Fairy Fest Goodies

I got lots of neat things at the Fairy Festival this weekend.

Among the miscellaneous items I bought were some pieces of artwork, all of them by this artist. I'd seen the original of the mermaid painting on the right at an art fair in Iowa and loved it. When I saw she had little prints available, I had to pick one up. I also got some postcards to give to my girlfriend and friends at school. Then I found a dragon's blood soap, which is great, seeing as I can't burn the incense, some sachets to hold crystals, and a pentacle charm which I'm actually going to use in a Night Vale Girl Scouts cosplay.

In terms of crystals - because I just had to get some - I got two pieces of Sunstone, a Labradorite sphere, a Fluorite point, tumbled Rhodonite and Moonstone, Andara Crystal Glass (which was actually a gift from a man advertising his service as an energy worker), and a Citrine point.

Finally, I picked up this little hummingbird pin. The hummingbird is actually velcroed to the pin, so it can be swapped out with other accessories, or attached to headbands, clips, etc. It's so cute, and it's my favorite color, so I had to grab it.

Posts on the stones are upcoming. In the meantime, hope you're all enjoying your summer!

Kyanite

Kyanite

Physical Characteristics: A metamorphic rock which forms under high pressure, it is rich in aluminum, while the presence of manganese can turn it orange. It is most commonly blue, although black varieties also exist.

In Nature: Kyanite may display chatoyancy in the manner of Cat's Eye. Its presence is used to predict the temperature, depth, and pressure at which its host rock formed.

Chemical Composition: Al2SiO5

Mohs Scale Hardness: 4.5 - 5 (middle-low - middle)

Can be Found: Worldwide, wherever Gneiss, Schist, Pegmatite, and Quartz are put under high pressure

Healing Properties*: This stone may assist one with breaking addiction of any kind, or with healing diseases of the throat or larynx.

Magickal Properties: Like Citrine, Kyanite is a stone which recycles and and cleanses energy so thoroughly that it never needs to be cleansed itself. It has a calming effect on the entire body, neutralizing stress and fear. It also keeps one from feeling drained; for instance, an introvert might wear a piece to a party.
When meditating, Kyanite opens the mind to psychic abilities, heightening intuition. It can assist one in connecting to higher spirits, or in improving one's dream recall. Meditate with Kyanite to deepen your understanding of your identity. A balancing stone, it brings the chakras into alignment and nurtures trust and respect. 
As a stone of blue energy, Kyanite is a master of communication. Whether one is a diplomat, a thespian. or a public speaker, the stone can help to improve one's skills. Also, it assists in developing a solution or a compromise rather than arguing over the issue, and in bridging the gap between very different beliefs. 

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

Element: Air, water

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!

August 5th, 2015

Spirit Quartz (aka Cactus Quartz)

Physical Characteristics: Most Spirit Quartz is a variety of Amethyst, and so this post will focus on this type. However, some varieties may appear as Citrine, Smoky Quartz, or White Quartz, and these will have additional properties.

In Nature: Spirit Quartz occurs when hundreds of tiny points grow off the sides of a central, larger Quartz point. As stated above, most specimens are a subtype of Amethyst, and as such appear as a gentle purple or pink. Any specimen which appears to be iridescent in some ways is likely Aura Quartz, which has been artificially treated. See my post about Ruby Aura Quartz for more information.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 (high)

Can be Found: The Magaliesberg Mountain region of South Africa is the only area known to produce Spirit Quartz.

Healing Properties*: Bringing emotional healing on all levels, this crystal may be used by the passing and the bereaved alike to come to peace. It likewise heals skin disorders or blistering and etcetera as a result of an allergic reaction. The stone can also help to manage Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or abuse-related stress disorders. 

Magickal Properties: In the words of the vendor who sold me my piece, this is an incredible social stone which promotes harmony in any group, be it family, friends, or peers. In the home, it welcomes guests, newborns, adopted or foster children, and even pets. Merging step-families might want to bring in a piece of Spirit Quartz to ease any initial tensions; the crystal may also help to reconcile quarreling siblings. 
As it promotes group consciousness and cooperation, a coven or study group could find it beneficial in building team unity. Use it to heighten psychic perception and dreaming, or to facilitate out of body experiences. It is also useful for cleansing the aura or a room, dispelling negative entities or energies.
This crystal is specifically one of non-duality and balance on a spectrum. Amethyst Spirit Quartz is about beginnings and endings; through this one sees its balancing properties, as well as its capacity to seek karmic justice in traumatic situations.
Especially useful in artistic endeavors, it stimulates creativity and imagination. Regardless of how it is used, the numerous small points amplify energy and send it out in all directions.

Chakra Association: Seventh (Crown) chakra, but may be used to heal any of them

Element: Spirit/Akasha

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Any

*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!

The World of Faeries Festival 2015

The Fairy Fest was simply amazing this year! The theme was The Eleventh Hour: A Journey Through Time, so of course I wore an updated version of my steampunk fairy costume, while Destiny went with a lovely red and blue outfit of her own.

(That's me on the right.)

Destiny borrowed a pentacle necklace of mine until she could buy her own.

We heard fantastic music from award-winning Native American flutist, Randy Granger (pictured), a Japanese Taiko drumming group, the band Patchouli, the "Harp Twins" who do contemporary music played on harps, and more.

There's always so many interesting characters...

...and fantastic creatures...

...and if one looks carefully in the fairy garden...

...one might spot a little hummingbird up in a tree!

Destiny bought herself several things, including these stones:

From left to right, these are Labradorite, Rose Quartz, and Citrine.

I also bought myself many exciting things, but those will get their own post. 

The weather could not have been better (except for a thirty-second downpour Sunday afternoon), and we met up with many delightfully Pagan vendors, some of whom we already knew and some of whom were new this year. All in all, another amazing weekend!

O hí Lughnasadh

I haven't done an actual Lughnasadh ritual in at least four years because I'm always spending the weekend at Fairy Fest. This year, however, with Destiny coming over, we're planning to do something in the evening. As such, I figured I ought to get my altar set up ahead of time.

I rather like this design. I might edit it a little still before next week, but I think I've got a nice, solid foundation.

On the left, I have my chalice, gourds, (plastic) grapes, a cup and saucer for water, salt, and a pair of dried corn cobs.  I also have a "corn dolly" goddess figure (actually made out of taffeta) which I put together several years ago. 

In the center, I've my elemental candles all sitting around the direction plate I got at the auction last month. In the center is the tea light from Rebekka, as well as a tiny incense holder and my new Selenite wands. 

Over on the right side of the altar, there's a god figure to match the goddess one, as well as my wand, athame, and a feather. There are more gourds and grapes, and I filled my cauldron with some festive potpourri I found. A seasonal fairy hangs in the back, and up front sit pieces of Orange Calcite, Citrine, and a crystal which I've finally identified as Aragonite. 

All of this is sitting on an orange tablecloth with a smaller green swatch in the center. The orange is one which I've generally reserved for Samhain in the past, but I decided that I might as well use it since I likely won't even be here for Samhain, and I wanted some more color. The green is actually a piece I got in Japan during a high school calligraphy class. Hidden under my elemental items is the Japanese kanji for "festival"; it's really just as well that it's hidden, because I didn't do the neatest job of writing it. C'est la vie.

Still not entirely sure what our ritual is going to consist of - I'll continue researching that this evening - but I'm excited!

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 5th, 2014

I bought several new stones this weekend, and will naturally be posting information about them as I research it. This is the first such post.

Ametrine

Physical Characteristics: Ametrine is a translucent mixture of Amethyst and Citrine. The color gradient blends Amethyst's purple with Citrine's gold.

In Nature: Technically called Trystine or Bolivianite, the stone's coloration comes from different oxidation states of the Quartz, which is in turn caused by different temperatures being applied across the crystal's length during its formation.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 (middle-high)

Can be Found: Bolivia, Brazil, and India

Healing Properties*: This stone strengthens the nerves and promotes oxygen distribution in the body. Water that has held an Ametrine for several hours will reduce fever and the associated aches, while worn around the neck the stone reduces trembling and sweating. Generally, Ametrine combats hardening of the arteries, as well as more specific complaints like dementia, deafness, and problems with the eyes. When preparing for an artificial implant or limb, Ametrine is said to help the body accept the addition.

Magickal Properties: Ametrine has the properties of both Amethyst and Citrine, but it also possesses unique qualities of its own. In particular, it is known for blending masculine and feminine energies. The stone, as a result, can benefit anyone (societal gender roles make a habit of squashing one energy or the other), but it could perhaps be most helpful to those of a non-standard gender identity or sexual orientation. It links the higher spiritual chakras with the lower, mundane energy vortexes, enhancing mental and spiritual clarity. The powerful Citrine/Amethyst combination strengthens the will while also releasing stress. It is a particularly potent stone for battling addiction. Ametrine stimulates the intellect and banishes negativity from the aura. The stone also gives a major boost to psychic workings, whether one is doing readings, spirit communication, or astral travel. It can likewise protect against psychic attack.

Chakra Association: First (Root) and Seventh (Crown) chakras

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!

December 26th, 2013

I was bored this morning, and frequently when I am bored I play with my photomanipulation software. For lack of another idea, I decided to make a quick illustration of the chakra crystal layout I did yesterday, in case my halfhazard explanation in the previous post was somewhat ambiguous. All the images are shopped together off the internet, so don't sue me, please.

From the bottom up, the list runs as follows:

• Grounding Cord - Andalusian Cross Stone
• Base Chakra - Red Jasper
• Sacral Chakra - Carnelian
• Solar Plexus Chakra - Citrine
• Heart Chakra - Rose Quartz
• Throat Chakra - Turquoise 
• Third Eye Chakra - Lapis Lazuli
• Crown Chakra - Lepidolite
• Higher Crown Chakra - Clear Quartz

Get comfortable - you may want a mat or a blanket, the latter especially if you're likely to get cold. I always find that energy work makes me feel warm, so I didn't use one, but you may find differently. You may want to play music - my family was watching a movie, so I popped in my earbuds, but sometimes silent meditation can be even more powerful. Lay out the stones, from the bottom up. You needn't use the same ones on my list - any stone of the same color or correspondence will do the trick if it's meaningful to you. Getting the last few in place can be a little awkward if you're working by yourself since you can't move around as much.
Then relax - your eyes can be open or closed as you prefer. Breath regularly and focus on each of the chakras in turn. As you contemplate the meaning of each energy vortex, look at your life specifically, see how each chakra relates to it, and decide what changes, if any, need to be made on an energetic level to bring things into balance. If, for example, your work with the heart chakra shows you that your relationships have been lacking due to an inner lack of self-acceptance, then broaden the energy flow to the region, filling it with white light that assimilates into the chakra's pink or green glow. On the other hand, some chakras might be too open, bringing too much of an energy into your life. If this is the case, temper the flow of the energy vortex, bringing it back down to its appropriate level. Work with the stones' natural vibrations to bring the energy centers into equilibrium.
Seek any additional insight from the meditation. Then allow excess energy to drain into the ground. Visualize it returning to the earth and being recycled through the planet's endless cycles. Before you return to your daily life, you may want to do a quick aura combing with the Quartz crystal. Just run it through your aura on all sides, allowing it to fill in any holes in the energy and smooth any rough patches. It only takes a few minutes and feels great afterwards. Make sure to cleanse your crystals after working with them.

December 25th, 2013

Merry Christmas to all those of the Christian faith, most of my family included. I got a lot of wonderful presents from my parents and Santa, but there were a few in particular I wanted to share...

I received Llewellyn's 2014 Faerie calendar, with illustrations by Linda Ravenscroft, and The Crystal Bible, by Judy Hall. The former included this great picture:

The label read "Titania and Puck". After playing Puck in our school production of A Midsummer Night's Dream this year, I was especially appreciative thereof.

I spent most of my day reading my new book and marking the stones I already own with sticky notes. It gives a little bit of physiological information about the individual crystals, but most of the entries are delegated to explaining the metaphysical properties they have, and how they can be used in healing. The book also has an index with lots of great information, including zodiac associations, divinatory meanings, and more. Each stone is illustrated in full color.
Other than the obvious reason of "now I have a Pagan resource regarding minerals", I'm incredibly pleased with my gift because it enabled me to identify a very unusual stone of mine.
I was given one of these by my grandma earlier this year:

Neither of us had any idea what it was. Then, reading through the appropriately named Bible today, I learned that it is what is called a Chrysanthemum Stone. Look it up! Or don't - now that I know what it is, I can do a proper post about its properties in the near future. I also decided to try one of the crystal layouts recommended in the back of the book. It was a chakra layout, and a reasonably simple one at that.
I took a lie down on the floor - my bed is really too soft for this sort of work - but a firm mattress or mat would work just as well. The book said to lay a brown stone in front of the feet, a red one at the base of the spine, an orange stone below the navel, a yellow one on the diaphragm, a pink one on the chest, a blue one on the throat (don't move around too much or it'll slide off), and an indigo one on the forehead. Then place a violet stone above where your head is laying, and a white or clear stone above that. I chose to use Andalusite, Red Jasper, Carnelian, Citrine, Rose Quartz, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli, Lepidolite, and Clear Quartz, respectively. Then I put in my headphones and played some quiet New Age music while I meditated for about 20 minutes. It was ridiculously relaxing and insightful, and it seemed to clear up both my headache and the back pain I usually get from lying on the floor. I'm definitely going to have to get into the habit of working with my stones more frequently!
And then, finally, I figured out why I've been feeling somewhat off-balance all month. After Thanksgiving, I moved my mini shrine to make space for my Yule tree. Unfortunately, I never thought to change the orientation of the things on the shrine, so that my objects for water were pointed South instead of West, and so on. I about clapped myself on the forehead when I saw that, but it's all fixed now and the energy imbalance is corrected. What a day!