Metaphysical Properties & Gem Stories

There are many interpretations of birthstones relating to many cultures and beliefs.  Some of the earliest mentions of the use of stones for identification and perceived powers date back to the old testament.

Exodus 28:15-21

And thou shalt make the rational of judgment with embroidered work of divers colours, according to the workmanship of the ephod, of gold, violet, and purple, and scarlet twice dyed, and fine twisted linen. It shall be four square and doubled: it shall be the measure of a span both in length and in breadth. And thou shalt set in it four rows of stones. In the first row shall be a sardius stone, and a topaz, and an emerald: In the second a carbuncle, a sapphire, and a jasper: In the third a ligurius, an agate, and an amethyst: In the fourth a chrysolite, an onyx, and a beryl. They shall be set in gold by their rows. And they shall have the names of the children of Israel: with twelve names shall they be engraved, each stone with the name of one according to the twelve tribes.

Much has been suggested about the healing powers of gemstones.

Metaphysical

Key words         Protection, Purification, Divine Connection, Release of Addiction

Element             Wind

Chakras             6th Third Eye, 7th Crown, Etheric

Zodiac                Pisces

Birthstone          February

Amethyst is said to be a natural relaxant, it alleviates stress, dispels anger and is known to heighten intuition and psychic abilities. This stone can be used to strengthen your Crown Chakra, the last of the seven chakras, and is said to be ones connection or "bridge" with higher self and the divine. 

Aquamarine

https://www.gia.edu/birthstones/march-birthstones

Aquamarine is Latin for sea water. A member of the beryl family along with emerald, morganite, golden beryl, goshenite, heliodor, the yellow/green variation is chrysolite aquamarine. Pure beryl is colourless, impurities cause colour changes. Aquamarine is pigmented by iron. Eyeglasses in the 13^th century were constructed of beryl and rock crystal/quartz. Beryl is one of the gems collected for Aaron’s Breastplate. 

Beryl is found on every continent in coarse-grain granite pegmatites, mica schists and limestone. Frequently located tin and tungsten ore deposits. Aquamarine is brittle and sensitive to pressure, Moh’s hardness 7.5-8. Natural crystals are hexagonal and long prisms, large crystals are frequently found. The preferred cut is square or long oval shapes with scissor cuts. Can be mistaken for topaz, kyanite, tourmaline, zircon, and glass. ‘Synthetic aquamarine’ is aqua coloured spinel. For cleaning, warm soapy water is always a safe method for these stones. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are usually safe unless the stone is fractured or has liquid inclusions.

Metaphysical

Key words          Cooling, soothing, enhancement of clear communication

Element              Water

Chakras              5^th Throat, 4^th Heart

Zodiac                 Scorpio

Birthstone          March

Sailors talisman to bring good luck, protection and fearlessness. Used in meditation to bring oneself to a calm alert stage of consciousness. One of the strongest gem energies to clear and activating the throat chakra bringing clarity in communications. Balancing excessive anger, fear and clearing emotional past. 

Diamond

https://www.gia.edu/birthstones/april-birthstones

Diamond is the hardness of 10 on the Moh’s scale and can scratch all other gems. A simple trick to identify a diamond from cubic zirconia (cz), is to lay the stone on its’ table (the flat top) on a lined piece of paper. If the line bends it is a cz.

Metaphysical

Key words          intensity, radiance, sovereignty

Element              Storm

Chakras              4^th Heart, 6^th Third Eye, 7^th, Crown, 8^th-14^th Etheric (above                                 the head)

Birthstone          April

Diamond lore varies from divinity to protection from snakes and of course to enhance love. Placing a diamond near the third eye is said to stimulate one’s inner vision and higher spirits. Diamond’s energy is thought to be stronger than all other gems. And capable of amplifying one’s emotions, so removing diamonds when in a bad temper is suggested. Uncut diamonds are thought to have enhanced energy stimulating and opening all the chakras, especially the crown and above. Enhancing inner vision and stimulating imagination. 

Emerald

https://www.gia.edu/birthstones/may-birthstones

Emerald is derived from the Greek smaragdos, green stone. One of the gems on Aaron’s’ Breastplate. Until the Colombian discovery in 1526, emerald was known as green sapphire. Spanish conquistadors stole the mines from the Incas. Colombian emeralds are superior to the ancient mines of Egypt. And is still the major source of emeralds today. Brazilian emeralds are a yellow-greenish but are often free of inclusions. Rhodesian, Tanzania, Zambia, and Pakistan emeralds became part of the gems used to finance wars.

Emeralds most often have eye visible inclusions. Many emeralds are treated with various substances to improve the colour and clarity. The common practise of oiling emeralds is used and is being replaced with polymer plastics. The first synthesis was completed in 1848. Synthetic emerald emits a short ultra-violet wave more than natural emeralds. Pleochroism: Natural vs Synthetic; natural Distinct, green, blue green to yellow green; Synthetic: yellow green, blue green.

Mistaken for demantoid, grossular and uvarovite garnet, diopside, dioptase, hiddenite, peridot, and green tourmaline.

Metaphysical

Key words          Love, compassion, healing & abundance

Element              Water

Chakras              4^th Heart

Zodiac                 Cancer

Birthstone          May

Romans wore emeralds as a symbol for fertility and the goddess Venus. Stone of Resurrection is Christian lore. Other lore maintains that emeralds cure a variety of diseases, assuages, fears, enhances persuasiveness and improves memory. Emerald is the gem which best represents an activated heart chakra. Traditionally linked to cure heartbreak loving others and oneself. It is thought to stimulate wealth and abundance by removing thoughts of inferiority. Helping to view all thing with acceptance and compassion.

Pearls have long been associated with purity, humility and innocence. So it may be said that the June birthstone meaning is "sweet simplicity." As such, pearls were traditionally given as a wedding gift.

The pearl birthstone was also thought to have beneficial properties. In the ancient Sanskrit text the Atharvaveda, pearls were said to bestow long life and prosperity. In Asia, pearls were believed to help alleviate indigestion and hemorrhages. Some 19^th century Arab physicians maintained that pearl powder improved eyesight, quieted nervous tremors and eased depression.

Pearl Care:

Pearls are 2.5 to 3.0 on the Mohs Scale of hardness, so they are a comparatively soft gem and require special care. Store them separately from other gemstones and metal jewelry to prevent scratching. Never store your pearl birthstones in a plastic bag — plastic can emit a chemical that will damage their surface. Always apply perfume, hair products and cosmetics before putting on your pearl jewelry. The best way to clean your June birthstone: Use a soft, damp cloth, ideally after each time the pearls are worn.

Moonstone

Moonstone is the best-known gem of the feldspar group of minerals. It is renowned for its adularescence, the light that appears to billow across a gemstone, giving it a special glow. The finest moonstones show a blue sheen against a colorless background. 

With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs Scale of harness, peridot is softer than many gems and cannot take hard wear, so it is not recommended for daily use in a ring. This August birthstone can also be damaged by some acids and even by long-term exposure to acidic perspiration. Cleaning peridot is a delicate process. Never use a steam or ultrasonic cleaner, as your peridot birthstone is vulnerable to thermal shock. It is safest to use a s0ft-bristle brush with a mild dish soap in warm water. Peridot should be stored with care to avoid scratching by gems with greater hardness.
 

Metaphysical

Key words        Increase, Prosperity, Warmth, Well-being

Element            Earth  

Chakras            3rd Solar Plexus, 4th Heart  

Zodiac               Libra 

Birthstone          August

The September birthstone has traditionally symbolized sincerity, truth, faithfulness and nobility. For countless centuries, sapphire has adorned royalty and the robes of the clergy. 

Warm, soapy water is always a safe choice for cleaning the September birthstone. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are usually safe for untreated, heat-treated and lattice diffusion–treated stones. Fracture-filled or dyed material should only be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Metaphysical

Key words        Awareness, Discipline

Element           Wind, Earth  

Chakras           6th Third Eye, 5th Throat 

Zodiac               Taurus 

Birthstone          September

The elite of ancient Greece and Rome believed that blue sapphires protected their owners from harm and envy. Clerics of the Middle Ages wore sapphires because they symbolized Heaven. Ancient Persians believed the earth actually rested on a giant sapphire, which made the sky blue.

The name of this, the traditional October birthstone, is believed to have originated in India (the source of the first opals brought to the Western world), where in Sanskrit it was called upala, a “precious stone." .” In ancient Rome, this became opalus. Most opals are valued for their shifting colors in rainbow hues – a phenomenon known as “play-of-color.”

The variety of topaz hues includes colorless, light blue, yellow, orange, pink, violet, brown and, very rarely, red. The vast majority of blue topaz seen today is the permanent result of treating colorless topaz with irradiation and heating. The rainbow effect seen in “Mystic Topaz” is created by coating colorless topaz with a thin artificial film. Some believe the word “topaz” comes from the Sanskrit word tapas, which means “fire.” Others trace it back to the Greek topazos.

This November birthstone is the transparent yellow to brownish orange variety of quartz, which has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. Citrine has been a popular gemstone since ancient times and has shared a history of mistaken identities with the other November birthstone, topaz. As a result, people thought citrine had the same powers as topaz. They believed the citrine birthstone could soothe tempers and calm the wearer.

At 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness with good toughness, your citrine birthstone is usually durable enough for normal wear and care. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water. While it is usually okay to clean your November birthstone in an ultrasonic machine, steam cleaning is risky since high heat could cause the stone to crack.
 

Metaphysical

Key words        Manifestation, Personal Will, Mental Clarity, Creativity

Element            Fire 

Chakras            1st Root, 2nd Creative, 3rd Solar Plexus 

Zodiac               Scorpio 

Birthstone          November

https://www.gia.edu/birthstones/december-birthstones

 Turquoise is generally stable to light, but high heat can cause discoloration and breakage. Your turquoise birthstone can be damaged by acids, and it can be discolored by certain chemicals, cosmetics and even skin oils or perspiration. It’s safe to clean turquoise jewelry with warm, soapy water, but this December birthstone should never be cleaned with steam or ultrasonic cleaners. Heat or solvents can damage the treated surfaces on some turquoise.

Metaphysical

Key words         Wholeness, Communication, and Spiritual Expansion

Element             Storm 

Chakras              5th Throat

Zodiac                Capricorn

Birthstone          December

Tanzanite may be a relative newcomer to the world of colored stones, but it was one of the most exciting gem discoveries of the 20^th century. Blue stones emerging from Tanzania were identified as the mineral zoisite in 1962. Not until 1967, though, did prospectors locate the primary source for this December birthstone: the Merelani Hills. It was eventually named tanzanite in honor of its country of origin. The tanzanite birthstone is often described as “velvety,” mostly because of its deep and saturated color, which ranges from a pure rich blue to violet, with the blue considered most valuable.

This December birthstone (6 to 7 on the Mohs scale of harness) is resistant to the effects of normal heat, light and common chemicals. Still, the December birthstone may crack if exposed to very high temperatures or sudden temperature changes, and it abrades easily. It can be attacked by hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids. Your tanzanite birthstone is best set in earrings or pendants.  While not recommended for daily wear in a ring, with a protective mounting and some care this December birthstone can be an attractive special-occasion jewel. Warm, soapy water is the best way to clean this December birthstone. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are never recommended for tanzanite.

Metaphysical

Key words         Linkage of the Mind and Heart, Enhanced Spiritual Perception,                             Compassionate Self-expression, Adherence to Truth

Element             Wind 

Chakras              4th Heart, 5th Throat, 6th Third Eye, 7th Crown, 8th SoulStar

Zodiac                Sagittarius

Birthstone          December

The origins of the word “zircon” have elicited colorful debate. Some scholars believe it comes from the Arabic word zarkun, meaning “cinnabar” or “vermilion.” Others think the source is the Persian word zargun, or “gold colored.” Considering the broad color palette for this December birthstone – red, orange, yellow, brown, green and blue – either derivation seems possible. Colorless zircon is known for its brilliance and flashes of multicolored light, called fire, which have resulted in centuries of confusion with diamond.

Clean your zircon using a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for this December birthstone.

Metaphysical

Key words        Stimulation of all Chakras, Increased Life Force, Grounding                                   Ideals in the Physical World

Element            Storm  

Chakras             All 

Zodiac                Taurus

Birthstone          December

 During the Middle Ages, this December birthstone was thought to lull one into a deep sleep and scare off evil spirits. In the Hindu religion, zircon alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems of the navaratna. When worn together, the nine gems protect the wearer and bring wealth, wisdom and good health.

Ametrine is a blend of amethyst and citrines energies, amethyst works with the Crown Chakra to protect ones auric field and purify personal energies. Citrine is a stone of mental clarity, creativity, and will power. Ametrine holds the combined properties of both of these stones, encouraging a balance between the mind and spirit leading to a burst of creative, and insightful energy.

Key words          Mental and spiritual clarity, decisiveness

Element              Wind, Fire

Chakras              Solar plexus 3rd, Crown 7th

Andalusite

This stone emits slow yet extremely powerful vibrations, when held or worn it is said to give one a sense of comfort. Andalusite, also known as Chiastolite, offers psychic protection, grounding, and a sense of peace and well being. It can be used to strengthen any Chakra as well as ones auric field. The friendliness of this stone makes it an excellent stone for those overcoming loneliness, depression, anxiety, and phobias. 

Key words          Cleansing, comforting, protective, retrieving ancient information

Element              Storm

Chakras              Root 1st, Third eye 6th

Aventurine

Aventurine encourages abundance, positivity, and adventure. This stone is thought to be a positive stone that works to dissolve negative emotions, encourages leadership, inspires prosperity, strengthens compassion and perseverance. It is used to open ones mind and the encourages alternative perspectives.

Different colours of Aventurine are thought to have unique properties:

Blue: promotes mental healing

 Key words          Psychic attunement, self discipline, inner strength

 Element             Wind, Water

 Chakras             Third Eye 6th

Green: eases mental and emotional trauma, dissolving negative thought and bringing calm

Key words          Vitality, growth, confidence

Element             Water, earth

Chakras             Heart 4th

          Red: boosts creativity, vitality and sensuality

Key words          Discernment, Determination, strength, creativity

Element             Earth, Fire

Chakras             1st Root, 2nd Sacral, 6th Third Eye

Agate is derived from the Sicilian river Achates where agates were probably found. Blue Lace Agate is a blue periwinkle variety of banded Chalcedony from the Quartz family, with a Moh’s hardness of 7. Agates have been found with Neolithic artifacts. Agates where the foundation of the stone cutting industry in Idar-Oberstein, Germany since 16^th century. Some of the best banded Blue Lace Agate gems come from South Africa

Metaphysical

Key Words         Communication, clarity, confidence

Element              Water

Chakras              5^th Throat

Birthstone         May

Zodiac                 Gemini

Metaphysically agates are generally a lower intensity energy with slower frequency vibrations. Agates are regarded as stabilizing and strengthening. Blue Lace Agate opens and clears the throat chakra, benefitting articulate speech and helps to build confidence. Instills clarity of thought, focusing intent of ideas and goals.  Assisting to communicate one’s thoughts, beliefs and truth. For persons who speak before thinking and are unable to stop talking, Blue Lace Agate balances the throat chakra. A gem for enhancing loyalty and trustworthiness, assisting in understanding the sanctity of secrets. An emotionally calming and centering gem.

Moss Agate 

Moss agate, also known as mocha stone, is a gemstone known for its moss like inclusions. The alternative name comes from the Arabian city of Mocha in Yemen, which was an ancient source for the gemstone. There is some debate regarding the interchangeability of these names. Some argue mocha stone should only be used when referring to moss agate with brown or red coloring.

Moss agate has long been used for ornamental purposes. Some ancient cultures viewed moss agate as a healing stone. During the late 18th century, moss agate was known as a stone of good fortune in Britain. Fern and moss like inclusions led moss agate to be viewed as a stone of agriculture amongst gardeners and farmers. It's said European farmers once used to hang moss agate from trees and around the horns of oxen when plowing to encourage bountiful harvests.

Metaphysical

Moss agate's plant-like appearance has highly influenced its perceived metaphysical properties. Moss agate is said to promote tranquility and emotional balance. Moss agate is beneficial for those who struggle with strong aggression or overbearing emotions, encouraging balance between male and female energies. The relaxing vibrations of this stone bring us closer to nature.

Moss agate/mocha stone is also associated with new friendships. It's recommended to carry this stone when meeting new people to draw them in and encourage new relationships. This reinforces the association between moss agate and the zodiac sign Aquarius, allegedly one of the more social signs of the zodiac. Moss agate also correlates with the sign of Virgo, bringing these typically analytical minds a sense of calmness.

Key words          Stability, persistence, grounding

Element             Earth

Chakras             Root 1st, Heart 4th

 

Amazonite

Amazonite is a stone of harmony, encouraging one to speak their truth without being overcome with emotion. This stone works with the Heart chakra to encourage compassion, and allow one to be open to different perspectives. Amazonite amplifies our intentions, working with the Throat chakra to make sure our intentions are spoked out loud.

Key words          Truth, communication, harmony

Element              Water

Chakras             Heart 4th, Throat 5th

Amber

https://www.gia.edu/amber

The Greeks called amber elektron, or “made by the sun.” Homer praised its bright glow. The Egyptians buried it in tombs for the afterlife. Today’s scientists value amber too: it provides a three-dimensional window into prehistoric ecosystems through the myriad animal and plant inclusions it contains.

Metaphysical

Key Words         Light, Warmth, Solar Energies, Clarification, Healing

Element              Earth

Chakras              3rd Solar Plexus         

Zodiac                Taurus

Calcite

Calcite is a stone that emits gentle energies, while there is a variety of different calcites to choose from with their own unique properties, all forms are useful in removing blockages and moving past negative cycles. 

Clear Calcite:

Clear calcite shares properties similar to crystal quartz, it can be used to amplify intention, and allows one to see the root inner problems, encouraging forgiveness and a gravitation towards the greater good.

Key words          Insight, clarity, manifestation, forgiveness

Element             Fire, Wind

Chakras             All

Blue Calcite:

This stone is known for its soothing energies, and is especially helpful to those who become over stimulated with energy, specifically from external sources. It is a gentle protector of the auric field and filters through negative energy. Blue calcite also works to remove blockages from the Third eye and Throat Chakras, and allows ones creativity to flow more freely.

Key words          Psychic ability, astral travel, soothing emotional body

Element             Fire, Air

Chakras             Throat 5th, Third eye 6th

Green Calcite:

This stone is known to be energetically refreshing and is said to dissolve negative waves of emotion. Green calcite works with the Heart Chakra to clear stress and other negative blockages, and is said to make one more attuned to nature.

Keywords          Relaxation, emotional balance, stress release, heart connection

Element             Fire, water

Chakras             Heart 4th

Pink Calcite (opaque):

Pink calcite is said to enhance and balance the energies of the heart and make the wearer more perceptive to everything it comes in contact with. It is a stone of empathy and can help one improve their empathetic connections with others. It dispels arguments and stubbornness in both the wearer and others and allows one to see different points of view.

Key words          Well-being, wholeness, health, empathy, heart connection

Element              Fire

Chakras              Heart 4th

Pink Calcite (transparent):

This is a stone of compassion, and it increases the energy levels of those who work with it. Pink calcite works to make one more compassionate towards themselves (both past and present) and then towards others. It encourages acceptance and unconditional love, stimulating the Heart Chakra and giving one a sense of harmony.

Key words          Emotional healing, compassion, joy

Element             Fire, water

Chakras             Heart 4th

Red Calcite:

This stone acts as a bridge between the base (Root) Chakra and Crown Chakra, strengthening the connection between physical and spiritual. It is also known for increasing life force energy, in a subtle manner, allowing the wearer to appreciate the wonders of life and encouraging a wider sense of awareness.

Key words         Vitality, sensory awareness, clarity

Element             Fire, earth

Chakras             Root 1st, Crown 7th

Orange Calcite:

Orange calcite is said to encourage a spike in energy, promoting creativity, and sexuality. It is helpful to those looking for a new solution to an old problem or project, and encourages one to see their situation in a new light. This stone works with the Sacral and Solar plexus Chakras to activate a burst of creative and warming energy, encouraging the wearer to be more confident and direct.

Key words          Creativity, sexuality, playfulness, confidence, innovation

Element              Fire

Chakras              Sacral 2nd, Solar plexus 3rd

Carnelian

A stone that has become increasingly popular in recent times for its perceived ability to improve self image, and energy levels, is also a very powerful tool for manifestation. Carnelian works with the first, second, and third chakras, promoting balance, physical energy, and creativity. This stone allows one to embrace their assertive side, and is beneficial for those who struggle with indecision and doubt, encouraging one to take action rather than waiting for something to happen.

Key words          Courage, vitality, sexuality, confidence, action

Element             Fire

Chakras             Root 1st, Sacral 2nd, Solar plexus 3rd

Blue Chalcedony

Blue chalcedony is known to restore balance and calm in those feeling overwhelming stress. This stone works with the Throat and Third eye chakras and its energy stimulates the mind on many levels. It helps one talk about things that are typically below ones conscious making it a helpful tool for those in therapy.

Key words          Calm, balance, centered, inner knowledge, communication 

Element              Water

Chakras             Throat 5th, Third Eye 6th

Charoite

It is believed that Charoites energy aids in releasing fear and negativity, as well as overcoming reluctant changes. It is known for its protective properties and is a beneficial tool when facing extreme change. Charoite activates the Crown and Heart Chakras, connecting us with the universe and opening ones heart to change and balance.

Labradorite

Labradorite is known as a highly spiritual stone, especially beneficial to people who are feeling burnt out. It encourages energy regain while helping the body and spirit in healing itself. Metaphysically, labradorite is considered one of the most powerful stones of protection. It is a strong auric protector and shields one from negative energy from external and internal sources. Labradorite is known for its "labradorescence" or flashy colour changes, reinforcing this gemstones reputation as a stone of transformation, improving self image and will power. The gemstone labradorite is said to stimulate the throat chakra. Though not associated with any zodiac sign, supposedly the sign of Cancer is especially drawn to labradorite.

Key words          Magic, Protection

Element              Wind

Chakras              All

Larimar works with the Throat Chakra to promote clear communication, emotional strength and stability, allowing one to speak from the heart. This stone encourages relaxation and is said to soothe the emotional body, aiding the wearer in releasing unwanted attachments and stress.

Key words         Calming, cooling, emotional soothing, communication, feminine                             energy

Element             Water, fire

Chakras             Throat 5th

Palm Fossil

A fossilized forest with palm tree-like plants was found by scientists in an excavation site, in Xinhang, Anhui, China. Dating back 400 million years and covering 2,700,000 square feet, larger than Grand Central Station. Previously only two fossil forest had been discovered in the U.S. and Norway. Lycopsid plants resembling todays palm trees, most of them reaching 10 feet high, the tallest being 25 feet.

Palm plants are found along coastal environments with warm temperatures remaining above the freezing mark, much like a mangrove forest. Coryphoid palms have been found in Olgiocene deposits of Ningming County, Guangxi, China, three species Chuniophoenix slenderifolia sp. nov., Livistona roundifolia sp. nov., and Trachycarpus formosa sp. nov. In 1997 a new species of fossilized palm from the Paleocene era, 65 million years ago, was found further north than previous thought possible, in Drumheller, south of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Pe-king University is studying the Xinhang and other Late Devonian forests. Research shows that early forests with significant biomass can store more carbon through photosynthesis and have more impact on CO2 decline than previously demonstrated

Courtesy of Earth Sciences Museum, University of Waterloo, Canada

https://uwaterloo.ca/earth-sciences-museum/fossilized-palm-wood

Pyrite

Pyrite activates the Solar plexus Chakra, increasing life energy and encouraging one to accomplish challenging tasks. It improves will power, aiding one in breaking bad habits and increasing the flow of positive energy. This stone promotes creativity and feeds into ambition.

Key words          Masculine energy, manifestation, action, creativity, confidence

Element              Earth

Chakras              Solar plexus 3rd

 

Black Onyx

Onyx is a variety of Chalcedony. Onyx is similar to agate but its bands are straight and parallel rather than curved. Most black onyx is grey chalcedony dyed to remove the grey bands. The dyeing process is stable and has been used for centuries. Onyx can be traced back to biblical times being one of the stones on Aaron’s breastplate. Black gems where the height of popularity during Queen Victoria’s mourning period. Onyx has been carved for cameos for centuries.

Metaphysical

Key words          focus, inner strength

Element              Earth

Chakra:              1^st Root, 3^rd Solar Plexus, 6^th Third Eye

Zodiac                 Leo

Birthstone          July

Onyx is a stone of inner strength. Black Onyx is used to stimulate the root chakra with the feet. It is said to help gradually build up vitality. And is used to help one control focus. Romans carried amulets carved with Mars, the god of War. Believed to bestow courage in battle. Persians believed it helped epilepsy. English midwives used it the ease childbirth.

Hematite

Hematite is known by the trade name of Black Alaskan Diamond. Hematite has been found on Mars, ‘Mars Blueberries’. Magnetic Hematite is a synthetic material known as Hematine.

Hematite is derived from Greek ‘blood’. Coloured black to silver-grey, some varieties have reddish brown streaks. In the German gem cutting houses referred to hematite as Blood Stone, as the water ran red during the cutting process. An iron oxide, Hematite is found in the tailings of iron mines. Red Chalk writings by early humans were created with ochre. Red ochre clay with varying amounts 20-70% of unhydrated hematite, hydrated hematite creates yellow ochre.

Rich deposits of hematite have been mined since the Etruscan era 6^th century BCE on the island of Elba. The popularity of black gems and hematite jewellery rose during the Victorian era and was used widely in mourning jewellery. Hematite is used in the art form intaglio engraved gems and is also carved. The traditional red house paint in Sweden is Falu Red is created from hematite. Ground crystals are used to create rouge for polishing metals and gemstones.

Metaphysical Properties

Key words          grounding, make the spiritual physical,

Element              Earth

Chakras               Root (1^st)

Hematite is a powerful stone used to cleanse negative energy. It is thought to be the most effective stone for grounding oneself. Hematite’s grounding properties help in balancing the meridian system to the root chakra.

Kyanite: Blue

Unlike most other crystals, kyanites formation is rough and sporadic. It forms in elongated bands, fibrous structures, and masses. The formation process results in swirls of blue and a distinct bladed appearance.

Lapis Lazuli

A stone of royalty and spirituality, it was unsurpassed in ancient times. Known as sapphirus until the Middle Ages. Lapis is Latin for ‘blue stone’. Lapis Lazuli was the stone of the Pharaohs and Emperors world over and is most likely the sapphire mentioned in the Bible. Catherine the Great decorated a room, walls, fireplace, doors and mirror frames. Chinese cherished it for carving.

Lapis Lazuli (Lazurite) is made up of several different minerals lazurite, sodalite, hauyne, calcite and pyrite.  Predominately royal blue with minor patches of white and pyrite inclusions. Most prized intense blue Lapis Lazuli comes from the far northeastern remote province Badakhshan, Afghanistan. Archeological evidence dates these mines to 8000 BC.  Russian Lapis has greater amounts of pyrite. Whereas Chilean Lapis is rich in calcite giving it a distinctly dull and dusty appearance. Recently finds of Mexican Lapis are blends of teal and blue.

Was worn to protect from evil. Thought to aid in the path to self-knowledge and reflection. Wind element working predominantly on the third eye to aid in a deep inner journey.

Metaphysical

Key Words         Inner vision, truthful communications, royal virtues

Element              Wind

Chakras              5^th Throat, 6^th Third Eye

Planet                 Juniper

Birthstone          December

 

Malachite

Malachite is a protective stone against negative energies, filling ones auric field with positive vibrations acting as a shield against negative forces. It works with the Heart Chakra to maintain emotional stability allows one to avoid the emotional baggage of others. The Solar Plexus Chakra is also activated by this stone, enhancing will power and encouraging one to resist temptation.

Key words          Enlightened leadership, creativity, confidence, protection, heart                             healing

Element             Fire

Chakras             Solar plexus 3rd, heart 4th

 

Ocean Jasper

This stone promotes joy and lifts ones mood through positive vibrations, making it difficult to see things with a negative outlook. Ocean jasper activates the Solar plexus, Heart, and Throat chakras, encouraging one to feel, speak, and act in a more positive manner. It encourages one to express themselves more lovingly through actions and words, and breaks the habit of taking the positive aspects of ones life for granted. This stone encourages one to live in the moment, relieving worries about the future and dissolving regrets of the past.

Key words          Enjoyment of life, releasing negativity & stress, healing

Element              Earth

Chakras              Solar plexus 3rd, Heart 4th, Throat 5th

Quartz

Quartz is a powerful stone known for its healing abilities. It is said to be the most powerful healing stone of the mineral kingdom, working on any condition. It is also known as the "Universal Crystal" because of its many uses and is beneficial for manifesting, healing, meditation, and protection. Quartz is a powerful tool in restoring balance and is excellent for stabilizing one's environment. It is also thought to improve mental and physical energy, stamina and physical strength. Quartz encourages spiritual growth and wisdom. 

Key words          Programmability, amplification of intention, clearing, cleansing,                             healing

Element             Storm

Chakras             All

Rose Quartz

Rose Quartz is a variety of Quartz that ranges in color from pale pink to a rose red hue. Its color comes from trace amounts of titanium, iron, and manganese. Some Rose Quartz specimens contain microscopic rutile needles, which produces an asterism in transmitted light.

Rose Quartz loving and positive vibrations connect with the soul and heart, working to dissolve past wounds and hurts. It is known to spread unconditional love throughout the wearer, encouraging positive change quickly. Rose Quartz healing properties purify and open the heart chakra on all levels to promote love, self-healing, friendship, and feelings of peace. Its calming and reassuring properties help comfort us in times of grief. Rose Quartz is said to dispel negativity, grief, and sadness.

Key words          love, gentleness, emotional healing, release of stress, uniting                               with the divine

Element              Water

Chakras              4^th Heart

Sodalite

Sodalite connects with blue crystal energy that activates the Throat Chakra, the voice of the body. Essentially the Throat Chakra is a pressure valve that allows the energy from the other chakras to be expressed. If it is blocked, imbalanced, it can affect the health of the other chakras. When the Throat Chakra is in balance and open, it encourages the expression of what we think and feel. Allowing one to communicate ideas, beliefs, emotions, and encouraging one to release their personal truth into the world. Blue crystal energy unblocks and balances the Throat Chakra. Darker shades of blue encourage the power of truth, while lighter shades carry the power of flexibility, relaxation, and balance.

Key words        Access to subconscious, intuitive abilities, enhanced insight and                           mental performance 

Element           Wind

Chakras            5th Throat, 6th Third Eye

Sunstone

This is a stone of personal power, and self expression. It promotes mental clarity, openness, warmth, and strength, making it a powerful stone for those in leadership positions. Sunstone is known to stimulate ones creative and sexual energies, and can improve physical stamina.

Key words          Leadership, benevolence, strength, abundance of blessings

Element              Fire

Chakras             Sacral 2nd, Solar plexus 3rd

Golden Tiger Eye

Tiger’s eye holds energies of the earth and sun. This has the energetic effect of firing up your passion while simultaneously grounding you to earth, similar to the energies of the Sacral Chakra. As the Sacral Chakra is the centre of your emotions, tiger’s eye can help balance mood swings and encourages stability. The Sacral Chakra is also the centre for creativity. With an unblocked Sacral Chakra, tiger’s eye empowers one to take risks and delve into their creative side.

Metaphysical

Key words         Balance between extremes, discernment, vitality, strength,                                    fairness

Element             Fire, Earth

Chakras             1st Root, 2nd Sacral, 3rd Solar Plexus

Blue Tiger Eye

Tiger’s eye is a high vibrational stone that grounds the energy of the sun into the earth. It is a helpful tool to use during times of stress, when feeling insecure, or not being true to yourself. Its grounding energies soothe anxiety. This stone is believed to make one more in touch with their surroundings. Grounding energies allow one to feel empowered and stand up for oneself, it is also useful in making tough decisions.

Stability and balance are fundamental for clear decision making. Tiger’s eye, working through the Root Chakra, is a powerful stone of balance. Tiger’s eye also brings harmony to a family environment. It does this by balancing yin-yang energies, which makes it easier to understand different perspectives.

Unakite Jasper

Unakite is a stone of the Heart Chakra. It filters our interactions in the external world and manages what energies we embrace and release. If the Heart Chakra is not balanced we may feel either controlling or controlled in a relationship, and become overcritical of the insignificant quirks of others. One might find themselves having inappropriately strong emotional responses to everyday external stimuli. Green and pink crystal energies are beneficial for dissipating blockages and balancing the Heart Chakra, helping us to better understand our own needs and emotions. 

Key words         Healing, balance, release of bad habits, higher attunement,                                  patient persistence

Element             Earth

Chakras             All, especially 4th Heart