August 29th, 2016

Rhodonite

Physical Characteristics: This Manganese-containing mineral occurs in a rosy pink along with blacks and browns formed through surface oxidation.

In Nature: Rhodonite crystals are thick and tabular, but are rare. More commonly, it occurs in masses. It is found in metamorphic rocks where other Manganese-bearing minerals are common. Other varieties containing Iron, Magnesium, Calcium, and/or Zinc also exist.

Chemical Composition: (Mn⁺², Fe⁺², Mg, Ca) SiO3

Mohs Scale Hardness: 5.5 - 6.5 (middle)

Can be Found: Russia, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Sweden, Peru, England, USA

Healing Properties*: Considered an ideal crystal for healing minor injuries (cuts, insect bites, etc.), Rhodonite is also thought to heal serious illnesses like auto-immune diseases or Parkinson's. For these purposes, one might pair Rhodonite with Rhodochrosite. The stone also strengthens the internal organs and can assist the body in passing gallstones or kidney stones.

Magickal Properties: With a name that comes from the Greek "rhodos" meaning "rosy", Rhodonite is a stone of the heart and the emotions. Its primary use is for dispelling anxiety, envy, and jealousy. Nurturing love, Rhodonite increases self-assurance and provides calming energy in a strained environment. Rhodonite offers equilibrium after a major upset of any kind, and can restore energy which has been drained as the result of emotional trauma. Victims of physical or emotional abuse may find working with Rhodonite a helpful coping mechanism.
Another name for Rhodonite is "Orletz"; allegedly, the crystal was discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, where the locals had noticed eagles carrying pebbles of it up to their nests. The name Orletz translates to "Eagle Stone". Finding documentation of this is difficult, but at least one Russian mineralogy site lists Orletz as an alternate name, lending the story some credence. The story goes on to say that it became custom to put Rhodonite in the cradles of babies and the pockets of travelers for protection. It is the national stone of Russia, and incidentally also the state stone of Massachusetts in the USA.

Chakra Association: Heart (Fourth) Chakra

Element: Fire

Energy: Projective

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!

July 16th, 2016

Bubblegum Agate

Physical Characteristics: This is a kind of eye Agate, which gives it a spotted appearance. Bubblegum varieties are typically red, pink, yellow, and/or grey.

In Nature: Scientists remain uncertain how eye Agates form, but one theory shared in Minnesota Rocks & Minerals states that this formation, which occurs in gas bubbles called vesicles, happens when the vesicle is given access to more silica than other Agates of a comparable size, and that excess material interacts with the crystal structure to build the hemispherical spots. Eye Agates are usually small, pea- to palm-sized.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6.5 - 7 (high)

Can be Found: South Dakota, USA

Healing Properties*: None noted beyond the psychological benefits listed below.

Magickal Properties: As they are fairly rare, there is little research readily available on the metaphysical properties of Bubblegum Agate outside of some anecdotal information. That being said, one crystal healer's YouTube series describes it as a stone of the inner child, helping one rediscover a lost sense of playfulness and wonder. Additionally, if you are the sort of person who has difficulty indulging or taking time for yourself, Bubblegum Agate can help you better manage your self-care.

Chakra Association: First (Root) chakra

Element: Fire

Energy: Projective

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!

December 27th, 2013

It's amazing, all the little signs that come to us sometimes, saying that all is well. About a week ago, I was feeling a bit low at work when I found this:

It's the sequel to the first Rupert's Tales book that I found sometime last year, including narrative poems about Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, and Ostara (the author is Kyrja). It made me smile, and I set it on the top of the shelf as a display item. Hopefully the next person to find it smiles, too.

December 23rd, 2013

It is bitterly cold outside - I had trouble getting the car started after work! Yikes! Yule is past, but if you're bundled up indoors and looking for a project, here's a great one to put together this holiday season:

Yule Seed Amulets

The legend goes much like this: malevolent spirits are just that - malevolent. And on the solstices, like Samhain, the veil separating the Otherworld from ours is much thinner than its usual. These Astral nasties may choose to come bother we mortals with a string of bad luck. Fortunately for us, lesser spirits of this variety have a few consistent weaknesses. For one, they abhor salt. For another, they tend to be a bit OCD. By mixing salt and protective herbs in a small jar, any spirit of ill intent passing by it will be forced to sit and count the jar's contents, keeping them from making mischief until they leave at sun-up.
Making yourself one of these amulets is a fun, easy way to keep your home clear of negativity - moreover, the kids will get a kick out of putting them together, too. Once finished, hang the completed jar on doors, set on the porch, or hide in other creative places around the home. They also make great gifts.

Supplies:

• Glass jar of desired size
• Tightly fitting lid for the jar
• Yarn, ribbon, twine, or thread
• Salt
• Enough protective herbs to mostly fill the jar (examples include...)
• Anise
• Basil
• Bayleaf
• Belladonna
• Black pepper
• Chamomile
• Chives
• Cinnamon
• Clove
• Comfrey
• Fennel
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Lavender
• Lime
• Mint
• Nutmeg
• Willow
• Other decorations (optional)

To Make:
Pour a layer of salt into the bottom of the jar. Then add herbs until it is full.
Seeds are the best option, although in the case of cinnamon, ginger, and other like spices, a ground powder may be better. Whole or crumbled leaves can also be used as desired. Just remember that the goal is to give our less pleasant visitors something to count, so definitely include at least one ingredient that is small in size. The herbs listed above are just ideas - you only need to use one variety, and may certainly employ something not on my list. Including layers or mixtures of different herbs might make the amulet prettier. Even glitter can be added - this is an especially good option for a jar going in a child's room. Once you have the contents to your liking, screw on the lid tightly and if it is meant to hang on, above, or next to a door tie on a piece of yarn or ribbon. Other decorations may be added as desired - a small pentacle charm, for example, or other carving of a protective symbol. Sigils of protection can also be drawn or painted right onto the glass.

 

This larger jar might get set among the flowerpots or next to the stoop.

August 15th, 2013

Andalusite Fairy Cross

Physical Characteristics: This unique crystal bears the shape of an equal-armed cross when sliced vertically.

In Nature: Usually found near granite deposits, Fairy Crosses made of Andalusite (also called Chiastolite) form when bulges of Andalusite fuse to a central (often square) piece of Mica.

Chemical Composition: Al2SiO5

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6 - 7.5 (middle-high)

Can be Found: United States, Spain, Switzerland

Healing Properties*: These stones reduce stress and help their bearers deal with addictive habits, especially smoking. They reduce fever and have been a historical helpmate for those suffering depression. Crosses of the Andalusite variety heal disorders of the hands and eyes, oxygenate the blood, and promote proper chromosomal development. They may also strengthen the body's ability to learn and remember. The stones prove especially useful to those wishing to heal pets or children, as these are creatures favored by the Fey.

Magickal Properties: In Christian folklore, it is said that the first Fairy Crosses were formed when the Fey wept tears over Jesus' crucifixion. From a Pagan perspective, the same story could be told, only in reference to the sacrificial death of the Horned God. Additionally, an equal-armed cross often denotes the four elements; use this stone to balance elemental energies in your life. Those in possession of a Fairy Cross may work stronger weather and gardening magicks as well. The stone casts a protective aura around its bearer, and is excellent for grounding work. Fairy Crosses are a "cross"roads for the physical and astral realms - use it to strengthen communication with all creatures of spirit: angels, fairies, devas, guides, etc. They dispel illusion and misunderstanding and represent devotion, change, and power.

Chakra Association: First (Root) chakra

Element: All four elements can be accessed with a Fairy Cross.

Energy: Receptive and Projective

Planetary Association: Pluto

*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, 2013

You all had to know this was coming. After buying nine new stones at the Faery Fest, I'm set in terms of blog posts for over a week. Let's start with a classic...

Jade

Physical Characteristics: Jade comes in a variety of colors, including green, lavender, orange, black, and white. Imperial Jade, the most valuable variety, is a very deep, almost emerald-toned green. Given its degree of hardness, Jade has been a popular carving stone since the Neolithic period, being a choice material for ornamentation and for more practical hardware, like weaponry.

In Nature: The term Jade actually applies to two different metamorphic stones: Nephrite and Jadeite. This distinction was not discovered until the 19th century. While it is an important difference to scientists and others working with stones for mundane purposes, the metaphysical value of Nephrite and Jadeite are more or less identical.

Chemical Composition: Ca2(Mg, Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2

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

Can be Found: Guatemala, Myanmar, Canada, China, New Zealand, India, Korea

Healing Properties*: Jade strengthens the heart and kidneys as well as the nervous and immune systems. In tandem with this, the stone purifies the blood and boosts the organs that do the same. Green Jade is especially useful in counteracting depression. Other colors of Jade may posess additional healing properties.

Magickal Properties: On occasion referred to as the "Dream Stone", Jade is notable for its ability to assist the bearer in reaching non-physical realms. It is also protective, warding off negative energy. Employ it to banish negative spirits. Jade assists in moving past self-imposed restrictions and bestows resourcefulness. Its energy manifests one's wishes on the material plane. Considered lucky, this stone facilitates peace and harmony between the mental, spiritual, and physical parts of the body. Furthermore, Jade encourages the development of courage, compassion, justice, generosity, humility, wealth, and longevity in its bearer. Green Jade in particular is known for bestowing prophetic dreams, should such dreams be one's desire. Jade is likewise renown for its ability to draw love, especially when coupled with butterfly imagery. One can also use it in all matters relating to physical love: childbirth, sexual dysfunction, and even in protecting against sexual abuse and harassment. Given its association both with money and inspiration, it is an ideal stone for businessmen and artists, particularly of the musical variety. The stone empowers one to be oneself, even in the face of peer pressure, dogmatic restrictions, exaggerated militarism, etc.

Chakra Association: Fourth (Heart) Chakra

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 5th, 2013

Whoo hoo! The World of Faeries Festival was AWESOME!
I went over to Hazelnut’s house on Friday night. We were up Saturday morning at 6:30 to get into costume and buy our lunch for the day at Subway. Since we were volunteering, we had to be at the festival grounds by 8:30; she and I helped set things up and got an early look around at the vendors.

Here's me as a Time Faery named Amser.

And here's Hazelnut as a Fox Faery named Corra.

The grounds were beautiful - we had perfect weather both Saturday and Sunday. It was warm but not hot, and there was always a gentle breeze going.

New this year to the Fest was this gorgeous Andalusian Unicorn. His rider performed a bit of dressage, and all the little fairy girls and boys got to pet his (very soft) nose.

There were a lot of other great costumes, including Nautica, the Water Faery.

There was also the ever-popular "statue lady" and her pet dove, Noah.

Then, completely by surprise, we ran into Raincloud and her recently acquired boyfriend, Fox. It was wonderful to see them again!

In addition to all the wonderful people, the Faery Fest always includes wonderful things to purchase. I spent a boatload of cash, but I haven't even the tiniest of regrets. What all did I get? Let us see...

 

The final count includes:

• Beaded pentacle necklace
• Beaded Goddess necklace
• Tumbled Howlite
• Tumbled Angelite
• Tumbled Celestite
• Tumbled Lapis Lazuli
• Tumbled Lepidolite
• Tumbled Apache Tear
• Tumbled Fairy Cross
• Tumbled Jade
• Tumbled Serpentine, carved with a Goddess figure
• De-Stress medicine pouch including seven additional stones
• Clock and key necklace
• Fairy dust necklace
• Nectarine-Guava lip balm
• Spearmint-Eucalyptus soap
• Mini steampunk top hat (see following picture)
• Celtic cross earrings and matching Snowflake Obsidian necklace (not pictured)

See? It has little elastic bands on the bottom for sliding onto headbands.

My legs will be stiff for a week, but I couldn't have had more fun with my friend. Can't wait for next year!

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!

April 29th, 2013

Due to a musical festival going on at my school this afternoon, we were released early, and I got home at 11:30! I was struck while walking back from the bus stop by just how nice today's weather is. In my little corner of the world, it's a balmy 70 degrees with a gentle breeze, birds singing, trees budding, and dozens of perky dandelions popping up to see what's going on. I get grumpy during the winter, being cooped up inside all day, and now that we're getting deep into spring I just feel like opening all the windows and drinking in the fresh air.
In thinking of all things Pagan, it occurred to me just now that Beltane is this Wednesday! It looks like the good weather hit just in time for the sabbat, folks. I won't be doing a big Maypole dance or anything (non-Pagan parents and all), but I have a miniature version I crafted last year that's both cute and simple.

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To make an altar-sized Maypole, you will need:

• One wooden dowel
• Two ribbons 
• One red, one white, and both double the length of the dowel
• A thumb tack
• Any desired paints or decorations

If you wish to do so, decorate the dowel with paints, glitter, stickers, and any

other desired mediums. This is an easy projects for kids, so feel free to get the little ones involved. Hold the finished dowel firmly in place. If you have a narrow vase you can put it in, or a ball of play-doh in which to stick the end, that works too (1). Lay the middle of the two ribbons over the end of the dowel, crossing each other, so that the halves of each ribbon hang down the sides in equal length (2). It should look like you have four shorter ribbons attached to the pole's top. Then secure the ribbons in place by driving the thumb tack all the way into the dowel through the ribbons (3). Depending on your dowel size, it looks something like a little cap on the rod's end.
That's all there is to it - in ritual or at another desired time, braid the ribbons around the dowel as you would a larger Maypole. I only used the two long ribbons because four shorter ones were all I could handle alone. If you plan to use your altar Maypole with a friend or two, add more ribbons as desired.

March 16th, 2013

At long last, I'm getting around to posting this! 

Moonstone

 

 
Physical Characteristics: Moonstone can come in a variety of shades, from almost clear to a beautiful light blue. Looking closely, one might see pink, green, and apricot hues.

In Nature: This stone is composed of many thin layers of feldspar fused together; these refract light, giving the stone its characteristic rainbow-like appearance.

Chemical Composition: (NaK)AlSi3O8

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6 (middle)

Can be Found: Australia, Mexico, Madagascar, Burma, Norway, Poland, India, Sri Lanka, and the United States

Healing Properties*: Use Moonstone to assist with female bodily dysfunction and childbirth, or to relieve the lymphatic system, stomach, pancreas, and pituitary gland. It could also be employed to reduce swelling and excess body fluids.

Magickal Properties: Moonstone carries the vibration of Goddess energy, and is thus reflective and calming. It strengthens psychic and intuitive perception and brings the user into balance with Spirit. The stone is said to grant wishes, and aids in dieting, gardening, and meditation. Moonstone soothes stress, anxiety, and women's hormones; it further helps prevent one from being overcome emotionally. The stone assists those of either gender in becoming more comfortable with their feminine side. Water signs find Moonstone ideal, as do gardeners, dancers, and artists. To cure insomnia, pair Moonstone with Amethyst. In magick, Moonstone makes an excellent substitute for Pearl. It draws love and is gently protective of its bearer, especially while travelling and/or while on the water, while also providing wealth and prophetic abilities. Matched with Garnet, the stone reveals the truth behind illusions and will unmask enemies. Moonstone opens the gateway to the subconscious, especially at the full moon. Finally, employ the stone to strengthen one's connection with a patronus or spirit guide.

Chakra Association: Because of its range of properties, Moonstone works with several: the Second, or Sacral, the Fourth, or Heart, and the Sixth, or Third Eye, chakras.

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Moon (I know it's not 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!

Blue Lace Agate

Blue Lace Agate

 

Physical Characteristics: Blue Lace Agate is a periwinkle blue stone characterized by banding in pale grey and white. As this coloration resembles a cloudy sky, this Agate has been nicknamed the "Stone of Ecology".

In Nature: A form of chalcedony, Blue Lace Agate forms when siliceous matter crystallizes inside cracks in lava rock or granite.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6.5 - 7 (middle-high)

Can be Found: Namibia, South Africa, Germany

Healing Properties*: This Agate may be used to lessen pain from arthritis, bone and/or growing pains, headaches, and digestive disorders. For centuries, the stone has been used to quench thirst and cure fevers.

Magickal Properties: Blue Lace Agate assists in flight - use it for astral travel or even to get a discount on those airplane tickets you need. It increases grace and agility, and helps one reach higher spiritual planes. The stone has a strong calming effect, reducing anger and uneasiness, while the blue color stimulates the Throat Chakra, improving communication and even helping one overcome speech impediments. Persian magicians used this stone to divert storms, perhaps making the above connection between the stone and the sky. One might also use it to discern truth, prevent insomnia, and increase analytical abilities. Furthermore, the stone has a long history of protecting children, especially from falling. This is a Pisces stone (that's me!), and as such, I would infer that Blue Lace Agate could be used to stimulate creativity, the ability to visualize, and positive dreams.

Chakra Association: The Fifth - or Throat - Chakra

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!

February 13th, 2013

I got an Ammonite shell while on a field trip at the aquarium the other day, and, as per the usual, I am going to post my research on it here. Fun, huh?

Ammonite

Physical Characteristics: Ammonite is the fossilized shell of a prehistoric animal, characterized by a spiral shape. The Ammonite is named after the Egyptian god Ammon, as the god was depicted with curling rams' horns, and the Ammonite resembles these. They have also been called "draconites" (linked to dragons) and "snake stones".

In Nature: In the Devonian period (about 400 million years ago), these were aquatic creatures found throughout the world's ocean. When the animals died, their shells fell to the sea floor, and over millions of years were turned into fossils. Different varieties can be as small as an inch to as large as almost 7 feet in diameter.

Chemical Composition: Variable

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6 - 6.5 (middle)

Can be Found: England, United States, Canada, Madagascar, Alberta

Healing Properties*: Ammonites are not connected with any one particular disease or part of the body; instead, they can be used for general good health. They can assist in childbirth, and may alleviate depression. The "stone" helps repair the body's aura and natural energy centers - it turns negative or blocked energy into positive energy that flows smoothly.

Magickal Properties: Associated with the ram, Ammonites are sacred in many cultures; in Ethiopia, they were used to aid prophetic dreaming. They were also employed to reach a deep meditative state. Ammonite helps one find one's way in the "spiral dance" of life, and can be useful to those wishing to perform past-life regression. These fossils radiate positive earth energy and draw prosperity. Use Ammonite to let go of karmic debts and harmful thought patterns. It stimulates one's instincts and builds personal power. These fossils are representative of time and eternity; they can be worn as protective amulets and may increase life span.

Chakra Association: Ammonite is most associated with the First (or Root) chakra, and may be used to activate Kundalini energies.

Element: Akasha (Spirit)

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: None noted

*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!

October 16th, 2012

I was at the library last night, shelving books, when I came across a piece entitled Earth Mother, by Ellen Jackson. Intrigued, I took it with me to read on my break. I thought it was really sweet, and enjoyed the emotive illustrations. It's a great book for young children, and parents will like it too, with its message that we all have a place in the world, and that all living things are special and important. Here is Amazon.com's summary:

"The circle of life turns in unexpected ways. Earth Mother awakes with the dawn. As she walks the land, swims the seas, and climbs the mountains, nurturing all of creation, she comes across Man, Frog, and Mosquito. They each give her thanks for nature’s bounty, yet can’t help but give her advice about making their lives better. Everybody’s got an opinion, it seems, and Earth Mother is amused when it becomes clear that the circle of life is not without a healthy dose of cosmic humor."

August 9th, 2012

Getting ready to go back to school, and seeking ways to get the most out of the year? I know I am, and I've been rooting through my BOS, other books, and of course, the internet, looking for simple spells to enhance my learning. If you have a suggestion for me, I'd love to hear it! So far, all I've settled on definitively is that I'll be taking my Fluorite and Calcite and will empower them for memory. These I shall add to a pouch, along with a sprig of Rosemary, that I will wear on the first day of school, and at other times when I feel I need that extra boost.

If you would like to try the same, but don't have the stones, you could, of course, buy them, or substitute in other stones that have the ability to boost intelligence. A Clear Quartz is a good universal crystal that will work beautifully if you don't have any other options. Crystals not your thing? Try rolling the Rosemary in a tube of yellow paper, and perhaps adding a feather. Both of these are symbols of the Element Air, and it is these elementals that bring intelligence and wisdom. I'll keep you posted as I come up with other spells and ideas.

Today's stone, for those interested in my running saga, is Malachite.

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Malachite

Physical Characteristics: Malachite is a stone coming in a deep green with banding in a bright, almost lime, shade. It may be tumbled or raw. It is also available in polished clumps.

In Nature: Often results from the weathering of copper ores, and is typically found with Azurite. Associated with limestone deposits around the copper.

Chemical Composition: Cu2CO3(OH)2 (Copper Carbonate Hydroxide)

Mohs Scale Hardness: 4 (low-middle)

Can be Found: Worldwide, especially Russia, West Europe, the USA, Israel, Zambia, and Namibia

Healing Properties*: The stone wards off heart pains and cardiac asthma, and a daily bathing of the eyes in Malachite water strengthens the optic nerves. It decreases susceptibility to radiation illness, asthma, arthritis, and tumors, and aids in the function of the pancreas and spleen.

Magickal Properties: Malachite reminds us to renew our connection with the All. It improves one's outlook and releases stress to create new beginnings. It builds one's strength, and is the stone of pregnant women. The copper in the stone gives it a steady, pulsing electrical field, absorbing negative energies from the aura and protecting against outside negativity. Used with the Third Chakra, Malachite clears static or repressed emotion. The stone counteracts negative ideas about love and relationships, attracting positive love. Additionally, it is good for emotional stability and balance. Malachite can detect danger; legend says that the stone will break apart in warning of an immanent calamity. The stone lends its protective magick especially well to children, keeping away nightmares, the "evil eye", and other negative influences. Use in magickal rites to build power, as well as to increase control over where the energy is sent. It is a great stone for actors and public speakers, as it draws attention to one's person. According to Roman belief, use of Malachite can enable communion with animals and their spirits. Worn during business meetings, or placed in the cash register, Malachite increases one's sales and prosperity.

Chakra Association: Malachite works with all seven chakras, but has a special affinity for the Third, or Solar Plexus Chakra, and the Fourth, or Heart Chakra.

Element: Earth

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!

July 7th, 2012

Can I just say that I love Rose Quartz? I've been working some experiments with different stones lately, and today Hazelnut and I were really hoping to get together. However, we hadn't planned anything in advance, and you know how parents can be when you spring things on them. So I grabbed a piece of Rose Quartz, known for it's tendency to attract love, happiness, friendship, and other such positive emotion, and asked mom if I could have Hazelnut over. She agreed, right off the bat! And then I asked dad, and he said it's okay, too. Huzzah for positivity!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Rose Quartz is a stone with a pale pink to rosy hue. The coloration is caused by various minerals in the crystal, such as titanium, manganese, and iron.

This type of quartz is excellent for bringing peace to a home or workplace. It is known for the ability to calm violent tempers and soothe arguments. It causes negative energy to dissipate, and encourages optimism. Rose Quartz is also notable in its characteristic of manifesting self-love, as well as bringing positive relationships.  Here, it can be used for romantic love, to make new friends, or even to find the perfect pet.

Rose Quartz is also a stone of healing: place a piece next to the heart chakra, located in the center of the breastbone, to release negative energy and draw positive thought. In this way, one can also banish self-defeating thought, bad habits or addictions, and repressed emotion. The stone is a comforter to those dealing with poor body image, bullying, physical assault or harassment, and other negative experiences. It increases self-esteem, confidence, self-trust and trust in others, and acceptance.

Because of it's healing, loving qualities, Rose Quartz is an excellent "give-away" stone, appropriate for small children, teens, adults, and grandparents. Everyone can benefit from a piece of Rose Quartz. The stone is attractive, and as such, can be worked into beautiful jewelry, charms, and other gifts. Rose quartz also makes an excellent tip for a wand, particularly one to be used in a love spell.

One final note: if you are suffering an abusive relationship with someone, are being hurt, or are hurting yourself, Rose Quartz can help. But don't just leave it at that. A piece of mineral cannot solve all your problems. Talk to the authorities, a parent, a friend, or other trusted adult. Seek help, no matter what. Magick should always work in tandem with "mundane" effort!

February 20th, 2012

Today, I checked out (among other things) a book called Rupert's Tales from the library. It is a precious story about Rupert the rabbit who

"...sets out to discover how and why people leave their homes to celebrate seasonal holidays in the forest where he lives."

The book is by a woman who goes by Kyrja, and essentially explains the meaning behind Beltane, Litha, Lammas, and Mabon through the eyes of a rabbit. It is aimed at younger readers, but even I, as a high-schooler, was enchanted simply by the novelty of finding a Pagan picture book. I haven't finished it yet (it's quite long for a picture book!), but the Beltane story was simply adorable, and... I don't know... is magick in its own right. Somehow you can't not feel warm and fuzzy reading it, even if you are familiar with the meaning behind the Sabbats. I'd highly recommend it to anyone and everyone, but particularly if you have Pagan children!