May 17th, 2017

I don't believe I ever shared a photo of it, but one of my birthday gifts this year was a piece of Polychrome Jasper from Rebekka's store carved in the shape of a heart. Now that I've had a little free time over my summer vacation, I finally got around to researching its properties.

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Polychrome Jasper 

(aka Desert Jasper)

Physical Characteristics: Polychrome Jasper is so named for the myriad colors it can contain, the list of which includes red, brown, purple, yellow, grey, and teal. These colors are the product of mineral admixtures, usually iron oxides.

In Nature: Jaspers are micro-crystalline, fine-grained, and opaque stones. They are comprised of massive (i.e. formed in a mass) formations of Chalcedony Quartz.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 (medium-high)

Can be Found: Madagascar

Healing Properties*: Use Polychrome Jasper to boost your energy; it may be helpful for managing chronic fatigue, exhaustion as a result of a mental illness, or similar conditions.

Magickal Properties: Polychrome or Desert Jasper is a figure stone, which is to say that certain specimens may appear to show images of people, animals, landscapes, or symbols, and one's associations with that image can impact the properties of the stone. The properties can also vary based on what colors are present (see below). 

Generally, Polychrome Jasper is a stone with fiery energy, associated with action, passion, and liveliness. It can be a powerful tool for transforming one's life trajectory into something more desirable; it can be used similarly for new relationships. Additionally, use Polychrome Jasper for grounding, and for finding peace and self-worth during difficult times.

Color properties:

• Red/Red-orange: Enthusiasm, physical and spiritual vitality
• Rose: New love, romance, and/or relationships
• Purple: Awe, mystery, dream interpretation, renewal
• Teal: Temperance, restoring calm, relieving stress, overcoming conflict, protection in the face of cruelty
• Yellow: Happiness, cheerfulness, contentment

Chakra Association: Root (First), Solar Plexus (Third) chakras

Element: Fire

Energy: Projective

Planetary Association: Earth, Mars

*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!

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!

Ruby

Ruby

Physical Characteristics: A pink to blood red precious gemstone which derives its color from the presence of Cr⁺³ ions. Some specimens display a star shape when cut correctly, and these are highly valued. Most natural Rubies are rutilated, and most Rubies on the market have been treated in some way, most often with heat. 

In Nature: The stone's Chromium ions absorb yellow-green light, and then re-emit it as red light. This luminescence adds luster to the gem, and led to the invention of the first successful laser in 1960. 

Chemical Composition: Al2O3:Cr

Mohs Scale Hardness: 9 (very high)

Can be Found: Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, India, Afghanistan, Australia, Japan, Scotland, Brazil, USA, Greenland, Kenya, etc.

Healing Properties*: Its healing effects are many, but the Ruby is most associated with the cardiovascular system. It may also treat sexual dysfunction, bladder problems, or conditions of the blood. Further associated with bodily warmth, it may improve circulation in the extremities and help to manage anemia.

Magickal Properties: Actually a red variety of the same mineral which comprises Sapphire, Ruby is a stone of many uses. Many sources cite it as an invigorating stone which can be used to recharge when one is feeling drained. Scott Cunningham recommends pairing a crystal with a red candle for this purpose. 
It is also well known for its protective properties. Kings and knights would use it to embellish their breastplate, while many fairy tales pass on the knowledge that a Ruby's color will pale in color when its bearer is in danger. Similarly, it can help to ward off negative emotions and to recover a more positive outlook. Touched to the corners of the home or garden, a Ruby will guard the space from harm.
Ruby is likewise a stone of wealth and prosperity. One could be used in a money spell, or placed in a piggy bank or a wallet. It also helps insure that one's income is stable, rather than constantly fluctuating. For those who collect gems, Indian lore suggests that the bearer of a Ruby can use it to draw more precious gems to themselves.
The crystal is further noted for its ability to inspire feelings of joy or bliss. Wearing a stone set in jewelry is a convenient way to experience this effect.

Chakra Association: First (Root) and Fourth (Heart) chakras

Element: Fire

Energy: Projective

Planetary Association: Mars

*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!

Tangerine Quartz

Tangerine Quartz

Physical Characteristics: Crystal specimens may range from pale to very dark orange, and appear translucent. 

In Nature: Tangerine Quartz forms in the presence of Hematite and water. The Iron in the Hematite oxidizes, covering the crystal in a thin coat of rust.

Chemical Composition: SiO2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7 (high)

Can be Found: Worldwide, though most mining occurs in Brazil

Healing Properties*: Mentally, the stone boosts self-esteem and brings a sense of empowerment. It may be helpful in recovering from shock or trauma, or can be employed as a more general pick-me-up. Like many orange crystals, it engenders feelings of happiness and positivity.

Magickal Properties: In addition to Quartz's general properties, this stone is especially notable as an emotional healer and for sparking creativity. Use Tangerine Quartz to foster relationships and to release self-deprecating or limiting patterns of thought. It may also be useful as a tool of manifestation, especially when one's desires correspond to one of the stone's other properties (e.g. manifesting a completed project, new relationship, etc.) 

Chakra Association: Second (Sacral) and Third (Solar Plexus)

Element: Fire

Energy: Projective

Planetary Association: Sun

*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 7th, 2015

My afternoon class got cancelled, so I decided to use the time to get caught up on a few things. One of those things includes finally getting around to researching the properties of Chrysanthemum Stone. I received my piece of it as a gift from my grandma several years ago, and neither of us knew what it was. Then I got Judy Hall's The Crystal Bible, and came across an entry about it. Now, an eternity later, I finally got my information on it consolidated.

Chrysanthemum Stone

Physical Characteristics: These stones are most commonly black with white inclusions, although the matrix surrounding the "chrysanthemum" may also be dark brown or red.

In Nature: Sources on both the composition and formation of Chrysanthemum Stones differ in explanation. The matrix can appear as a mineral called Xenotime, limestone, or clay, while the interior may be Zircon, Celestite, Calcite, Andalusite, or etcetera.

Chemical Composition: Various

Mohs Scale Hardness: 3 - 4.5 (low)

Can be Found: Japan, China, Canada, USA

Healing Properties*: In matters of health, use Chrysanthemum Stone to ease problems with the skeletal system, nails, and eyesight. It can also help to dispel abnormal growths. Those who struggle with depression or anxiety may find that this crystal eases some of the symptoms. 

Magickal Properties: The name comes from the Japanese 菊石, or "kiku-ishi", which literally translates as "Chrysanthemum Stone". The crystal's black and white nature lend it associations with harmony and balance. It brings joy and enthusiasm to one's life, and makes a great gift for one starting out on a new path. Heightening one's energy vibration, these stones can cause more meaningful synchronicities to occur around their bearer. As such, they can bring prosperity and general good fortune. They may also be used in the same vein to encourage manifestation. It has been said that the floral nature of the crystal inclusions can help those struggling with self-esteem issues to open up and "bloom". Use this stone for reflective meditation when one needs to open pathways to happiness and contentment. This can also have a grounding effect.  

Chakra Association: Seventh (Crown) chakra

Element: Water

Energy: Projective

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!