April 9th, 2017

Bismuth

Physical Characteristics: Bismuth is a brittle white metal, but when oxidized will display iridescent colors ranging from red to yellow to blue. Its iconic stair-stepped shape results from a higher growth rate along its outside edges than on its interior. The metal is also strongly diamagnetic, meaning that it is repelled by magnetic fields, and is one of the principal components of MagLev train systems.

In Nature*: One of the periodic chemical elements, Bismuth is written with the symbol Bi, and has an atomic number of 83. It is chemically similar to arsenic, antimony, tin, and lead, but curiously has a much lower toxicity. It also has a very low thermal conductivity, and is weakly radioactive, though given that its half-life is a billion times the estimated age of the universe, it is considered stable in virtually all scientific scenarios and is harmless to humans.

*Note: Bismuth's crystal-lattice structure is rarely found in nature. As such, the Bismuth crystals on the market are lab-grown specimens. This does not decrease their metaphysical value, but it is something to be aware of. Websites claiming to sell natural Bismuth crystals are likely running a scam.

Chemical Composition: Bi

Mohs Scale Hardness: 2.25 (very low)

Can be Found: Australia, Bolivia, China, Vietnam, Mexico

Healing Properties*: Bismuth may be used to slow degenerative muscular conditions.

Magickal Properties: With a unique combination of chemical properties and a long, convoluted history of use, Bismuth is a very odd, not to mention fascinating, metal.

It was commonly utilized in alchemical practices, and even had its own designated symbol (see right image) which crops up in the work of such notable scientist-alchemists as Sir Isaac Newton, but records of how or why it was used do not appear to have survived. Modern-day scientists, including Glenn T. Seaborg, continued this ancient tradition by using nuclear collisions to transform Bismuth into Gold as recently as 1980. This website provides an interesting overview of the major alchemical metals, and provides a good background of the associated semiotics and history, but even there Bismuth is not mentioned except in passing.

As with many multicolored or iridescent crystals, Bismuth can be used as a point of focus in shamanic journeying, astral projection, etc. It could act as a focusing crystal in other areas of life as well, and may be beneficial to people with ADHD or other neurotypes characterized by poor executive function. It also enhances visualization, and may improve meditation experiences.

Bismuth reduces feelings of isolation, and can improve connections with other people. Its rainbow colors make it ideal for energy work, and it can be instrumental in cleansing the aura.

Chakra Association: All, but especially the Crown (Seventh) Chakra

Element: Air

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Saturn

*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!

July 17th, 2016

I've had some research on Aventurine written up for a long time now, but I apparently never typed it out. Since I've been posting about the stones I acquired while on vacation, of which a rough piece of Aventurine was one, this seems like as good a time as any to publish this.

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Aventurine

Physical Characteristics: Aventurine is most commonly found as a green, lustrous stone, although orange and brown varieties also exist.

In Nature: This stone's characteristic shine comes from the inclusion of Fuschite, a Muscovite-bearing Mica. The effect is referred to as "aventurescence". Aventurine may be confused with Sunstone or Malachite, while Goldstone, also known as Aventurine Glass, may be sold as imitation Aventurine.

Chemical Composition: K(Al, Cr)2AlSi3O10(OH)2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 (high)

Can be Found: Primarily India, Chile, and east of the American Rockies; also Brazil, Russia, Spain, Austria, and Tanzania

Healing Properties*: Green Aventurine is a helpful partner in psychotherapy, treating heart and lung disorders, and increasing muscle flexibility. It also improves eyesight. The stone treats skin disease, such as eczema and other rashes, and eliminates warts. It improves metabolism and the digestive system.

Magickal Properties: Aventurine is a lucky stone, especially the green variety. It brings opportunity, and is most often noted as a stone for gamblers. Additionally, Aventurine strengthens one's sense of self and helps to reinforce a positive outlook. Relieving anxiety, Aventurine soothes the emotions. It enhances a healthy sense of humor and cheerfulness, and may also draw unexpected adventure or luck in love. Aventurine provides balance and can aid in dreaming. It clears the aura, and helps one to find independence. Moreover, the stone encourages creativity, and brings success to artists.

Chakra Association: Sixth (Third Eye) and Seventh (Crown) chakras

Element: Air

Energy: Projective

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!

Aragonite

I've finished posts about the crystals I bought at Fairy Fest, but that doesn't mean my blog is totally up-to-date yet. As it so happens, I was recently able to identify two of the crystals that came in an assorted box way back at the beginning of last school year. I'm extremely excited about this, and eager to share my new knowledge with the internet.

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Aragonite

Physical Characteristics: Repeated twinning of the crystals can result in pseudo-hexagonal forms. It may also appear fibrous, branching, or columnar. It comes in clear, brown, yellow, pink, or green varieties.

In Nature: Aragonite is a carbonate mineral, but with a different crystal structure from Calcite. It forms in many marine creatures' exoskeletons, including mollusks and corals.

Chemical Composition: CaCO3

Mohs Scale Hardness: 3.5 (low)

Can be Found: Spain, USA, UK, the oceans

Healing Properties*: Use this crystal to heal broken bones or damage to the nerves. It relieves stress and related symptoms, such as restlessness or twitching. Additionally, it can improve circulation in the body's extremities. 

Magickal Properties: Named for its place of discovery in Aragon, Spain, Aragonite is a healer of the earth and a good choice for conservationists or people who regularly work with the land. If one lives in an area greatly disturbed by industrialization, this crystal can help return balance and ease sources of geopatbic stress (e.g. electrical boxes or wires). 
It strengthens all of the lower chakras, boosting self-confidence. It also has a grounding effect, particularly for those who find themselves struggling with self-care and necessary tasks.
Clusters of the crystal send out energy in all directions, and are therefore ideal for auric cleansings. Meditating with it can be intense, as it brings back repressed memories and memories from past lives. 

Chakra Association: First (Root), Second (Sacral), and Third (Solar Plexus)

Element: Earth

Energy: Projective/receptive

Planetary Association: Mercury, Saturn

*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!

September 15th, 2014

So after buying a boat-load of crystals this last weekend, I've been trying to sit down and identify them and realized that I've never done a post about Amethyst. Really? But 'tis so. I don't even have an entry in my notebook about it yet. If that isn't a glaring oversight, I don't know what is. Allow me, then, to remedy this egregious error on my part with this:

Amethyst

Physical Characteristics: Amethyst occurs in colors ranging from pink to deep purple. It may also posses red and/or blue hues. These colors are products of iron and other trace elements in the silica structure, as well as natural irradiation. Artificial irradiation may be used to turn Amethyst into false Citrine.

In Nature: This crystal can be found in numerous forms, but most typically as clusters or geodes. Some underground caverns have been opened which are totally filled with Amethyst points.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 (middle-high)

Can be Found: Brazil, Uruguay, South Korea, Austria, Zambia, USA

Healing Properties*: This stone may be employed as a pain reliever for conditions like arthritis. It also addresses diabetes, circulation, and fatigue, as well as asthma. Pregnant mothers may wear it to ensure a safe childbirth and to prevent miscarriage. Those who suffer strong premenstrual symptoms can get relief from an Amethyst. Although Amethyst can be used to accelerate the healing of illness and injury, its primary powers are focused on substance abuse. In fact, the name "Amethyst" comes from the Greek "Amethustos", "a-" being a prefix used still in modern English to mean "not" and "methustos" being "intoxicated". One myth describes how the titan Rhea gave Dionysus (Greek god of wine, theatre, and revelry) an Amethyst to preserve the wine drinker's sanity. In the 1500s, a French poet expanded on this theme by describing how Bacchus (the Roman version of Dionysus) pursued a woman named Amethyste, who refused his advances. The girl prayed for chastity, and Diana answered her, turning her into a beautiful white crystal, because this was how the Greek and Roman deities dealt with mortal problems. Remorseful, Bacchus poured an offering of wine over the stone, staining it purple. Whatever the origin of the crystal's association with liquor, it is a significant one which went so far as to influence some Christians - Western bishops may wear a ring set with Amethyst, alluding to Acts 2:15 wherein the Apostals manage to be sober at 9:00 in the morning for Pentacost. If overcoming alcoholism is one's goal, Amethyst is a tool which will work to your benefit. 

Magickal Properties: When I think "Amethyst", I think "calming". This stone is one of the most powerful emotional soothers in the mineral kingdom. Practically sedative in nature, it promotes calm, happiness, and contentment, easing anxiety and fear. It builds inner fortitude as well as flexibility, changing how its bearer responds to mental and geopathic stressors. With its extremely high vibration, expect Amethyst to clear negativity from the aura. A cluster set in a room will affect the energy of the entire space (I never put mine away!). Not only does this crystal soothe, but it also guards against danger, helping its bearer feel even more at-ease. Worn by travelers, it wards off those who may seek to take them at their advantage, while soldiers wear it to remain clear-headed in the heat of battle. If psychic attack in any form is a concern, Amethyst will divert the negativity. Powerful also in other psychic endeavors, use the stone to open the Third Eye, to meditate, and to lucid dream. Further prescribed uses include telepathy, past-life regression, clairaudience, and communing with spirits, angels in particular. The stone prevents insomnia, and is one of the best stones with which to banish nightmares, especially those which are recurrent. Dionysus was not just the god of alcohol - he was also the patron of the theatre and other visual and performance arts. His connection to the Amethyst therefore makes it an artist's stone, engendering creativity. 

Chakra Association: Sixth (Third Eye) and Seventh (Crown) chakras

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Saturn

*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!

A side note:
There are other forms of Amethyst. For one example, check out Ametrine. Another kind, which came in the box of assorted crystals I just purchased, is called Chevron Amethyst.

• Physical: Alternating bands of white Quartz and Amethyst in a chevron (V) pattern.
• Magickal: A powerful spiritual stone, and one of the best for working with the Third Eye. It deepens meditative states and opens access to higher realms. Any psychic venture will benefit from a Chevron Amethyst.

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!

Dumortierite

Dumortierite

 

Physical Characteristics: Dumortierite ranges in color, and may be found in brown, blue, green, pink, or violet.

In Nature: This stone occurs in metamorphic rocks rich in aluminium and is used the manufacture of high grade porcelain.

Chemical Composition: Al7BO3(SiO4)3(O, OH)3

 
Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 - 8.5 (medium - high)

Can be Found: Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Italy, Madagascar, Namibia, Norway, Poland, Russia, Sri Lanka, and the United States

Healing Properties*: This Blue Quartz disinflames the throat and thyroid, and provides a bodily detox. The stone is beneficial to the spleen, endocrine system, and blood.

Magickal Properties: Dumortierite assists communication between the upper and lower chakras and balances one's spiritual energy with one's physical. Clean your aura with the stone to speed up the process. It is a student's crystal, boosting mental discipline by keeping the mind focused and also by boosting the speed at which one accumulates data. It enhances organization and determination, as well as enhancing creativity and self-expression. The stone lifts depression and stubbornness and eases emotional tension. Dumortierite stimulates the verbalization of spiritual ideas, opens the psychic centers, and enhances contact with spirit guides and angels. Use it provide stamina both in unyielding situations and times of illness, and creates patience in its bearer. 

Chakra Association: Fifth (Throat) and Sixth (Third Eye) chakras

Element: Air

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: 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!

Chrysocolla

Chrysocolla

 

Physical Characteristics: Because of its blue color, this stone may be confused with turquoise.

In Nature: Chrysocolla forms in the oxidation zones of Copper ore and is usually found in masses, not individual crystals. It may also be found as vein fillings.

Chemical Composition: (Cu, Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4·nH2O

Mohs Scale Hardness: 2 (low)

Can be Found: Worldwide, but especially the USA and Australia

Healing Properties*: The stone raises the metabolism and may assist those seeking to achieve a healthy weight. It provides relief from ulcers and arthritis. Chrysocolla also alleviates cramps, infections of the throat, liver toxicity, and high blood pressure.

Magickal Properties: Chrysocolla is generally associated with peace and tranquility, as well as intuition, patience, and unconditional love. It is a powerful stone of life-force energy and feminine empowerment. Chrysocolla releases feelings of guilt, fear, and tension, building one's inner strength. It releases resentment and helps admit forgiveness. It is extremely helpful to releasing anger and pain related to all forms of abuse. The stone promotes promotes level headedness and clarity of thought. Chrysocolla enhances creativity, female energy, and communication. Lay it on the Third Eye to enhance spirituality. The stone bridges the earth and sky as well as the physical and astral realms.

Chakra Association: Fourth (Heart) chakra, though it lightens the aura and removes blockages from all seven.

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Venus

*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 13th, 2013

Sorry about my absence of posts yesterday, I was doing some very important things before school starts again on Monday (no, I was not writing fanfiction, why would you accuse me of that?). Then this morning, I went in to get my first driver's license, and I passed! So excited! My third and final bit of personal news is that we'll be having a Japanese foreign exchange student stay with us for 10 days, starting next Tuesday. Her name is Miho, and we've gotten to talk a bit. She seems really nice; can't wait to meet her! All right, without further ado... 

Angelite

Physical Characteristics: Angelite is the common name for Blue Anhydrite, which can occur in variations of pale blue, grey, and off-white. The stone is almost exactly Gypsum, only without any water in its chemical structure. 

A Public Service Announcement: DO NOT cleanse Angelite in water. Your stone will thank you.

In Nature: Because Angelite is only found in the absence of water, it is usually located in arid regions.

Chemical Composition: CaSO4

Mohs Scale Hardness: 3.5 (low)

Can be Found: Austria, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Canada, the United States

Healing Properties*: Angelite relieves all kinds of physical and psychological pain and protects against cruelty and abuse. Its domain is that of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, healing inflammations of the throat, upper body, lungs, and the base of the skull. It balances bodily fluids and reduces the severity of of stomach ulcers and sunburn.

Magickal Properties: Angelite is an excellent balancer, aligning the physical body with the ethereal. The stone assists in contacting angelic beings, astral travel, and heightening sensory awareness. It also fosters telepathic communication, provided that both persons are carrying a piece of the stone. If the piece has been programmed for telepathy, so much the better. Angelite provides inner peace, tranquility, and focus, and endows its bearer with compassion, pity, and tenderness. It increases one's commitment to alleviating suffering. The stone creates a protective energy shield around where it is placed or held, and as a communication stone it is ideal for positively dealing with anger. Angelite may be used as an aura cleanser.

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

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Venus

*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!

June 22nd, 2013

Well, I promised a post about Selenite, so I guess I'd best deliver, huh? I must admit, I was very excited when Grandma gave me that candle holder - I've been wanting a bit of Selenite for a while, and anything that will hold one of my numerous candles is a good thing!

Selenite

 

Physical Characteristics: Selenite is a crystalline form of Gypsum, often without imperfections. Though many specimens will have no inclusions to speak of, some Selenite can be found with really unusual inclusions, like fossils or liquid water - be aware that the properties of these will add to the stone's potential.

In Nature: This stone is an evaporite, forming in dried alkaline lake muds, clay beds, seas, salt flats, and caves. Specimens have been discovered dating back to the Silurian Period, making them about 443.7 million years old.

Chemical Composition: CaSO₄ · 2H₂O

Mohs Scale Hardness: 2 (very low)

Can be Found: Gypsums in general are very common, and can be found on all seven continents.

A Public Service Announcement: DO NOT cleanse Selenite in water. Because the chemical structure contains water, exposure to the liquid can cause the stone permanent damage.

Healing Properties*: In healing, the stone ensures the proper flow of bodily fluids (recall that Selenite is named for Selene, goddess of the Moon, and that the Moon causes the movement of bodies of water), including fluid in the spine. It aligns the spinal column and promotes flexibility. The stone may also guard against or reduce the severity of epileptic seizures. Selenite improves the body's capacity to absorb Calcium; if one is not properly assimilating vitamins and minerals, work a ritual with Selenite to correct the problem. It also protects women and unborn children during pregnancy.

Magickal Properties: Selenite is a stone of psychic communication, facilitating interaction with ancestors, deceased loved ones, spirit guides, and other higher beings. Use Selenite to boost telepathy, divinatory skill, and access to the Akashic Records. Professional mediums and clairvoyants may find the stone especially beneficial. As the stone's vibration is very fine, it brings clarity of the mind and opens the Crown Chakra. Use it to access higher consciousness. Selenite links with one's light body, helping to anchor it in earthly vibrations. Selenite is an effective cleanser and charger of other stones. Likewise, one can Lay it on the body or move it through the aura to balance the body's energy. The stone promotes dream recall and improves one's ability to access past life memories. Wands may be made of Selenite in a tabular crystal form; for example, I have seen Chakra Wands made with a Selenite base.

Chakra Association: The Sixth (Third Eye) and Seventh (Crown) Chakras are closely connected to Selenite, though the stone works with the others as well.

Element: Water

Energy: Projective

Planetary Association: Moon (I know it's not really a planet, but it's considered one in astrology.)

*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!