July 9th, 2015

I have been unusually productive today! Got some reading done, reorganized a few things, vacuumed, worked another spell... I also made the effort to stay on top of my crystal research. We visited the zoo on Sunday, and I picked up a new treasure from the gift shop. Here's what I found on it.

Turritella Agate

Physical Characteristics: Fossiliferous brown Agate, which contains white or tan snail shells. The shells appear conic with multiple chambers, while the Agate matrix may appear translucent. 

In Nature: Circa 50 million years ago, rains falling on the young Rocky Mountains carried sand, silt, and mud into the nearby lakes. As the layers piled up, Elimia tenera - the snail originally misidentified as belonging to the Turritella genus - died and sank to the bottom, where they were preserved within the sediment deposits. Over time, groundwater precipitated silica into the mass, which slowly fossilized the material into Agate (Chalcedony). Often, the shells' surrounding matrix is only partly silicified, and may remain as Sandstone or Shale.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6 - 7 (medium - medium-high)

Can be Found: The Green River Formation, in Wyoming, USA

Healing Properties*: A Root chakra stone, Turritella can assist with most medical problems of the diaphragm, lower back, and feet, including gastro-intestinal disorders, gallstones, swelling, physical balance, and so on. Worn in the center of the chest, this Agate promotes a healthy heart and veins. For a mild fever, place a cold Agate against the forehead. 

Magickal Properties: Like many fossils, Turritella Agate has a strong connection to the past, and can be used in work pertaining to one's ancestry, homeland, and heritage. They are record keeper crystals, and offer access to the Akashic Records, past life recall, and etcetera. The stone stimulates inner composure and maturity. It is also handy for travelers, warding off danger, maintaining a connection with home, and alleviating fear. They could be similarly employed by nervous drivers, as they ward off traffic accidents. 

Additionally, the Agate can be used to heighten concentration or stimulate analytical thought. Turritella is beneficial for self-analysis, as well as for dealing with deep-seated trauma and any accompanying phobias or physical symptoms of suffering. It is likewise a balancer of energy(ies); as such, it could help those who find themselves struggling with hyperactivity or manic emotional swings. It may also help to ease symptoms of dysphoria in transgender individuals, or others outside the gender binary.

Chakra Association: First (Root) chakra

Element: Earth

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Mercury

*Magickal healing should never take the place of seeing a doctor and following any recommended prescriptions, actions, or other advice. Magick works best in tandem with physical efforts, anyway, so don't skimp on those check-ups!

Crystal Shapes

Crystals come in all shapes and sizes, Clear Quartz in particular. In fact, there are so many varieties available that sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. Moreover, some crystals may exhibit multiple attributes. Hopefully, this post will clarify some of that.

• The most basic form of crystal is the classic single termination. This is a crystal with one point. It can be used to direct energy, either toward an object or away from it. For example, one might point a crystal at an object to empower it, or do a protection ritual where one sits in a circle of Smoky Quartz, points facing outward, to direct negativity away from the caster.
• A long point crystal (which may also be double terminated - see below) is simply a long crystal with a point at at least one end. These can be natural or artificially sculpted, but the end result is a crystal wand, used frequently in both ritual and healing. They are quick and efficient, moving energy on the spot.
• A double terminated crystal is exactly what it sounds like - a crystal which is pointed on both ends. This formation is less common in nature and may be artificially shaped. This stone directs energy in two directions at once and is a stone of balance, integrating spirit and matter. They absorb negativity and break old habits, making them helpful for overcoming addiction. Double terminations assist with integrating blocked parts of the body or psyche, and placing one over the third eye enhances telepathy.
• A cluster, or crystal matrix, is a group of multiple points fixed to a single base. These radiate energy outward, and may also absorb negative energies. These are most often programmed and then set in place to do their work, making them useful primarily for affecting the energy of a space. Clusters can also cleanse single crystals, if said crystal is left next to a cluster overnight.
• An abundance crystal is a cluster where one point is significantly longer than the others. These stones are thought to draw abundance and prosperity.
• A geode is a geological phenomenon where a rock, hollowed by erosion, is infiltrated with crystals such that when the rock is broken open, the crystals glitter on the inside of the formation. These can be very small or many feet across. Geodes hold and amplify energy within themselves, allowing for a slow, steady release of power. They have many associations with the Divine Mother, the Cosmic Egg, and creative power. They were called Thunderstones by some Native American tribes, and were believed to be the eggs of Thunderbirds.
• Phantom Quartz occur when, over millions of years, a crystal grows entirely around another crystal, creating the "phantom" image of a crystal within a crystal. They have absorbed millions of years' worth of learning which can be accessed through meditation. Phantoms put the past into perspective, allowing for growth and personal evolution.
• Spheres (your classic crystal ball) are nearly always sculpted by man. They emit energy in all directions, and act as a focus for meditation. If one's intent is to view the future, staring at a crystal sphere (this need not be Clear Quartz - many, many varieties are available) will relax the mind and allow visions to enter the mind.
• Think of a square crystal as acting like a battery. They consolidate energy and provide a grounding influence. Salt is the most common square crystal.
• Pyramidal crystals will typically have a square base and four faces meeting in a single point. These are your manifestation stones, drawing energy up from the base, focusing it, and projecting one's intent from the point. A simple manifestation spell is to set a picture of your desire under a pyramid crystal.
• Egg shapes are less common in crystals than spheres, but they actually tend to be less expensive. These project a very gentle healing energy, and are ideal for finding and repairing energy imbalances in the body. The narrower end can be used as a reflexology or acupuncture tool. They can also be employed as worry stone in times of stress.
• Some stones have no definite structure, and may be referred to as amorphous solids. If you hear "amorphous", think "glass". Natural glasses - Obsidian, Apache Tear, Tektite, etc. - all have amorphous structures. Energy flows quickly through them, making them fast-acting stones. 
• All crystals with many layers, like Lepidolite or Desert Rose, act sympathetically, such that one can see the "many layers" of a situation and act accordingly.
• Tabular crystals are kind of like slices of bread, in that you have two opposite, flat sides which are much wider than the other two sides. Many of them have grooves usually running perpendicular to the length of the stone. These can be rubbed to activate stores of information. The stone itself offers little resistance to energy and directs it easily. They are tools of communication, preventing confusion and misunderstanding. 
• Elestial stones have many terminations folding over another multilayered crystal. Their energy is very gentle, soothing emotions and removing fear. These are stones of past life regression and karma work.
• Occlusions can occur within any sort of crystal, and are essentially where one stone has another, separate mineral inside it. Tourmalated Quartz, for example, is Clear Quartz with Tourmaline occlusions. These stones amplify the energy of the inner crystal and direct it. 
• True generator crystals have six sides all meeting equally in a single point. Large or small, these stones are ideal for producing energy and provide a powerful kick start to any magickal endeavor. In other formations, such as the one I purchased, multiple smaller crystals may be combined to create a formation favorable to energy genesis.
• A generator cluster is one in which many individual, long points are all fixed at the same base. Each point can be programmed for a different purpose, unlike in traditional clusters.
• A so-called "manifestation crystal" is one where several larger crystals totally enclose a smaller crystal. They are very powerful for getting what one wants, but to make a bad pun, one's intentions must be crystal clear, without any ambivalence. Generally, they work best when one's desires are not selfish. These stones can also stimulate creativity, promote visualization, and improve the effectiveness of group work.
• Cathedral Quartz are usually very large specimens with one bigger point and at least one other medium-sized termination, joined at the base. They plug directly into the universal unconscious and Akashic Records, making them the metaphorical Google of information-retrieving stones. At least one source suggests that these stones seem initially to posses no vibration whatsoever, but which after careful examination proves to have "an eerie inner glow". Having never seen one, I can neither confirm nor deny this observation.
• Record Keeper crystals are recognized by the triangle shapes etched on their sides. Some may also have a chevron pattern of etching. They represent the total harmony of body, mind, and spirit, and are portals of spiritual wisdom. Placed on the Third Eye, one can access one's past, personal or collective. Activate them by gently rubbing the pyramid shape.
• An "etched" crystal may appear to be covered in hieroglyphics, cuneiform, or other forms of ancient writing. These stones provide a direct link to the past. Use them to access your past lives as well as the esoteric knowledge of our ancient ancestors. They can be especially helpful with connecting to ancient rituals and initiations.
• Scepter Quartz looks rather like a club, in that the main, thicker crystal has grown out of a shorter, stubbier crystal. They generate and amplify energy, and are excellent healing stones, fixing the cause of a problem rather than just its symptoms. According to legend, these were symbols of power in Atlantis and Lemuria. Use them to solve infertility or to balance male and female energies in the body. 
• A reversed scepter has an additional small crystal projecting from the base of the primary stone. These transmit healing energy, cleanse it, and return it to the healer. They soothe the mind and remove illusions.
• Windows occur in crystals that have two pentagonal faces. The small, triangular face between them is the window. These provide a doorway into the self, and can help one balance the material and the spiritual. They can also help to find missing persons if one projects a strong enough visualization into the window.
• A self-healed crystal has many small points where it was broken from its base and then laid down fresh crystals. As one might suspect, these are healing stones and teachers of the healing arts.
• Quartz specimens with an indentation or aperture in it are called key crystals; the indentation is often three or six sided. Meditating with these crystals unlocks the hidden parts of the self, as well as information you may not otherwise be able to access.
• Tantric Twins (aka Soulmate crystals) are two stones of approximately equal size joined along one side, which also have clearly distinct and separate terminations. They enable the bearer to find someone with whom they truly connect and form a harmonious relationship. This could mean a romantic partnership, but could also be a lifelong friend.
• A twinned stone where one crystal is smaller than the other may be used to strengthen parent-child or employer-employee relationships.

August 8th, 2014

Labradorite

Physical Characteristics: The shining play of colors (technically called "Labradorescence") within this variety of Feldspar is a side effect of molecular changes within large Anorthosite crystals. Like Opalite Moonstone, light refracts as it passes through the stone, breaking into bands of blue, green, and yellow. Predominantly yellow varieties may also be called Spectrolite.

In Nature: Labradorite occurs in mafic igneous rock, and is common in Basalt and Gabbro.

Chemical Composition: (Ca, Na) (Al, Si)4O8; (Ca, Na) must be between 50% and 70% of the total composition

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6 - 6.5 (middle)

Can be Found: Canada, Norway, Finland

Healing Properties*: This crystal may help detoxify the body from the effects of alcohol, tobacco, and more severe substance abuse. Labradorite is best used to heal ailments of the throat and lungs, combating everything from the common cold to bronchitis. It can also treat eye and brain disorders, soothe anxiety, and ease the symptoms of PMS. The stone lowers blood pressure and alleviates rheumatism.

Magickal Properties: Inuit lore claims Labradorite as the frozen fire of the Aurora Borealis, while other peoples connect it to Arianhrod, the Lady of the Silver Wheel, or Iris, Goddess of the Rainbow. It is a stone of magick, and has been used by shamans, magicians, and healers alike since before its official discovery. Labradorite is a powerful protector, shielding the aura and guarding its bearer from all types of misfortune. The stone does not only ward off danger but actively draws forth beneficial "coincidences". It enhances all psychic abilities (clairvoyance, telepathy, prophecy, astral travel, etc.), assists communication with higher powers, and opens the Akashic Records. In fact, the stone's nickname - the Temple of the Stars - can be seen as a direct reference to the Akashic Records. Labradorite eases the transition of moving between worlds and the return to the present. The stone tempers the negative side of one's personality, reducing anti-social or reckless behavior, anger, and depression, bringing out the best in people. As a result, it can be a beneficial addition to the workplace. 

Chakra Association: Fifth (Throat) chakra

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Moon

*Magickal healing should never take the place of seeing a doctor and following any recommended prescriptions, actions, or other advice. Magick works best in tandem with physical efforts, anyway, so don't skimp on those check-ups!

August 6th, 2014

The second stone I bought at Faery Fest is commonly called Peacock Ore, due to its flashy, metallic colors. I should note that this is a stone that is becoming less common - unless you are actively seeking out lapidary stores or vendors, you may never see it. I suspect that this is to do with the Copper content (at least 60% according to one source); with Copper being so highly valued at present, it seems likely that more of this ore is being refined into metal as opposed to being sold to collecting metaphysicians. Also, just for the record, this is post #300! Thank you so much to all my wonderful readers for putting up with my crazy and sticking with this thing I call a blog.

Peacock Ore

Physical Characteristics: This mineral begins as a coppery-red and then tarnishes to beautiful iridescent shades of blue-green and purple. If the sample contains Pyrite, this will be visible as gold flecks on the surface.

In Nature: Also called Bornite (and sometimes incorrectly Chalcopyrite), Peacock Ore is a sulfide and is an important source of commercial Copper. It is found in Copper deposits and as dissemination in magnesium-rich igneous rocks, metamorphic deposits, and sedimentary shales.

Chemical Composition: Cu5FeS4

Mohs Scale Hardness: 3 (low)

Can be Found: USA, England, Austria, Zimbabwe

Healing Properties*: In terms of healing, this stone promotes cellular regeneration and will heal the spiritual and physical causes of most ailments.

Magickal Properties: Peacock Ore is associated mostly with energy work. As a multicolored stone, it opens and balances all chakras, also removing energy blockages. Moreover, its benefits to one's psychic senses and abilities are numerous. Peacock Ore opens the mind to ancient esoteric knowledge and may help one access the Akashic Records. The stone opens new avenues for self growth, and is a valuable meditation aide. It dispels negativity and is generally a mood lifter.

Chakra Association: All

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Mercury

*Magickal healing should never take the place of seeing a doctor and following any recommended prescriptions, actions, or other advice. Magick works best in tandem with physical efforts, anyway, so don't skimp on those check-ups!

August 8th, 2013

Lepidolite

Physical Characteristics: Lepidolite is a form of Mica that appears in a classic mottling of white, lavender, purple, and sometimes pink.

In Nature: The stone is often found in the same rock as Tourmaline and Amblygamite. Its color comes from the presence of Lithium in the stone.

Chemical Composition: K(Li, Al)3(Al, Si)4O10(F, OH)2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 2.5 - 4 (low)

Can be Found: The United States and Brazil

Healing Properties*: With regard to health, Lepidolite helps its bearer to overcome insomnia as well as all kinds of addictions, including anorexia and similar disorders. Placed on the body, Lepidolite finds the source of disease, allegedly giving off a gentle vibration when it locates the problem. It combats a wide range of conditions, from the average (allergies, exhaustion, etc.) to the severe (Alzheimer's and epilepsy). A glass of water in which a chunk of Lepidolite has been soaked is an ideal elixir for dealing with the effects of menopause. The stone is a powerful painkiller and reduces the ill-effects of anaesthetics. Likewise, it may reduce one's dependency on medication.

Magickal Properties: Lepidolite is a stone epitomizing calm, trust, and acceptance, thus enhancing self-love, patience, and optimism. It is extremely useful to those working to reduce stress, depression, and obsessive modes of thought. As a stone of transformation, Lepidolite releases old psychological and behavioral patterns, thus inducing change. It calms the mind in periods of transition and encourages the ability to achieve goals independently. It is a wonderful agent of dream recall, and lends growing energy to gardening endeavors. The stone attracts supportive friends and colleagues, as well as opportunities to succeed. Given its purple color, Lepidolite is a stone of spirituality and grants access to spiritual realms and the Akashic Records. It is reassuring for those new to psychic work, or for those who previously had a bad psychic experience.

Chakra Association: Fourth (Hearth), Fifth (Throat), Sixth (Third Eye), and Seventh (Crown) chakras

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Jupiter and Neptune

*Magickal healing should never take the place of seeing a doctor and following any recommended prescriptions, actions, or other advice. Magick works best in tandem with physical efforts, anyway, so don't skimp on those check-ups!