placing the crystal in one's environment, using the energies in an elixir, and wearing and /or carrying the crystal all stimulate the true life force-LOVE.
Physical Uses: Rose Quartz is quite effective in the treatment of conditions relating to the emotional body, balancing the love emotions of the upper four chakras- heart, throat, brow, and crown chakras. It can act as a rejuvenating agent for both the physical body and the emotions. It is an excellent energy for healing emotional "wounds." It can also be used to clear fluids in the cells of the body, promoting the release of impurities. Rose Quartz can also be used to enable the opening of the heart center, allowing for dissolution of stress and tension. It provides for help in the diminishment of disorders of the kidneys and adrenal glands, and can be used as an elixir to clear the skin, said to reduce wrinkles and provide the wearer with a soft complexion. Placed upon the heart chakra, it can diminish pain and can stimulate the proper functioning of the heart. Placed upon the area of the thymus, it has decreased coughs and soothed the bronchial and lung areas of the body. It has been used in the treatment of vertigo and to diminish burns, relieving and vanquishing blistering due to heat. Rose Quartz is advantageous for the heart and circulatory systems. It also is helpful to the cleansing organs. The reproductive organs may become healthier and more in tune with the positive energy we need for fulfilling expressions of love and tenderness. The physical expression of love increases as we become more positive and responsive to the needs of others. Rose Quartz is also said to help increase fertility. It makes an excellent gift for expressing love and will positively affect whomever it is given to. It is suggested for children because it helps to develop a nurturing and compassionate spirit. It is also recommended for artists, acupuncturists, lecturers, and those suffering from low self-esteem. If worn, it works well as a necklace and should rest over the heart.
Different Types: The Rose Quartz Chevron configuration synthesizes the qualities of the Rose Quartz and the Chevron Amethyst. The Rose Quartz Elestial configuration combines the qualities of Rose Quartz and the Elestial.
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Ruby
Description: Ruby is a type of corundum which crystallizes in the form of tabular and rhombodhedral prismatic crystals. This classic stone is usually a deep, brilliant red but can be found in shades of pink or lavender. Ruby can sometimes display asterism (a starlike luminosity in transmitted light) and also exhibit dichroism, (displaying crimson red and orange-red in the same stone.)
Location: Rubies are found in the United States, India, and Sri Lanka.
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius, Leo, Capricorn, Scorpio, and Cancer
Spiritual Uses: Ruby is known as a "stone of nobility," gathering and amplifying energy while promoting and stimulating mental concentration. It stimulates the heart chakra and can assist one in the selection and attainment of one's ultimate values. Ruby further stimulates the loving emotional side toward nurturing, bringing spiritual wisdom, health, knowledge, and wealth. It can improve one's success in controversies and disputes, encouraging gentleness and discouraging violence. Rubies help us in all matters of love, including love of ourselves. It is an excellent shielding stone, protecting on all levels and safeguarding one's consciousness from psychic attack. Ruby can protect one's home and the energy inside the home from "storms" and negativity and is especially effective if it is first touched to the four outside corners of the house. It can also be used to touch trees or the boundaries of a garden, magically protecting them from lightning and the effects of violent storms. Like Diamond, Ruby is an amplifier of energy-both positive and negative. It is a powerful stone whose stimulating energy can bring startling things to light. The color of Ruby, red, is commonly thought to be a color of passion, and so the Ruby has a passionate, intense energy about it. It should be used with knowledge of how to gain from the experience, for it can bring anger or negativity to the surface quickly. One can be overcome by the passion it stirs up if not ready to deal with it. Ruby brings negativity to the surface to be burned away or dispelled. Allow yourself to be purified by the experience, not overwhelmed. Ruby can also amplify positive energy, heightening whatever purity you already possess. This positive energy can form a storehouse of energy that one can draw upon when dealing with the negative issues Ruby can stir up. The Ruby is an energizing stone that stimulates motivation and visualization. They can help the user be more realistic about goals and more honest with intentions. Jewelry set with Rubies is worn to banish sadness and negative thought patterns. Such jewelry also produces joy, strengthens will power and confidence, and dispels fear.
Physical Uses: Ruby benefits the heart and circulatory system, and can assist in detoxification and filtration of the body. Ruby is also recommended for the eyes in some gem literature. Placed beneath the pillow or worn to bed, Ruby ensures restful sleep, undisturbed by nightmares. Ruby has been used to induce stability in one's economic status, and it has been said that as long as one retains a bit of Ruby, wealth will never depart. It is also said to have been used to protect the wearer/carrier against unhappiness, distressing dreams, and lightning. It has been used in the treatment of fever, and heart disorders relating to blood flow through the ventricles. It can be used also to decrease the length of time required for chemicals and toxins to exit the body. It can ameliorate the intake of caffeine, acting as a counter-balance to stimulants and can also help in the optimum formation of children in the embryonic state.
History: In thirteenth century magic, Rubies were well established as wealth-increasing stones. They were especially effective if engraved with the image of a dragon or snake before using. In India, ancient magicians thought that the possession of Rubies helps their owner to accumulate other precious gems, perhaps because of the stone's wealth-inducing qualities. The Ruby, if worn, was thought to convey invulnerability, or protection against all foes, wicked spirits, negativity, plague, fascination (magical manipulation), and famine. Rubies were valued above all other stones by Hindus because they preserved the bodily and mental health of the wearer by removing evil thoughts, controlling excessive desires, dissipating pestilential vapors, and reconciling disputes. In Burma (Myanmar), Rubies were valued for invulnerability. In order to attain this end, however, a Ruby had to be inserted into the flesh so that it could become part of the body. Those who embedded Rubies in their skin believed they could become invincible to any wounds caused by spears, swords, or guns. Ruby has long been a special mascot of soldiers, guarding against wounds in battle. The Ruby strengthens the body's own psychic defense system when worn.
Different Types: Star Rubies, which are rare stones with a naturally occurring six-pointed star, are thought to be particularly potent when used in protective magic (and other forms of magic.) This is because a spirit is thought to dwell within the stone. Star Rubies can be used also as divinatory tools by gazing at the crossed lines of light. The Star Rubies are also known as Ruby Crystals. They come from India and Madagascar and are superior crystals, exhibiting additional properties that include further access to the spiritual realms. With the Ruby Crystal, one may access ancient writings covering the esoteric principles of the religious movements, the structure and attributes of occult knowledge, and information from the akashic records relative to the development of the intuitive, psychic, and astral abilities. These crystals are now being used to assist in the intense focusing necessary for healing the Earth, for banishing and discouraging the destructive forces, and for the purification of the ethers. These crystals are said to have been used in Lemurian ceremonial activities and to maintain the psychic energies of that time period. They have also been used to facilitate access to the teachings of the ancient teachers of India.
The Ruby Crystals promote dreaming and stimulate the connection with, and transmission of information of, one's spiritual guides. Some of the Ruby Crystals are recognized as record-keepers, containing knowledge from the ancient realms of civilization and awaiting the opportunity to share the knowledge. Quite successful astral travels have occurred with the use of these crystals. The Ruby Crystal/Star Ruby has a unique power in its ability to purify and correct disoriented, trapped energy that leads to atrophy. It helps in the resolution of opposites, promoting the refinement of the will as a love-based force. It is and excellent stone for re-birthing and for releasing blockages which restrain one from one's spiritual path. The crystal acts also to arrest leakages of energy from the chakras and to transmute negative energy to the "golden realm of reasoning." The Ruby Crystal further acts to align the bodies-auric and physical-to the full light spectrum, encouraging the optimum state of health and being. It can also assist one in maintaining a connection with another person, with another area of the world, or with the Earth herself- allowing for the transmission of loving and gentle energy to the defined location. The Ruby Crystal has been used as a rod-like conductor for atmospheric electricity, providing a pathway, to the Earth and to the user, for electrical and magnetic forces. It further assists one in the conscious access of ethereal consciousness, providing a medium through which an understanding and an actualization of the healing process can be manifested.
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Sapphire
Description: Sapphire is a type of corundum that crystallizes in the form of tabular prismatic crystals with hexagonal double pyramid structures. The color range includes blue, white, black, purple (known as Oriental Amethyst), yellow (known as Oriental Topaz), and green, (known as Oriental Emerald). When most people discuss Sapphire, they are referring to the beautiful deep blue Sapphire.
Location: Sapphires are found in the United States, Australia, and India
Astrological Sign: Virgo, Libra, Gemini, Taurus, Capricorn and Sagittarius
Spiritual Uses: Sapphire can be used to rid one of unwanted thoughts and to bring joy and peace of mind via opening the mind to beauty and intuition. The Sapphire brings lightness and joy, with depth or beauty and thought, to the user/wearer. It is known as a "stone of prosperity," sustaining the gifts of life, eliminating frustration, and fulfilling the dreams and the desires of the consciousness. The best way, some say, to describe the stone is by comparing it to the beauty of the night sky. It has the same serenity, endless quiet, and calm of a peaceful view from a remote mountaintop. One can bask in its soothing environment and let distraction and negativity flow away. Sapphires help one to find the best way to contemplate the peacefulness of existence, lessening tension and aligning the mental, physical, and spiritual planes. Sapphire can be a very good stone for people with spiritual confusion or depression, those involved in situations out of their control, and anyone with concentration problems. It will help one to get more in touch with their true essence and help one to understand their role in the workings of the universe. People who meditate will find the Sapphire a helpful stone. It can be contemplated upon to expand wisdom, and when worn, promotes peace. The Sapphire is worn to stimulate psychic awareness by opening the third eye center. The Sapphire, some say, even has the ability to tap into the subconscious mind. It is a guardian of love, promoting fidelity and attuning the feelings between lovers. Anciently, it was also worn to banish envy, to promote positive social interaction, and to reconcile with foes. Sapphire can be used for all those purposes within any kind of relationship, not just marital. The stone's use in defensive magic stretches back to antiquity, and was once thought to "scare devils and evil away." Today, it is worn in protective jewelry and during rituals designed to return negativity to its sender. It has a legendary ability, also, to guard its owner from captivity, and today is used by those involved in litigation and legal matters, possibly because it banishes fraud. It will only work however, if its wearer is in the right.
Physical Uses: Sapphire can help to restore balance through its ability to ease stress and tension. This helps dispel illness or disease, which are often a result of an imbalance within the body. Sapphire is utilized in healing the body, especially the eyes, which are strengthened by its presence. It also reduces fevers and, when pressed to the forehead, halts bleeding from the nose. Sapphires are worn as general health-protectants, for, the stronger and healthier a body, the less chance "evil spirits" have to do harm. The stone is worn in rituals to strengthen the magician's ability to tap and send forth power. Generally, Sapphires are worn as jewelry, but they are also utilized in money and wealth-attracting rituals.
History: Historically, Sapphire has been used as an eye stone, or replacement eye. It was said, by Albertus Magnus, to remove all impurities or foreign bodies. He further wrote that he had seen it employed for this purpose, adding that when a Sapphire is used in this way, it should be dipped in cold water both before and after the operation. (This was a necessary precaution probably intended as a way to cleanse the stone, important at a time when a variety of people suffering from contagious diseases of the eyes used the same stone.) Sapphire has also been used historically to cure plague boils. Von Helmont has said that a gem of fine, deep color was to be selected and rubbed gently and slowly around the pestilential tumor. During and immediately after this operation the patient would feel little alleviation, but a good while after the removal of the stone, favorable symptoms would appear, provided the malady were not too far advanced. This ability was attributed to a magnetic force in Sapphire by means of which the absent gem then continued to extract "the pestilential virulence and contagious poison from the infected part." Legend and tradition claim that the law given to Moses was engraved on tablets of Sapphire (however, the tablets were probably of Lapis Lazuli because Sapphire does not come in the size necessary to engrave such a list.) It has also been said to preserve its wearer from envy, and to attract divine favor. Damigeron has noted that Sapphire is a regal gem and asserts that kings wore it about their neck as a powerful defense against harm. The Bishop of Rennes, in the twelfth century, lavished praise upon Sapphire and recommended its use in rings. It was said also to banish fraud and was valued by necromancers for its ability to help them hear and understand particularly obscure oracles. Like the Emerald, it was considered an antidote against poison. The Greeks identified the Sapphire with Apollo, and the stone was worn when consulting oracles such as the famous one at Delphi.
Different Types: Blue Sapphires correspond to the sign of Gemini and assist healing in all parts of the body. They stimulate the throat chakra and assist in communication. They also assist in providing strength to the user, helping one in endeavors of diversification. This crystal makes available the structure and attributes of mystical knowledge, and information from the records relative to the development of the civilization, and the intuitive, psychic, and astral selves. This crystal is one said to be implanted upon the Earth by kind and generous ancient Earth-Keepers, in order to assist us in learning to live with kindness, to learn with compassion, and to understand with appreciation. They are now being used to assist in the intense energy transfer necessary for healing the Earth, for ameliorating those forces that can be detrimental to the environment, and for the purification of the realm. The Blue Sapphire has been known as the "stone of uniformity," bringing authenticity to one's action and encouraging the progression of humanity toward the fulfillment and well-being which is waiting. It can assist in purifying and rectifying disoriented, trapped energy that leads to retrogression in one's life. It helps in the resolution of disparity, promoting the purification of the will to further cohesiveness with unconditional love. It further acts to stimulate the throat chakra, to align the chakras, and to encourage the optimum state of interaction between the self and others. It acts also to arrest leakages of energy from the chakras and to transmute negative energy. It can assist one in maintaining a connection with the Earth and to promote cleansing of the atmospheric energies. It is also an excellent stone for re-birthing and for releasing blockages that restrain one from one's spiritual path. Some of these crystals are recognized as record-keepers, containing knowledge from the ancient realms of civilization and awaiting the opportunity to share it. Astral travel has been quite successful with the use of these crystals.
Black Sapphire is affiliated with the sign of Sagittarius and provides for protection and centering of both the body and the inherent energy forces. It also provides a grounding force, relieving mental anxiety and dispelling doubtfulness of intuition. It is an excellent stone to carry when seeking employment and/or maintaining the same.
Green Sapphire is affiliated with Gemini and Leo and enhances the sight on the physical plane, stimulating loyalty, and encouraging the remembering of dreams. It stimulates the heart chakra and is known as a "stone of fidelity." It provides impetus and means to help improve conditions on the physical plane.
Indigo Sapphire is affiliated with the sign of Sagittarius. It provides for alertness and attentiveness, stimulating the center of the third-eye and inspiring creativity in the higher realms of psychic awareness. It acts as a reminder that the total responsibility for one's thoughts and feelings lies with the self. It further assists in eliminating the negative energies from the chakras and from the aura and facilitates the understanding of one's responsibilities, providing for guidance in acceptance of the same. It is a "stone of encouragement," strengthening one's ambition to continue pursuits and to grow toward the "unreachable" horizon. It has been used in the treatment of disorders of the brain and to ameliorate dyslexic conditions in the young.
Parti Sapphire is affiliated with the signs of Gemini, Virgo, and Cancer. It is found in Australia and is a combination of several colors of Sapphire, including green, blue, yellow, and colorless. This configuration of Sapphire has been used to stimulate all of the chakras of the associated colors and to cleanse and to activate the same. It has been used in Tibetan Pulsing exercises to promote the development of the heart towards innocence, allowing the mind to become unattached to problems. The heart lives only "in the moment," providing the rhythmic pulsing, always desiring to unify and to meld with other hearts. The positive energy of the heart neutralizes negative energy through relaxation. Pain is transmuted into pleasure, anguish and distress into relief, and tears into exhilaration. The Parti Sapphire has facilitated transformation of disorders, including eating disorders, which have been eliminated via the discharge of the tension held in the Vagus Nerve. By relieving this tension with Parti Sapphire, one is able to understand the need for love from outside of the self, and to transform to a new sensitivity, bringing a true love for the self. This mineral also serves to enable one to relate to others with more sympathy and friendship.
Purple Sapphire is affiliated with the sign of Virgo and enhances spirituality and diminishes attention to the unnecessary cares and worries of the world. It can be used to stimulate meditation and to awaken the crown chakra. It has been used to clear the path through the chakras such that the movement of the Kundalini is unimpaired. The Purple Sapphire initiates the advance to spirituality, bringing a condition of peace and oneness to the user. It is known as a "stone of awakening."
Star Sapphire is affiliated with the signs of Sagittarius and Capricorn and enhances the centering of one's thoughts. The knowledge of human nature is brought forth to the user and the stone enhances the ability to understand the intentions of another. It helps to make one cheerful and friendly. It can also facilitate contact with the advanced beings of planetary worlds other than the Earth plane and is known as a "stone of wisdom and good luck," helping one to regain the conscious recognition of the perfect order of the universe which exists at birth.
White Sapphire is affiliated with the sign of Leo. It provides for focus and directing of attention, stimulating the crown chakra and revealing the talents of the self. It also encourages the pursuit of one's lifework. It is a stone which supports morality, justice, and freedom from greed.
Yellow Sapphire is affiliated with the sign of Leo and is the helper of the Hindu God, Ganesh. Ganesh is a bringer of prosperity to the home, and the Yellow Sapphire is a bringer of wealth. Many merchants in the Far East wear the Yellow Sapphire, or keep it on the body. If it is worn, the stone is set such that a portion of the stone itself is touching the body. Yellow Sapphire brings endurance, fulfillment of ambition, and the emanation of a pleasant rapport to the user. It continues to stimulate the intellect, allowing for the emergence of the "big picture" with the focus of the "puddle." It stimulates intensity and vivacity, enhancing one's wisdom. In ancient times, it is said to have been used to protect the user from poverty and from snakebite. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the stomach, the spleen, the gall bladder, and the liver. It has also been used, as an elixir, to eliminate toxins from the body.
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Selenite
Description: Selenite is a form of crystallized gypsum, found in the form of colorless to white tabular crystals and needle-like crystals. It is a clear, layered mineral, superficially resembling Calcite.
Astrological Sign: Selenite is affiliated with the sign of Taurus
Spiritual Uses: Selenite provides for clarity of the mind, expanding one's awareness of the self and of one's surroundings. It can be used to access past-lives as well as future lives-the future lives being those which are probable at this time, if one's physical life proceeds in the direction in which it is now going. This access is provided by rubbing the crystalline structure with a finger or thumb. During this activation process, when the meditative state is attained, the visual images will begin. It should be noted that the access to the future is also compatible to this life- one will be presented with situations that are very likely to occur during this life on this plane (dependant upon the course of progress one chooses during one's lifetime). Selenite has been used to decrease reticence and to assist one in the acquisition of materialistic pursuits related to business. It can also assist one in issues of judgment and can provide the required insight and ameliorative energies to promote justice during adjudication of disputes. Selenite can cut through unconscious assumptions and promote the re-connection between the conscious self and the mystic that lives within the super-consciousness. Selenite can be used to provide both flexibility to one's nature and strength to one's decisions. It allows one to see the inner workings of any situation and to understand the superficial and the deeper meanings inherent in the same. It also allows one to access the interior of the physical body in order to understand existing disorders, providing information with respect to the "fix."
Physical Uses: Selenite has been used to align the spinal column, by traversing the spinal column from the base of the spine to the back of the head. This seems to remove energy blockages, while traversing in the opposite direction seems to smooth the flow of energy. It can also promote flexibility within the muscular structure. Selenite can be used to provide amelioration of disorders associated with poisoning due to the metals in the "fillings" of the teeth. It can be used also to facilitate regeneration of the cellular structure and the protective membrane linings that surround the cells- hence, providing a tool to both prevent and to overcome damage caused by the well-known "free radical." Examples of the effects that can be overcome include cancer, tumors, age spots, wrinkles, and light sensitivity. Selenite can also be used to correct disorders and deformities of the skeletal system, and to stabilize epileptic disorders, as well as being used to extend one's life span.
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Smokey Quartz
Description: Smokey Quartz is a form of Quartz occurring in masses, crystals, etc. The color range includes light smokey gray to dark smokey grey, black, and medium-to-dark brown.
Location: Smokey Quartz can be found in the United States, Brazil, and Scotland.
Astrological Sign: Capricorn and Sagittarius, also all signs of the zodiac
Spiritual Uses: Like other brownish colored stones, Smokey Quartz is closely in tune with the anchoring energy of the earth. It has an ability to neutralize negative influences and is a passive means to change, useful when caution is necessary or gradual change is called for. The stone can penetrate and transform negative emotions and negative energy patterns, tending to penetrate and dissolve energy fields that have been generated from negative thought forms, anger, and resentment. It can be used to refine the vibratory energies when one is in the state of meditation, allowing for both the clarity of thought and the elimination of too much willfulness. Smokey Quartz can be used to initiate a powerful force field that will absorb many forms of negativity, both from within oneself and from outer sources. The stone has an energy that is prolonged, yet intense and gentle, in its action. On higher levels, such as in meditation, simply holding the stone will serve you well. It is an excellent grounding stone, enhancing attentiveness to the moment and producing the grounding aspects necessary during the meditative state in order to stimulate higher awareness. Smokey Quartz also has protective qualities, and provides for an encompassing barrier of energy around the user. It also provides for balancing of the yin-yang energy and can be used to facilitate the alignment of the meridians of the physical body with the meridians of the ethereal body. It can help one with mind balance, energy balance, and balancing and attuning the energies required for spiritual development. If one is worried and desires to set aside the thinking mind and to clear the mental channels, Smokey Quartz can facilitate. It can be used to relieve barriers that may exist between the beta and alpha state of the mind.
Physical Uses: Smokey Quartz is often used for ailments of the lower torso. The reproductive organs, muscle tissue, heart, and nervous system all profit from Smokey Quartz's presence. Concern for the environment and understanding of nature are heightened by Smokey Quartz. The energy of this mineral is especially applicable to the areas of the solar plexus and the chakras located at the hands and the feet. It has been used to bring creativity to business and to encourage astute-ness in purchasing. It is a "stone of cooperation," stimulating the unification of energies directed toward the same goal. It works to diffuse communication deficiencies and to dissolve mental and emotional blockages that limit perception and learning. Smokey Quartz has the ability to facilitate the regulation of liquids within the body, due to the presence of sodium in clear quartz, which produces the Smokey Quartz. It can produce a state of equilibrium within the body with respect to mineral supplementation. It can be used also to dissipate congestion from the physical organs and glands located in the solar plexus area, and to relieve disorders of the hands and feet.
History: Smokey Quartz has been used in tribal ceremonies to enhance stability and to provide protection from any detrimental forces present in the ethereal realm.
Different Types: Smokey/Clear Quartz produces a melding of the properties of Smokey Quartz and Clear Quartz. It has also been used to assist one in matters of discrimination and in delineation of those actions required in one's life to facilitate the furtherance of objectives in any situation. Ease of energy application is promoted by the Smokey Quartz acting to ground the energy of the Clear Quartz. The combination of Citrine/Smokey Quartz has been found in Brazil. The energies of these minerals are merged to produce a dynamic healing stone. The Citrine acts to cleanse the energies of the Smokey and Clear Quartz, and the Smokey Quartz provides grounding for all endeavors.
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Tiger's Eye
Description: Tiger's eye is a quartz replacement of crocidolite (blue asbestos) or of gold asbestos. It differs from the stone called Cat's eye because of the configuration of the fibers, which are twisted or crumpled instead of straight. The reflection of light by the fibrous structure makes it exhibit the quality of chatoyency. The color ranges from various shades of light or dark brown, having fibrous inclusions that add luminosity to the stone. It also comes in red, brown, gold, cream, black, and blue. Tiger's eye does resemble a feline eye if properly cut and polished. This stone brings together the vibrations of sand and sunlight, synthesizing the energies of the Sun and the Earth. It combines the qualities of sharpness and grounding, and it is quite a practical stone in its sphere of concern. It resonates to the frequencies of the Earth, encouraging stability tempered with dynamic beauty.
Location: The most important mine for Tiger Eye is in South Africa. The best stones come from Griqualand West. Tiger's eye is also mined in Western Australia, South Africa, USA, Canada, India, Namibia, and Burma.
Astrological Sign: Capricorn
Spiritual Uses: The vibration of Tiger's eye is conducive to peacefulness and stimulates the actions required to advance the encounters with others during the meditative state. It is helpful for individuals seeking clarity and for those who must deal intelligently with the scattered details that must be brought together in some pattern. It can be used to enhance the psychic abilities and can assist in the gentle attunement of third-eye activity. Tiger's eye is best adapted to "earthy" people. At the base chakra, it can help to discipline sexual and emotional well-being, and can bring "light" to instances where one must be practical. Tiger's eye can help one to become practical and of a discrete mind, as well as to be more grounded. It can eliminate the "blues" and can bring brightness and optimism to the user. It assists in providing insight to those issues that induce internal mental battles, delivering one from dilemmas and the conflicts associated with willful pride. It further promotes one to admire the pure and beautiful things in life, and to allow them into one's life. It also helps one's passion for life to open and to blossom. Tiger's eye provides for balancing of the yin-yang energy, further assisting in the integration and balancing of both hemispheres of the brain and bringing awareness to perception. Tiger's eye is a great preparatory mineral, helping to prepare the systems of the body for the approach of enthusiasm for flowing with "the river of humanity" toward the "one." It further acts to attune one to the connectedness of the brothers and sisters of the planet, releasing introversion and fear, while promoting experiences that are fresh and new. It stimulates understanding with respect to disparity between the pleasure of "wishing" and the act of "having." It tends also to bring awareness of one's personal needs as well as the needs of others. Ruled by the Sun and possessing a golden flash of light, Tiger's eye is worn to strengthen convictions and create courage and confidence. It can be carried for protection against all forms of danger, especially when set in gold.
Physical Uses: Tiger's eye has been used in the treatment of disorders of the eye, the throat, the diverticular constrictions, the reproductive system, and to aid in night vision. It can also be used to strengthen the alignment of the spinal column and to facilitate the mending of broken bones. It has been used to stimulate wealth and to enhance the stability required to maintain wealth. It produces vibrations that are soothing, which generate a calmness to unsettled turmoil, and allow one to enjoy the actions of being unfenced and uninhibited. Tiger's eye is a warm stone, and it promotes energy flow through the body when worn. It is also beneficial for the weak or sick.
History: Roman soldiers wore Tiger's eye engraved with symbols for protection during battle.
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Topaz
Description: Topaz crystallizes in the form of water worn pebbles and prismatic crystals. It is sometimes found vertically striated and sometimes with well-developed terminations. The most common Topaz has a radiant yellow color, but it can also be found in shades of green, blue, and brown, as well as pink, green red, gold, yellow, blue, white, red-yellow, brown, gray, and colorless.
Location: It has been found in the United States, Mexico, Brazil, and Sri Lanka.
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius, Leo, Aries, and Gemini
Spiritual Uses: Topaz can promote creativity and individuality, while providing for confidence in trusting one's decisions. It is known as a "stone of true love and success in all endeavors," and can help one to replace negativity with love and joyfulness. Its radiant yellow color is stimulating but in a way that is very mellow. Topaz sends out its golden rays of energy in all directions, and one should think about this ability to send out rays of warmth and light when using Topaz. The rays are soothing, healing, and life-giving. The stone has a benevolent nature and sends out its positive energy to all who need it. This mineral helps one to understand the interrelationships occurring in the minute detail which comprises the "big picture" and the actions occurring in "the big picture" itself. It helps one to feel comfortable with the potential outcome of a situation without "doing" and promotes the expression of ideas, instilling a trust in the universe. It can also assist one in "cutting-through" the curtains of uncertainty, promoting astute reasoning abilities and the release of feelings of annoyance stemming from doubt. The energy of Topaz acts through the laws of attraction and manifestation, serving as a catalyst for the manifestation activities. The vibratory resonance acts with an ethereal magnetic effect. The ends and facets of a Topaz crystal provide both positive and negative energy currents, which is quite different from the action of Quartz. These alternating currents are linked via the ethers to the forces of manifestation through which attraction and desire are promulgated. The Topaz acts as a conductor for messages when a request is directed through the Topaz to the object or to the thought form that is desired. The stone sends the message to the ethers via a closed circuit of current that penetrates the energy field related to manifestation. The message then gets relayed to the universal mind, which, in turn, refines the information and assures that the intent is for the good of all. This happens before the transmission is sent directly toward actualization on the physical plane. The energies of Topaz transcend both time and space, inducing finely-tuned cooperation and rewards which grow from the idea which one desires to manifest. Topaz is a "crystal of potency," and is quite instrumental in visualization (for healing and attracting), in meditation, and in projection. It can help one to absorb that which is needed from the universe, prompting receptivity and willingness to act. It enhances awareness and induces states of expansiveness and manifestation, as well as helping one to creatively change one's personal world.
Physical Uses: Topaz is good for those who are in crisis or in need of motivation. It is another gemstone that is used for protective purposes, and is considered a specific against envy, intrigue, disease, injury, sudden death, sorcery and negative magic, and lunacy. It was thought to be especially effective when set in gold and bound to the left arm. When worn, Topaz relieves depression, anger, fear, greed, frenzies, and all disturbing emotions. It recharges and increases the user's energy level. It can be used to manifest health and to correct disorders within the body. It has been used in the treatment for the loss of sense of taste, and in the healing of wounds and skin eruptions. Used as an elixir, Topaz is excellent for dispersing the energy throughout the entire body. It can be taken internally and used topically. The elixir is used to direct the visualized state of well-being to the area desired. Topaz is also used as a charm against fire and accidents when placed in the home. Put in under your pillow to fend off nightmares and end sleepwalking. Topaz is used to regulate the digestive system and to relieve the pain of rheumatism and arthritis. It has also been worn for weight loss. Wearing a Topaz is also said to draw love. Topaz may be used in a silver wand and provides an additional conductor to both transmit and activate that upon which there is conscious focus. Consciously directed to the psychic channels where the health aura can be accessed, the energies projected from the Topaz crystal can modify and alter the atoms of this area. This usage can aid significantly in the removal of "useless" elements within the aura, making room for expansion and reconstruction to occur. The alternating current of the Topaz crystal working through the silver wand provides for an additional conductivity factor that amplifies the force field, allowing for the maximum utilization of the potential energy.
History: St. Hildegard recommended the use of Topaz to cure dimness of vision. The stone was supposed to be placed in wine and left for three days and three nights. After this time, the patient was to rub his or her eyes with the moistened Topaz so that the moisture lightly touched the eyeball. The wine could be used for five days after the stone was removed, presumably to be drunk by the patient. This piece of historical lore is one of the first references to the use of gem elixirs. A Roman physician in the fifteenth-century was reported to have wrought many wonderful cures of those victims of the plague by touching plague sores with a Topaz that had been owned by two Popes, Clement VI and Gregory II. The fact that the stone was owned by two pontiffs must have added much to the faith of those exposed to its curative powers. The African bushmen consider the Topaz to be quite precious, using it in ceremonies for healing and for connecting with the spirits who have departed from this plane. It is considered to bring wealth and health to the holder.
Different Types: Blue Topaz is affiliated with the signs of Sagittarius and Virgo and can additionally stimulate the throat chakra. This helps one to consciously, succinctly, and clearly verbalize that which one desires to manifest and/or that which one desires to communicate. It assists one in bringing the body, mind, and spirit into union with the forces of the perfection of the universe. It helps one also to be unburdened by arrogance and unconfined by passion, allowing one to see all things as equally important in the overall scheme of life.
Golden Topaz is affiliated with the signs of Sagittarius, Leo, and Pisces. It can be used as a path to conscious attunement with the rational principle that rules and governs this universe. If one intends to attune to this "structure," the reasons behind the communication need to be clear and concise. Golden Topaz can be used like a battery if one needs to be recharged with energy. It acts also as a repository stone that stores information, as well as energy, thoughts, and love. It can be quite useful for stimulating and activating the first three chakras and the crown chakra. It can be used also to enhance relaxation, to create lightness of spirit, and to stimulate feelings of peace. It can be used to attract people toward its user for friendship or business, and one must be careful that this is not used for selfish purposes. Sometimes those wearing Golden Topaz become so busy with the mundane that there is little time left for the sacred. The stone can act to initiate faith, however, and to further the quest for the enlightened state. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the liver, gall bladder, and endocrine glands.
Multi-colored Topaz is good for all signs of the zodiac. It brings the qualities of the individual colors to synthesis and further assists one in the re-direction of energy and in the analysis of one's own patterns of emotional thinking and development, based on free associative ideals. This reveals to the conscious mind the thoughts and experiences previously unrecognized, and stimulates remedial action for emotional disturbances and over-emotional states. It provides for smooth states of meditation and enhances mental travel to other parts of the current world. It can also facilitate trance states that take the user to the pre-determined destination, stimulating a total awareness (at that location) to both recognize and to understand the nature of the visit. It can be used in the treatment of pneumonia, to clear the mucous from the lungs, and to provide for the stabilization of the inner walls of the lungs. It can also be used to treat chronic inflammatory conditions of the skin, assisting also in the efficient conversion of carbohydrates to energy. It also regulates the proper flow of insulin to the blood stream.
Sheet Topaz is affiliated with the sign of Leo and occurs in a horizontal flat formation. Its color ranges from clear to white to very pale blue and very pale green. It combines the properties of Topaz with the actualization of knowledge, bringing a window to other dimensions. It promotes the access of information from the astral plane and the akashic records, allowing one to see within the inner self. The action of looking within the self with the Sheet Topaz has allowed one to recognize disordered states and to mentally rearrange and reorganize the disarray of disease. It has the ability to stimulate the heart chakra, the throat chakra, the third-eye, and the crown chakra, and is an excellent tool for communication between the self and other worlds. It can be used also to stimulate visualization and visionary experiences and to actuate the higher psychic abilities. Sheet Topaz has also been used for "gazing" and for sending and receiving messages. It can be used to stimulate contact with the ethereal planes of resolution, and in the meditative or non-meditative state, answers to problems of all magnitudes seem to manifest quickly. It has been used in the treatment of disorders of, and for pain in, the throat, the heart, and the back of the head. It has also been used to relieve headaches.
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Tourmaline
Description: Tourmaline crystallizes in the form of vertically striated prismatic crystals, sometimes slender and sometimes needle-like. The color range includes deep pink to red to red-violet (rubellite), blue (indicolite), yellow (also known as "Peridot of Ceylon" and as Tsilasite), brown (dravide), green, pink (elbaite), orange, black (aphrizite and schlor), colorless (achroite), bi-colored, tri-colored, and colorless.
Location: Tourmaline is found in the United States, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia
Astrological Sign: Libra
Spiritual Uses: Tourmaline rids the user of specific problem-causing elements. It diffuses and dissipates the effects of negative energy on individual existence, bringing about clarity and calmness. Tourmaline's energy relates to each of the chakras, acting to maintain, clear, and stimulate each of the energy centers of the body. It can be used to attract inspiration. Tourmaline provides for a balancing of the male/female energies within the body, further providing for balancing of the mind, of the energy centers, and of the aura. It helps to align the mental processes and chakras with the ethereal structure. Its balancing ability extends further to stimulate balance between the left and right sides of the brain, enhancing cooperative efforts in the areas of creativity and healing. Tourmaline helps its user to gain a more balanced understanding of the purpose for existence. The stone will not give answers, but it is capable of bringing to light startling, occasionally painful, information. It helps one to maintain fortitude and laughter while retaining consciousness as well as helping one to release the concept of being the victim.
Physical Uses: This stone can diminish fear by promoting understanding, and encouraging self-confidence. Tourmaline helps the body to function without strain. Tourmaline focuses its effects generally on specific problem areas, but also is capable of working in a general way as a cleansing stone. A unique property that occurs when a Tourmaline crystal gets heated is that it develops opposing electrical charges at opposite ends of the crystal. Tourmaline's aspects are enhanced when used in the wand formation. These are used to clear the aura, to energize the appropriate chakras, to balance the meridians of the physical body, and to facilitate the optimum balance inherent in the ethereal body. The wand is used to clearly direct the energy.
History: In ancient East India, Tourmaline was used to provide direction toward that which would bring "good" and it was also known as a "teller" stone, providing insight during times of struggle and "telling" of who or what is causing trouble. African shamans have used Tourmaline to promote the awakening from the "dream of illusion" and the promotion of the experience of the self as a part of the universal spirit. The stone has also been used by shamans among the Native American and Aboriginal cultures. It is thought to provide protection from all dangers occurring on the physical plane as well as bringing healing powers to the user.
Different Types: Black Tourmaline is related to the astrological sign of Capricorn. It is also known as Schorl and Aphrizite. This stone can be used to both repel and protect against negativity. For those with the potential for exposure to excessive amounts of radiation, it is a powerful ally, with the ability to be used as an energy deflector. It acts to protect one from being victimized by the negative energy of another. It can maintain one's "spirits" even in conditions appearing to be gloomy. It also provides for an increase in one's physical vitality, intellectual acuity, and emotional stability. Black Tourmaline is a protective stone against spells that are cast by the negative side of another. It is a special stone to Native American Indians. When it is found in quartz, not only does it dispel the spell that was sent, but also energizes the "victim," increasing their well-being. When used with mica, it returns the spell to the originator, allowing one to view the sender of the negative energies. Black Tourmaline is used to activate grounding between the first chakra and the center of the Earth, providing for one's well-being on the physical plane, and protecting against those spirits who are not in the light or who do not understand the power of love. It is used for grounding purposes and to represent the earth in spells relating to that element. Unlike most black stones it does not absorb negative energy, but repels it. Many gem experts suggest carrying this stone when you feel surrounded by negativity. It is very valuable for crises and for periods of extreme stress. It can be used in the treatment of arthritis, dyslexia, heart disease, anxiety, and disorientation. It acts also to stimulate the reflex points associated with the lower back. It can provide for the stimulation and balancing of the adrenal glands. The stone defends against debilitating diseases, such as those that have life-threatening crisis points or that do sustained damage over long periods of times, such as heart disease or arthritis.
Blue Tourmaline is related to the astrological signs of Libra and Taurus and can be used to assist one in relating to others in a loving manner, bringing the true impressions to the surface. It is also used to activate the throat chakra and the third-eye, strengthening the skills associated with communication and psychic awareness. It is worn to de-stress, for peace, and restful sleep. Blue Tourmaline activates one's progression towards service, and helps one to recognize the rewards of this service in the areas of knowledge expansion and helping all to realize the power of love. Access to the higher levels of intuition is granted through the use of Blue Tourmaline, which stimulates the third-eye chakra. This stone can be used in the treatment of disorders of the lungs, throat, larynx, esophagus, thymus, and thyroid. Neon blue has been used in diagnosing disease and in assisting in the recognition of causal factors, and Dark Blue has been used in the treatment of disorders associated with the eyes and brain.
Brown Tourmaline is related to the sign of Aries and can be used to clear the aura and to stimulate the auric body. This helps to align the energy of the optimum self to the physical body. Brown Tourmaline is a protective stone on the subtle levels, bringing the presence of the Earth to the peace of the higher self. It can be used it the treatment of disorders of the intestinal tract and to reduce spots on the skin. It has also been used to stimulate the growth of plants.
Colorless Tourmaline is related to the sign of Aquarius. It aligns the energy centers and meridians of the physical body to the optimum energy centers and meridians of the ethereal body. It can be used to activate the crown chakra, instilling the concept of progress toward service. Colorless Tourmaline also provides for a synthesis of the metaphysical and healing properties of the other colors of Tourmaline. It is an excellent healing stone, generally, combining the forces of all Tourmaline properties.
Green Tourmaline is related to the sign of Capricorn and is used to draw money and success in business. It can be worn to stimulate creativity or placed in a coin purse or piggy bank to attract wealth. The stone can also help to teach its user how to be guided by their heart, for it opens the heart chakra. It may be used to assist in the attunement of energy between the third-eye and the heart. It is considered by some gem healers the strongest of all green stones. Green Tourmaline holds the essence of the plant kingdom, providing an energy conducive to healing plants. It tends to readily transfer energy from the mineral kingdom to the vegetable dimension of vibrations. It can be used to increase the effectiveness of herbs and plants in healing. Green Tourmaline has the ability to transform negative energy to the positive state without releasing it to the atmosphere, acting also to inspire creativity within, to attract success, prosperity and abundance. It is extremely beneficial for the nervous system, the brain, and the immune system. It gives one a highly refined sense of how to best recognize and deal with a problem, also stimulating creativity and communication. Energetic and rejuvenating, it helps one to follow through with a problem to its conclusion. This stone can be used in the treatment of disorders relating to the eyes, and also to facilitate weight loss. It helps to regenerate the thymus, ductless glands, the immune system, and the heart. It has also been used as a purgative.
Orange Tourmaline is very rare, and has been found in Africa. It is usually found with the yellow and red colors included. Orange Tourmaline stimulates the navel chakra and enhances one's creativity, intuition of the physical plane, and sexuality. It can provide for a furthering of desire (the direction of the desire being governed by the intellect) and for a leveling of emotions. It can be used in the treatment of disorders related to the reproductive system, to infertility and/or frigidity, and to intestinal disorders.
Pink Tourmaline is related to the sign of Libra, although Leo, Aries, and Cancer also have an affinity for this stone. Like most pink stones, it soothes the emotions and eases the creative process. People with difficulties in relationships or those afraid of being hurt in matters of love will benefit from this stone and its calming influence. It promotes the sharing of emotions. Its energy relates to creativity, stimulating the crown chakra and the heart chakra and helping to bring forth the synthesis of love and spirituality. It also enhances the higher aspects of the state of love, helping one to maintain the connection between the self and the whole of the universe. It allows one to trust in the power of love, promoting feelings of joy and enthusiasm for life by releasing destructive tendencies. Pink Tourmaline also promotes joy and peace during periods of growth and changes when the changes are being guided toward the furtherance of the spirit and the growth of humanity toward enlightenment. It is a stone to assist one in the attainment of peace and understanding, trust and awareness, and love. It is a special stone to give to one you hope will love you. It is said to draw love and friendship and can be worn to promote sympathy toward others. Pink Tourmaline helps you accept the past and work out whatever problems still exist, making you more open to new experiences. It acts as a holistic healer, bringing the body toward unification in order to treat a disorder. It has been used to assist in the release of disorders related to dysfunctional endocrine activities and to treat disorders of the heart, lungs, and skin. Take it as an elixir internally or apply it topically.
Rubellite Tourmaline is related to the signs of Sagittarius and Scorpio and is also known as Red/Red-Violet/Deep Pink Tourmaline. Rubellite Tourmaline strengthens the will to understand love and to inspire tactfulness in independence. It promotes creativity in the various realms of loving aspirations. It can be used to stimulate the base chakra and to provide for a direct pathway between the base chakra and the heart chakra. It can, therefore, be used to direct and to intensify devotional activities. Rubellite Tourmaline stimulates the healing qualities of the heart and the associated attributes of loving consciousness. It also provides physical energy and vitality to the physical body, activating all of the qualities of the base chakra. It can be used in the treatment of disorders of the digestive system, the heart, lungs, pancreas, and reproductive system. It has also been used in the repair of the reproductive system and to provide for balance in the structure of the blood vessels and veins.
Watermelon Tourmaline is related to the astrological signs of Virgo and Gemini. It consists of an interior of red or pink Tourmaline encased in Green Tourmaline. A broken or sliced Watermelon Tourmaline looks much like the fruit for which it is named. This stone shows us by example how opposites work together. Pink is a pale shade of red, the complementary opposite of green. Balance results from this combination. The energy of Green Tourmaline is a problem-solving one; it helps us accept the past and make the present as comfortable as possible. Add to this Pink Tourmaline's energy, which makes us more loving, sensitive, and understanding in conflicts, and the result is a stone that helps us anticipate the direction a situation is going to take. Watermelon Tourmaline is a stone that teaches the lesson that only by understanding can we find true peace. It can be worn to balance the projective and receptive energies within the body, and is also a love-attracting stone. It works best for this purpose when used by balanced persons. Watermelon Tourmaline has an activating effect on the heart chakra, providing for stimulation, energizing, and connection with the heart chakra of the higher-self. It helps one to allow oneself the experience of the beauty of nature, while diminishing emotionalism. It enhances cooperative efforts and inspires tact in all situations. This stone encourages one to look past the seriousness of an experience or a situation and to recognize both the benefit of, and the humor in, the experience/situation. It has been used in the treatment of nervousness, disorders of the heart and lungs, and in dysfunctions of the emotional system.
Yellow Tourmaline is related to the sign of Leo. It stimulated the solar plexus, enhancing personal power and intellectual pursuits. It also relates to the cycles in one's life, helping one to bring to an opening, or to a closing, that which would benefit one's personal growth. It can activate creativity and initiative in business and employment, and can stimulate spiritual development by helping one to logically conclude that the pathway is open and inviting. Use this stone in the treatment of disorders associated with the spleen, liver, kidneys, gall bladder, and stomach.
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Turquoise
Description: Turquoise crystallizes in the form of stalactites, veins, masses, crusts, and sometimes, short, small, and brilliantly colored, prismatic crystals. It ranges in color from sky blue to a soft green-blue.
Location: Turquoise is found in the United States, France, and Tibet.
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius, Pisces, and Scorpio, also for those born in the month of December
Spiritual Uses: Turquoise strengthens and aligns all chakras, meridians, and subtle bodies. It actually elevates all chakras and can facilitate attunement between the physical level and the higher planes of existence. It can bring any and all energies to a higher level. It primarily stimulates the throat, heart, and navel chakras, bringing communication skills to emotional issues, to creativity, and to intuition, while allowing for the application of love in all issues. It is great for spiritual attunement, for healing and cleansing of both the energy centers and the physical body, and for providing protection. It is valuable to provide strength and protection during vision quests and astral travel and is a stone of high spirituality, bringing both valor and protection on the spiritual level, and from the etheric plane. It is known as a healer of the spirit and provides for a soothing energy that brings peace of mind. Turquoise has been known also to guide one through the unknown, protecting while promoting one's independence in action. It can be used also to balance the male/female aspects of one's character and to bring forth mental and spiritual clarity, balancing the energies. The stone has been said to assist one in communication, both oral and written, so that when the information is relayed to others, it is both direct and correct. Psychic powers are increased by the use of Turquoise, and it can help one to develop one's innate talents. It acts to induce understanding and wisdom, and to enhance trust, kindness, and the recognition of beauty. Turquoise can be worn to attract new friends, to be joyous and even-tempered, and to increase beauty.
Physical Uses: Turquoise is a valuable grounding stone, and can help to prevent one from losing touch with the conscious mind during deep meditations. It helps to facilitate a "no-mind" state of awareness, and provides the unconscious mind with a "knowing" of the protective mechanism that has been initiated. Turquoise has been said to change color to warn of impending danger and/or to indicate infidelity in thought or action. It can be used also to protect against environmental pollutants. It can be used for attunement between those of the physical plane, as well as between its user and the spirit world. It is a stone of Earth-grounding, so that one can remain grounded during spiritual work. It acts to further peace of mind. It is said to promote spontaneity in issues of romance and to stimulate the initiation of romantic love. Turquoise is a "master healer." It emanates a purifying energy that tends to dissipate negativity, and is an excellent anti-negativity stone (times where the negativity is not within the self). It can be used for emotional, mental, and physical problems. In ancient times, it was used to heal eye problems, especially cataracts. It has been used to strengthen work animals and acts to strengthen the entire anatomy in people, too. It can be helpful in the amelioration of all diseases and disorders. It can help to stimulate the regeneration of tissue and can aid in the absorption of nutrients. It can also help to increase circulatory flow to the muscle tissue. It has been used in the treatment for headaches and in the repair of physical damage that has impacted the body and also to assist one in maintaining stability during ambulatory motions. An elixir has been used to ameliorate skin disorders that were due to stress. Turquoise may be held for attunement, taken as an elixir, worn, carried, or placed in one's environment.
History: Turquoise is a sacred stone to many American Indian tribes. It has been used by Native American shaman to initiate rain. The methods of choice included throwing the Turquoise into a river or holding it under running water. The Navajo used ground Turquoise and Coral in creating sand paintings to bring rain to the parched land. They also kept Turquoise carvings of horses and sheep as guardians against negative magic. Other native inhabitants of the southwestern United States and Mexico placed Turquoise in tombs to guard the dead. The Pueblos laid Turquoise under the floor in offering to the deities, when a house, or kiva, was built. In the Apache tradition, Turquoise was a required tool in the shaman's medicine bag. Turquoise was attached to bows by other early Americans to ensure accurate shots. It was also a common stone in ancient Egypt. In the thirteenth century, Turquoise was said to possess the power of protecting the wearer from injury by falling (particularly from horseback). Tibetan shamans held it in high esteem as holding both a spiritual and protective property. It has been used in shamanic ceremonies and in the sacred valley of Shambhala.