May 18th, 2017

Apophyllite

Physical Characteristics: Apophyllite refers to a specific group of phyllosilicates (sheet silicates formed in parallel layers). All phyllosilicates are hydrated minerals, Apophyllite being a variety which contains water in its chemical structure.

There are technically three varieties of Apophyllite, each varying slightly in chemical composition: Fluorapophyllite (white, colorless, yellow, green, or violet specimens), Hydroxyapophyllite (white or colorless specimens), and Natroapophyllite (brown, yellow, or colorless specimens). Heating the crystal causes water loss, which in turn can cause it to flake apart.

In Nature: This crystal is typically found in vesicles of Basalt or other volcanic rocks.

Chemical Composition: (K, Na)Ca4Si8O20(F, OH)•8H2O

Mohs Scale Hardness: 4.5-5 (medium)

Can be Found: India, Germany, Canada, Norway, Scotland, Ireland, Brazil, Japan, United States

Healing Properties*: Placed on the eyelids, Apophyllite is thought to reduce eye strain. It relieves anxiety and stress, and can also reduce allergy symptoms. Apophyllite is a common tool in Reiki healing.

Magickal Properties: Apophyllite is perhaps best-known for being a high-vibration crystal. The stone's energy is uplifting, and is often used for removing energy blockages and for helping its bearer grow spiritually. It opens the Third Eye, and in so doing furthers psychic development; use it to enhance clairvoyance, for dream work, for astral travel/projection, meditation, and similar exercises. The stone is ideal for scrying, in part because many specimens contain prismatic defects that help the mind relax. It also opens the Crown Chakra, making it easier to contact spiritual guides, angels, and other higher powers.

The water content of the stone improves its energy-conducting capacity, which may be further enhanced by the shape of the crystal (e.g. a pyramidal form). To cleanse and empower a room with Apophyllite, create a crystal grid by placing one stone in each corner of the room and another in the room's center.

Generally speaking, it is inadvisable to cleanse hydrated crystals with water. As heat can damage the stone, it is likewise inadvisable to cleanse Apophyllite in direct sunlight.

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

Element: Air

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!

April 23rd, 2017

Orthoceras

Physical Characteristics: Orthoceras fossils are the remains of slender, elongate shelled animals, which look similar to related nautiloid cephalopods, making identification difficult.

In Nature: With a name meaning "straight horn", Orthoceras is an extinct genus of nautiloid cephalopod, specifically of the variety native to the Baltic States and Sweden. It lived during the Paleozoic and Triassic periods, and is typically found in a limestone matrix.

Chemical Composition: CaCO3 matrix, with a fossil of varying mineral composition

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7.5-8 (high)

Can be Found: Baltic States and Sweden

Healing Properties*: Orthoceras fossils have been used to lessen the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and to heal conditions related to the spine and to aging.

Magickal Properties: Like with many fossils, Orthoceras is rooted in energies pertaining to time; it can assist in past life discovery and meditation, moving past old traumas, and in working through transition periods. It is likewise a stone of business success, promoting prosperity and financial stability. In energy work, Orthoceras can assist with the development of psychic abilities and in Reiki healing.

Chakra Association: Root (First) chakra

Element: Earth

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Earth

*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!

Shopping Haul

I did some shopping today! 

In order to celebrate my new job, and also just to relax a bit, I went out and bought some things at Earthbound that I've really been wanting.

First off, they had this amazing candelabra which I've been eyeing since last fall, and I finally just had to have it. It's completely my style, and just very bright and cheerful, so I'm glad to have it, even if it was pricey.

I got this cool candle at a discount, and it's actually a bit brighter purple than it appears in this photo, but it's a four-sided pyramid carved with an eye, and I think it'll lend a really interesting energy to any psychic work I delve into.

I got one of the best deals on these. They're 100% pure essential oil diffuser bottles, originally priced at $16, but they were on clearance for $4 a piece, and I got the second one at an additional 50% off, so I only paid $6 for the pair. The brand is rareESSENCE; on the left is the peace scent (frankincense, myrrh, palo santo), and on the right is the clarity (eucalyptus, sage). 

I also walked over to Goodwill and picked up a few things. This is Zen: An Ancient Path to Enlightenment for Modern Times, by Peter Oldmeadow. It looked interesting, and it was only $1.

This book, also, was $1. It is Medicine Woman, by Lynn V. Andrews, and is an autobiography. Again, it sounded interesting.

And then last, but by no means least, I picked up a frame for a very cool piece. This poem was written by Travis, of the Pagan Scholar YouTube channel. I won it in his giveaway, and wanted to be able to display it appropriately. It's a piece of blackout poetry, and basically turns an old Bible page into a unique, Pagan-ish poem!

September 5th, 2015

Title: Astral Travel for Beginners: Transcend Time and Space with Out-of-Body Experiences

Author: Richard Webster
©1998

I picked this book up at a thrift store over the summer and read part of it, but only just got around to finishing it this afternoon. Astral Travel for Beginners covers a wide range of subjects, and provides both a comprehensive guide to basic astral travel and also insights into hypnosis, remote viewing, and other psychic phenomenon.

The book is divided into fifteen chapters, the topics of which include:

• Astral travel requirements
• Involuntary astral travel
• The astral world
• Your first astral travel
• Advanced astral travel

and so on. Drawing on a wide variety of sources, Webster cites recorded examples of astral travel occurring throughout history and around the world. He defines terms like the "astral plane", "silver cord", and etcetera, He also discusses concepts of bi-location, astral doubles, and doppelgangers. 

Webster goes on to describe relaxation techniques to incite one's first astral travel experience. He does this in stages, beginning with the very basic "mind travel" and moving on to ways by which to completely separate the consciousness from the body. For more practiced astral travelers, Webster suggests how to visit other countries, times, and even planets. He further provides additional methods for achieving astral travel, should one be inclined to experiment, or if more "standard" techniques are unhelpful. 

For those interested in astral traveling while sleeping, the book contains a script one could record and play back before going to bed. There are also scripts for people who would like to work astral travels in a group, or as a couple. The book concludes with a discussion of how Numerology can enhance astral travel, along with a few of the author's personal experiencing teaching workshops and assisting clients.

On the whole, I quite enjoyed this book, finding it well-researched and informative. I also feel confident that given the time to practice, I could find the methods discussed very useful for achieving voluntary astral travel. Granted, the book shows its age in certain ways (hardly anyone uses cassettes anymore, for one thing), but the advice Webster provides definitely continues to hold up.

To anyone looking to start astral travelling, or hoping to expand their knowledge on the subject, I would definitely recommend Richard Webster's Astral Travel for Beginners.

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!

July 31st, 2015

I'm so excited - this weekend is Fairy Fest! And, as if that weren't enough, Destiny is coming over tonight to stay the weekend, and it's a Blue Moon Esbat! So much going on; I love it. I've gotten to start some crystal research, too, which is good since I'm sure I'll get lots more little beauties this weekend.

Blue Calcite

Physical Characteristics: Generally opaque and with a texture describable as "soapy" or "waxy", Calcite is white or clear in its pure form, while the presence of other minerals can turn it grey, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, and even black.

In Nature: Calcite is a carbonate mineral, and is common in sedimentary rocks like Limestone. It is often the primary constituent of the shells of marine organisms (e.g. plankton and bivalves) and the hard parts of red algae and sponges.

Chemical Composition: CaCO3

Mohs Scale Hardness: 3 (low)

Can be Found: Worldwide, including Mexico, Africa, and North America

Healing Properties*: This stone helps one get the rest one needs, especially when recuperating from a period of illness. It is a good choice for long distance healing work. Use it to strengthen the bones and joints, or to heal complaints of the throat and head. Paired with a blue or purple candle, its healing properties are especially strong.

Magickal Properties: Blue Calcite soothes anxiety and calms its bearer. It is a great facilitator of communication, particularly when people hold opposing points of view. It encourages people to speak honestly and to reconcile their differences. 

It is also a powerful psychic stone which can be used to enhance astral travel, channeling, and dream recall. Activating intuition, it can likewise improve one's experiences with meditation. The stone draws upon both its psychic and communicative properties by strengthening telepathic and thought-transference skills. 

Additionally, it can be used as a purifier, clearing the energy of a person, room, etcetera.

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

July 2nd, 2015

It's been a busy week, so I'm taking the day off everything to recharge my batteries. This morning, I got the crystals I found last week settled and put two of them out in my fairy garden as offerings.

I also noticed that we have a lot of yarrow growing alongside our patio, so I clipped a bunch to dry and store, before someone mows the lawn and shreds it all. 

It looks a little wilted now because it's only just started to dry, but I've hung it upside down in front of my window to speed the process. When it's finished, I have a jar to store them in.

Yarrow is a useful herb for many reasons, and it can be found commonly across much of the planet's northern hemisphere. It is indeed so common that it is considered a weed in many places. 

When fresh, it has clotting and anti-bacterial properties. If you scrape yourself gardening, pressing a fresh yarrow leaf to the wound will quickly help it stop bleeding. It has the same effect on nosebleeds. I have used it to this end myself, with considerable success. Its genus name, Achillea, comes of course from the Greek Achilles, the hero who carried the plant into battle to treat the wounds of his soldiers. The flowers' essential oil is employed as an anti-inflammatory agent.

If you are working a healing spell, yarrow is an obvious choice. It could also be sympathetically identified with binding spells, as it "binds" skin together.

In the I Ching, a divination system originating in China, dried yarrow stalks were tossed as a randomizing agent. As such, the plant also has associations with psychism and traditional divinitory practices. 

Yarrow leaves are edible*, albeit somewhat bitter, and may help to reduce fever, to lower blood pressure, or to lessen menstrual symptoms. 

*I am not an herbalist, and this information comes from Wikipedia. Be certain when eating any wild plant that you know what it is, if you have any chance of being allergic to it, and what the anticipated effects are. Also be aware that many herbs are not safe for pregnant individuals to ingest. 

For the record: water hemlock looks similar to yarrow, and all parts of this plant are poisonous. Be safe when collecting.

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.

September 14th, 2014

Tektite

Physical Characteristics: These gravel-sized stones occur in shades of black, green, brown, and grey, and are generally opaque. They are essentially pure glass, because they are created so quickly that even microcrystals do not have time to form within the structure. Also, they contain almost no water, unlike other natural glasses, such as Obsidian. Tektites are found in huge numbers spread across meteoric "strewnfields" - one such field stretches halfway across the United States!

In Nature: Tektites are often confused with meteorites, but please note that there is a distinction. Tektites are made wholly from terrestrial matter, forming when an extraterrestrial object hits the ground and melts or vaporizes earthly debris. To translate that into English: when a meteorite hits the earth, the impact melts the surrounding rock, and it is this which solidifies as Tektites, not the meteor itself. 

Chemical Composition: SiO2, nominally, but the composition is largely determined by the location of the impact crater.

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

Can be Found: Australia, Czech Republic, Germany, Ghana, USA, China, Belize

Healing Properties*: Use Tektites to speed recovery from injury and illness. The stone may also help those with depression lift their spirits. Tektites improves blood circulation and capillary health.

Magickal Properties: Tektites are a stone of psychism, especially telepathy. The longer they stay in one's energy field, the stronger the effects become. They raise one's personal vibratory energy and strengthen the aura, while additionally allowing you to expand your consciousness during meditation. Tektites ward off negative entities - keep one in your pillowcase and it may also encourage lucid dreaming and astral travel. When working a manifestation spell, include a Tektite to encourage synchronicities (i.e. beneficial "coincidences"). The stone clears blockages in the lower chakras and links them energetically with the higher ones. The stone's connection to the extraterrestrial enhances communication with other worlds and allows access to higher knowledge. Tektite helps one release undesirable experiences, retaining lessons learned, but also allowing one to move on. Traditionally, the stone encourages fertility, which may also be taken to mean creativity. It balances male and female energies in the body and is considered a stone of good fortune in numerous cultures. 

Chakra Association: First (Root) through Third (Solar Plexus)

Element: Fire

Energy: Projective

Planetary Association: Tektites do not have a planetary association that I could find. Given the nature of their formation, it makes most sense to associate them with meteors and asteroids. 

*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 10th, 2014

Aquamarine

Physical Characteristics: This crystal is a blue or turquoise-colored variety of Beryl. When uncut, the rough stone is typically characterized by fine ribbing scored along its length.

In Nature: The stone's coloration comes from Fe+2 ions; when the ions present are Fe+3, the stone turns yellow (Aquamarine Chrysolite), while the presence of both Fe+2 and Fe+3 ions produce a dark blue color which fades to white if exposed to direct sun.

Chemical Composition: Be3Al2(SiO3)6

Mohs Scale Hardness: 7.5 - 8 (middle-high - high)

Can be Found: USA, Brazil, Colombia, Zambia, Madagascar, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya

Healing Properties*: The crystal reduces dependency on drugs and strengthens the kidneys, liver, and other purifying organs. Aquamarine is also noted as being a powerful remedy for poor vision. It is a stone of the Throat Chakra, which makes it ideal for healing glandular problems in the neck, tonsillitis, and even the standard sore throat. 

Magickal Properties: Aquamarine is considered indicative of both its bearer's feelings and the weather. If one is calm and relaxed, the stone appears bright blue, while negativity or depression turns its translucence turbid. Likewise, a stretch of bad weather is said to turn the stone dull green. For a stone whose name means "Water of the Sea", it should be immediately apparent that many of the stone's properties are water-centered. Since ancient times, it has been the talisman of seafarers - today, a soldier in the Navy might benefit from an empowered Aquamarine as readily as a fisherman or water sportsman. It wards off storms over water and grants safe passage on all liquid bodies. It is also a folk remedy for seasickness. Aquamarine is a stone of truth, illuminating the causes of unpleasant situations so that one can progress, and its energy is compassionate, encouraging the judgmental to be more tolerant. It accelerates intellectual reasoning, and enables flexibility and moderation. The stone encourages one to be prepared while easing the burden of responsibility. Aquamarine is a stone of peace, and can reconcile quarreling lovers. It is practically an essential crystal for Sea Witches, and for those wishing to expand their psychic horizons, Aquamarine may also be a good choice. Allowing a crystal to soak in a bowl of water under the moonlight for three hours creates a gentle cleansing elixir.

Chakra Association: Fifth (Throat) chakra

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Moon, 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, 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!

July 12th, 2014

Desert Rose

Physical Characteristics: These rose-like crystal formations have "petals" of crystal flattened along the "C Crystallographic" axis, fanning open in radiating clusters. Ambient sand is incorporated into the crystal, which affects the overall color.

In Nature: Desert Rose is formed of Gypsum, Barite, or Selenite. These clusters form in arid, sandy regions such as shallow salt basins where evaporation occurs. Celestine and other evaporites may also form Desert Rose.

(Some websites have tried to tell me that this is a stone formed at lightning strikes or by some other equally improbable means. Sorry, but I'm trusting Wikipedia on this one.)

Chemical Composition: CaSO4・H2O

 

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: Desert Rose already contains water. DO NOT cleanse it in liquid, as it will dissolve. Some websites talk about making "Desert Rose Water", but I strongly advise against it.

 
Mohs Scale Hardness: 2 - 3.5 (low)

Can be Found: Tunisia, Algeria, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the USA (Barite Desert Rose is the state mineral of Oklahoma)

Healing Properties*: Use Desert Rose to shield against X-rays, radioactivity, and UV rays. Further applied, this stone will treat sunburn and similar skin conditions, or ease geopathic stress caused by nearby power lines or computers. It may treat acne or eczema.

 
Magickal Properties: There is a lot of BS on the internet about this crystal, and very little that is actually useful. For example, a couple of websites recommend it for warding off "redundancy". What? How is that useful to anybody? The irony of this particular "property" being listed in multiple places is not lost on me. Even my crystal books are markedly unhelpful. However, where minerals are concerned, let it not be said that I have no enthusiasm for research. 

I dug around a bit, and found some information that actually looked credible. Right off the bat, if you have a Selenite Desert Rose, all the properties of Selenite apply. The same goes for stones formed out of Gypsum or Barite. Moreover, Desert Rose clarifies thinking and calms the mind, making it ideal for use in meditation. It is a stabilizing stone, and is considered a helpmate in business transactions because it removes obstacles from one's path and assists in financial growth. Native Americans believed that spirits of the deceased carved these "roses", and so they are ideal for psychic magicks, communing with the Otherworld, and remembering one's ancestors. The stone has generally protective qualities, and will link the Sixth and Seventh chakras to initiate psychic experiences tempered by sensory experience. Meditating on Desert Rose may make multi-layered situations plainer to understand, and has a marked effect on one's dream state. If lucid dreaming, astral travel, or astral projection is desired, working with Desert Rose may ease the process.

Chakra Association: Sixth (Third Eye) chakra

Element: Air (This is my own association, owing to the stone's airy texture coupled with it's associations with the mind and receiving information. Those few sources that even list an elemental correspondence put it down as Fire, which to me doesn't make a lot of sense.)

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Mercury (Also my own association, for most of the same reasons as above.)

*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!

August 11th, 2013

Lapis Lazuli

Physical Characteristics: Lapis Lazuli is a stone containing Lazurite, Calcite, Sodalite, and Pyrite.

In Nature: This conglomeration forms when weathered rock undergoes a chemical transformation to become Lazurite, an essential component of Lapis Lazuli. The Lazurite must then bond with Calcite and Sodalite to become the final stone. The presence of Pyrite is not required, but makes a beautiful and unique element.

Chemical Composition: (Na, Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(S, SO4, Cl)1-2

Mohs Scale Hardness: 5.5 (middle)

Can be Found: Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, Siberia, Angola, Argentina, Burma, Pakistan, Canada, India, the United States

Healing Properties*: This stone balances the function of the thyroid gland while strengthening the neck and vocal cords. Use it to soothe sore throats and inflammation of the neck and head.

Magickal Properties: Lapis Lazuli enhances one's awareness, insight, and intellect. It imparts ancient wisdom to its bearer, bringing with it peacefulness, self-acceptance, and objectivity. Lapis expands one's tendency toward leadership while lending aid in legal matters. The stone was carried by Egyptian judges and was dedicated to Ma'at, Goddess of Truth. Use during a court case when you need the truth to come out. Lapis Lazuli shields its bearer from psychic attack, relieves insomnia, and releases anxiety. As an elixir, the stone aligns the energy bodies. Lapis Lazuli has a very high vibration - it is a stone of Deity, and will encourage its bearer to raise his/her own vibratory level to match it. Finally, Lapis Lazuli is a draw for both love and fidelity.

Chakra Association: Fifth (Throat) chakra

Element: Water, Air

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Venus, Jupiter

*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 10th, 2013

Apache Tears

Physical Characteristics: These unique stones are natural spheres of Obsidian that are translucent when held up to the light.

In Nature: From a scientific perspective, Apache Tears form when lava cools in small droplets before hitting the ground. These deposits are usually found in matrices of Perlite. According to legend, however, the stones originated when fewer than 100 Apache Native Americans were cornered by army cavalry on an Arizona cliff. The Natives leaped off the cliff face rather than be captured, and the mourning tears of their families turned into Apache Tear stones.

Chemical Composition: SiO2, with various impurities

Mohs Scale Hardness: 5 - 5.5 (middle)

Can be Found: Mexico and the United States

Healing Properties*: The stone relieves muscle tremors, and can be used to expel bodily toxins. It may help defeat addiction and personality disorders, especially OCD.

Magickal Properties: According to folklore, any who carry an Apache Tear, especially if received as a gift, need never cry of grief, for the Apache have shed enough tears for all people. The stones allow for the release of grief and the healing of emotional and physical problems created by grief improperly expressed. This can be a very difficult process, so if possible, work with an experienced crystal healer or a close, sympathetic friend. Apache Tears give their bearers the strength for close emotional self-examination without becoming overwhelmed by feelings. People may develop a close magickal bond with the stone as it guides them through difficult times. It enhances meditation, spirit journeying, and prophetic dreaming; regular meditation with an Apache Tear develops a sense of inner peace and acceptance. Work the meditations outside to allow the stone to ground excess energy. The crystal balances the intellect, keeping one level-headed. use Apache Tears to to protect against subconscious doubts that manifest as self-defeating behavior. It doesn't sugar-coat things - if you work with Apache Tear for the purpose of self-help or improvement, it will tell you your strengths and weaknesses exactly as they are. This stone is an excellent ward of negativity, totally banishing it from its bearer's presence. It may also be helpful for empaths and psychics who are too sensitive to others' energy.

Chakra Association: First (Root) chakra

Element: Earth and Fire

Energy: Projective

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!

August 8th, 2013

Lepidolite

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

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

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

Mohs Scale Hardness: 2.5 - 4 (low)

Can be Found: The United States and Brazil

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

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

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

Element: Water

Energy: Receptive

Planetary Association: Jupiter and Neptune

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