A GUIDE TO THE GEMSTONES USED IN TOUCH JEWELLERY
Throughout the ages, gemstones have been seen as representative of wealth and power. They are beautiful, rare, and durable. Gems may be faceted and polished to enhance their beauty.
There are numerous myths and legends associated with gems. Some tell of cursed stones, others of stones with special powers of healing, or that give good luck to the wearer. Crystal healers believe that each gem has the power to influence the health and well-being of a special part of the body.
The use of turquoise, shell, jet and coral as personal adornment dates from prehistoric times, and silver has been used by the Navajo and Zuni for many years.
Each sign of the Zodiac has a number of gemstones associated with them and these have been incorporated in the gemstone descriptions.
AMETHYST— AQUAMARINE — CITRENE — GARNET — IOLITE
LABRADORITE — LAPIS LAZULI — MALACHITE — MOONSTONE
ONYX — OPAL — PERIDOT — QUARTZ — TOPAZ — TURQUOISE
AMETHYST
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that has naturally become violet or purple due to the presence of Manganese. When heated, Amethyst generally becomes yellow, and this can be known as "treated Citrene". Exposure to sunlight can make Amethyst paler.
Much of the world's Amethyst comes from Brazil , Russia and India .
Historically associated with Bacchus, the name Amethyst actually means "not to intoxicate", expressing the old belief that it protects its owner from strong drink. It was held that wine drunk out of a cup of Amethyst would have little effect!
On an emotional level Amethyst was traditionally worn to quieten the mind (can be helpful to psychics). It aids meditation and calms for sleep with inspired dreams. It is said to reduce anger, impatience and nightmares.
On a physical level it is said to be effective for headaches, eyes, scalp, hair and aids blood sugar balance. Kept in pets water it can reduce flees!
Amethyst is the birthstone for Aquarius, Pisces, Scorpio and Aries. It works on the sixth and seventh Chakras (third eye/brow and crown).
AQUAMARINE
Aquamarine is usually a delicate blue or greenish blue, suggestive of the tint of seawater, hence the name. It is a transparent variety of Beryl, which is in the same mineral group as Emerald.
Aquamarine is largely from Eastern Europe and India .
Historically worn by Mariners as an amulet and thought to be formed from Mermaid’s tears.
On an emotional level it is a mental and emotional balancer. It aids elimination of fears, restlessness, phobias and aids introspection. It is said to be an aid to those experiencing grief.
On a physical level it aids liver disease, baldness, the heart and immune system, and has a cleansing and detoxifying effect. Reduces fluid retention, calms coughs and colds. It is a physical and nervous system balancer. Helpful with breathing allergies and travel related ailments and phobias.
Aquamarine is the birthstone for Libra and Aquarius. It works on the fifth Chakra (throat).
CITRENE
Citrene is the yellow variety of Quartz, the yellow colouration being due to the presence of iron. The name is derived from the word "citrus".
Much Citrene is created artificially by heating the more common Amethyst, which then turns yellow. All of our Citrene is natural yellow, and has not been heat treated. Exposure to sunlight can cause this crystal to change colour.
On an emotional level this quartz mineral is a very positive and uplifting crystal, it increases awareness and control of emotions, enhances healing energy and diminishes self-destructive tendencies. It aids memory, confidence, optimism and willpower. It can reduce anxiety, fears and depression.
On a physical level Citrene aids digestion and blood circulation, stomach tension, food disorders, allergies and is excellent for detoxifying. It is also said to be helpful for spinal alignment.
It is a bedside stone for the first half of Capricorn. It works on the first and third Chakras (base and solar plexus).
GARNET
Historically known as “carbuncle”, Garnet is the name given to a family of minerals, such as Grossular and Hessonite. Two of the most popular stones are Pyrope and Almandine, which are both a beautiful deep red colour. Pyrope also occurs in pink, when it is known as Rhodolite. Garnets are found in most of the colours of the spectrum, from red to green, and also in violet, brown, black and colourless.
Garnet crystals' likeness to pomegranate seeds has lent the name, the Latin word for pomegranate being "grantum".
Our garnets all come from India .
The use of Garnets as gems began with the ancient Egyptians, who believed they were able to ward off accidents during travel. Legend has it that Noah suspended Garnet in the Ark in order to disperse light.
On an emotional level Red Garnet is said to cure melancholy and helps inspire love and passion. It warms the heart and energises. It has a creative impact when worn during meditation and has a grounding effect. All Garnet has been traditionally used to stimulate and energise. It has been used as an aid to passion and confidence. Though it does have a Yang element and can cause stubbornness and should be avoided if prone to excess anger, impatience.
On a physical level Red Garnet can aid those with anaemia and thyroid problems. It is said to be good for arthritis and paralysis. Yellow – green garnet has cleansing qualities and sooths digestive areas. Garnet has been used as an aid to hormone balance, antibodies, fertility, stamina, passion and confidence. It is good for low blood pressure but the Yang element of this stone does suggest that it should be avoided by those with high blood pressure.
Garnet is the birthstone for Capricorn and Scorpio. Red Garnet is a precious crystal for the second half of Virgo and Yellow a Talisman for second half of Gemini. Red Garnet works on the first and second Chakras (base and Navel), Yellow on the third Chakra (solar plexus).
IOLITE
One of the newer crystals, this translucent blue, violet or brown stone, containing varied mixtures of magnesium, aluminium, iron and manganese is very similar to Blue Sapphire when it is cut, hence its nickname "Water Sapphire". The stone has a rich violet-blue tinge when viewed from some angles, yet a much paler, almost grey colour when viewed from others. This effect is known as "pleochroism".
Iolite is found as water-worn pebbles in some rivers in India and Burma .
On an emotional level it is an opener of the head region from the throat to the two charkas above the crown. It is a discernment stone, drawing on the subconscious, to help perceive truth.
On a physical level Iolite has detoxifying qualities (particularly alcohol). As with Amethyst it is said to be and aid to sobriety.
Iolite is a previous crystal for the second half of Virgo. It works on the sixth Chakra (third eye/brow).
LABRADORITE
This is an iridescent “feldspar” (Swedish for field rock) which is almost is almost identical to Spectralite and Sunstone. Existing in a whole range of colours, from reds to yellows and clear, it is the variety with a beautiful "play of colours" on its surface that has become popular for use in jewellery. Cleansing using products containing salt should be avoided as this stone is fragile.
Labradorite is principally mined in Labrador , in Canada , hence the name.
On an emotional level this stone can help attain understanding necessary to actualise the individual’s destiny. It protects the aura and helps inner strength. It aids our ability to relate to others and sleeplessness.
On a physical level night vision is enhanced Labrodite. Labrodite sensitises touch (and the ability to see auras, which is an electrosensitive skill). It is an excellent stone for the blind.
It is a talisman for the firs half of Virgo. It works on the third, fifth and sixth Chakras (solar plexus, throat and third eye/brow).
LAPIS LAZULI
Lapis has a beautiful intense blue colour, with golden specks of Pyrite (Fools Gold) embedded within it, which has led to it being fancifully compared with the stars in the deep blue firmament. The minor patches of white are streaks of calcite.
Much Lapis is sourced from Afghanistan , but it is also found in Argentina and Chile .
Since ancient times, it has been used for the inlaid work of mosaics, and has been carefully carved into ornaments. Lapis is associated with many famous pieces, most notably the mask of Tutankhamun. It has been worn in the belief that it will protect the wearer from evil. King Solomon wore it in his breastplate as an amulet for protection.
On an emotional level this ancient stone provides mental calming and strength of will. It connects the heart and mind and increases psychic ability, allows for spiritual growth, assists with the growth of interpersonal relationships and encourages closeness between the sexes. Lapis was used extensively in ancient Egypt and all over the Middle East . In meditation Lapis opens the brow Chakra for higher guidance, connection between the physical and celestial planes, intuition, connection to higher self, overview and decisions for the good of all. It organises and quiets the mind, opens the throat Chakra for self-expression, writing, creativity and dream insight. Excellent for understanding the mind and expanding ones viewpoint. Lapis also eases anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, autism and shyness.
On a physical level it is good for the nervous system, MS, speech, hearing, inflammation, pain – headaches in particular – and has traditionally been associated with providing protection for the wearer.
Lapis is one of the birthstones for Taurus and Virgo and It is a Talisman for second half of Capricorn. It works on the fifth and sixth Chakras (throat and third eye/brow).
MALACHITE
Sometimes called Satin Ore and closely associated with Azurite (a sky-blue mineral), Malachite is a beautiful stone whose concentric rings of varying bright greens are due to its copper content. Indeed, it is often found inter-grown with Azurite, usually in copper-mining areas. This crystal should be cleanses frequently – daily if possible.
Malachite is usually found in Russia , Zaire and Australia .
Both the Greeks and Romans wore amulets of Malachite to ward off evil spirits, and to guard against illness.
On an emotional level this powerful stone can be placed direaffected area to absofb illness energies whether they are physical or emotional, though it is essential to cleanse after use as the stone will be buszzing with the negative energy. It movesenergy from the higher planes and grounds it into the green earth, encourages tolerance, flexibility, stability and alleviates impatience. When used in meditation it brings out the true reality of the subject and can be helpful in discovering knowledge on other gemstones and ones self.
This stone possesses a steady pulsing electromagnetic energy due to the high copper content and is a great stone for bringing harmony into ones life. Placed on the brow it stimulates physical and psychic vision as well as concentration. On the heart and Solar Plexus (just above the navel) it helps the stomach, liver, lungs, immune system, MS, circulation, protects against radiation and brings relief and healing to those with kidney stones. A good stone for air travel.
This stone works wonderfully well in tandem and is commonly found with azurite and chrysocolla. Twinned with these stones it aids healing, releasing and drawing out pain, inflammation, depression and anger. It is also renowned for healing blocks. Protection is provided by powerfully cleaning the auric field and rapidly absorbing undesirable energies of the modern world e.g. from TV and computers.
Malachite is one of the birthstones for Taurus. It is a Talisman for the first half of Taurus (twinned with Azurite). It works on the third and fourth Chakras (solar plexus and heart).
MOONSTONE
A translucent “feldspar” (Swedish for field rock) with white, blueish, pink or yellow sheen, Moonstone is not unlike the light of the moon, after which it is named.
Moonstone is largely from Burma , Sri Lanka and India ,
Rainbow Moonstone is similar to Moonstone, but with an iridescent sheen not unlike that of Labradorite, which is in the same mineral group.
On an emotional level Moonstone is a balancer of the emotions and can be used to link to higher consciousness with protection. Particularly good for providing feminine energy. It can provide synchrony with moon-based cycles (menstrual and biorhythm). It provides self-confidence, warmth, nurturing, tolerance and surrender. It soothes stress and anxiety. It can increase sensitivity and intuition and aids its wearer to “go with the flow” of life.
Moon worshipers throughout the ages have used Moonstone in their jewellery.
On a physical level it is said to help during childbirth and with women’s hormones and menstrual imbalance.
Moonstone is the birthstone for Cancer and Pisces and beneficial to all water signs. White Moonstone is a balancer of yin and yang. It works on the second and sixth Chakras (Navel and third eye/brow).
ONYX
Onyx and Sardonyx are the names given to different colours of Chalcedony, a type of Quartz. Onyx is similar to Agate, only with straighter bands, alternating black and white. Sardonyx has bands alternating brown or red with white. The distinctive bands are formed by deposits of silica in the bubbles in lava flows.
On an emotional level this quartz is often worn by people who are unaware of its value. It is a very balancing and grounding stone. Best for meditation and dream emphasis, it should be used in conjunction with Apache Tears for protection. It energises the system and soothes jangled nerves, bringing security, improves self-control and helps us to be emotionally centred. It helps purge grief and can assist us in making good decisions.
Black Onyx affects the root Chakra, helps us change our bad habits and is useful for grounding.
Green Onyx works with the heart Chakra and all matters to do with the heart.
Yellow Onyx acts on the third Chakra aiding seriousness and logic.
Blue Onyx works with the fifth Chakra, the throat and all matters to do with communication on all levels.
Mexican Onyx is a great aid to better sleep.
The more translucent the stone the more effective it is.
On a physical level it is sometimes used as a fever reducer.
Onyx is one of the birthstones for Virgo. It is also a Talisman for the first half of Aquarius.
OPAL
Opal is a type of amorphous silica. It is a solidified jelly, and so has no crystal structure, but contains up to ten per cent of water. The iridescent colours for which Opal is prized are due to the play of light on hairline cracks within the mineral. Opal is absorbent and water taken in through the cracks enhances the iridescence, whilst grease dulls it.
Occurring in India , Sri Lanka and New Zealand , the best gem Opals are found in cracks in an Australian sandstone.
On an emotional level Opal is a stone of harmony which acts as a tonic and regenerator, promoting truthfulness and spontaneity in actions. It is widely believed to emphasise the prevalent tendency of a person positive or negative. Opal clarifies by amplifying and mirroring feelings, buried emotions and desires. It absorbs and stores emotions and thoughts, helps break down blocks, eases inhibitions and allows more spontaneity in the user. It is good for visualisation, imagination, dreams and healing. It helps bring greater intuition and is a purifier of the emotions. It can however cancel out the effects of other gems it is with.
White opal balances right and left brain.
Fire Opals can often stimulate passion and ill temper.
Black Opal helps us to see our highest inner potential and is useful for strengthening bones.
Black Opal is the precious gem of first half of Virgo. Opal works on the second Chakra (navel).
PERIDOT
Ranging from pale green to bottle green, Peridot's colour is due to the presence of iron. The mineral itself is called Olivine, because of its similarity in colour to olives, but when stones are found of gem quality they are called Peridots.
On an emotional level Peridot strengthens “breath of life”, prosperity, growth and openness. It can help us understand relationships and recognise negative patterns in our lives and surroundings. It also greatly helps ease depression, anger, fear, jealousy and anxiety.
On a physical level Peridot brings the energies of the aura into the physical body and helps regenerate many organs including liver, pancreas, heart and thyroid. It aids the lymph glands and breasts. Yellow Peridot is particularly good for the liver and stomach. In ancient times it was used by Egyptians, Aztecs and Incas to gently cleanse and heal the physical heart Chakra.
Peridot is one of the birthstones for Leo. It works on the third and fourth Chakras (solar plexus and heart).
QUARTZ
The name Quartz comes from the Greek for ice - "crystallos", as they believed that Quartz crystals were formed by the Gods making ice in the Alps .
One of the commonest minerals, Quartz comes in a variety of colours. Pure Quartz is colourless (known as Rock Crystal), but a whole range of different Quartzes are produced by impurities.
Some examples are:
Amethyst
Purple from manganese
Citrene
Yellow from iron
Aventurine
Green or blue from fuchite or brown pyrite
Milky Quartz
Opaque from many bubbles of air or water
Smokey Quartz
Grey or brown from natural radiation
Rose Quartz
Pink from titanium
Quartz can also have impurities of whole crystals of other minerals, such as Rutile. This is known as Rutilated Quartz, or Venus-hair stone. Rutile is black, gold, or a brilliant red, hence the name, which means "golden-red" in Latin. Rutilated Quartz has needle-like Rutile crystals within it.
Since the Middle Ages, Quartz has been used to make crystal balls to see into the future. Prized for their beauty and clarity, Quartz crystals are often chosen for use in crystal healing.
On an emotional level Quartz is probably the most versatile healing stone available. It is simple to cleanse, stores information and energy well, amplifies draws and sends energy. The powerful clear stones pen the brown and crown Chakras for meditation and guidance. Twinned with Chlorite it is powerful for sending and advanced specialised uses.
On a physical level it stimulates natural crystals in the body’s tissues and fluids to resonate at a new healing frequency. Being Clear white in colour it contains all the colours of the rainbow within its structure, making it easy to work with all of the Chakras.
Rock Crystal is the birthstone for Aquarius, Aries, Taurus and Scorpio.
Capricorn's birthstones are Citrene, Smokey Quartz and Amethyst.
ROSE QUARTZ
The pink or peachy colour of Rose Quartz is thought to be due to tiny amounts of titanium within the crystal. It is the similarity in colour to the delicate shades of roses that has lent the name Rose Quartz. This crystal should be cleansed often especially if it fades.
On an emotional level this is the Quartz of the heart. This is the stone of love, beauty, peace, forgiveness and self-love. It aids compassion and forgiveness and cools hot tempers. It eases loss, stress, hurt, fear, low self-esteem, low confidence, resentment and anger. It aids alignment mental and emotionally. It is good for children and those who needed love when children. Slowly eases childhood trauma arising from neglect or lack of love.
On a physical level it is good for circulation and the heart.
In ancient Rome , carved Rose Quartz was popular for use as seals.
Rose Quartz is the birthstone for Cancer, Pisces and Taurus. It works on the fourth Chakra (heart).
Topaz is a crystal that comes in a variety of colours red, yellow, blue and orange.
Blue Topaz is a wonderful stone for those of a creative nature, especially writers, it helps users focus on their path in lift and aids alignment on one’s higher self.
The Pink and Champagne colour Topaz works with the heart for love and spiritual compassion.
On an emotional level Topaz it radiates warmth and brings protection. Topaz eases mood swings, insomnia, worries fears, aids confidence, exhaustion, nervous system stress and stomach anxiety. A great stone for water signs, teachers, those experiencing stress at work.
On a physical level it is good for those with arthritis, osteoporosis and diabetes. It aids the liver and pancreas detoxification, blood sugar balance, strengthens tissue and back bone both physically and emotionally.
It is a birthstone for Scorpio. It is a precious crystal for the first half of Capricorn. It works on the third, fourth and fifth Chakras (solar plexus, heart and throat).
TURQUOISE
The colours that Turquoise is found in pass through every transition from sky-blue to green, the shade varying due to the amounts of iron and copper within it. Turquoise's colour may fade with age, but it can be impregnated with wax to maintain its original shade.
Turquoise was originally introduced to Europe through Turkey , hence the name which literally means "Turkish".
Much Turquoise (and the most prized) comes from Iran .
Turquoise has been prized for its intense colour for many thousands of years, and was one of the first gemstones to be mined. It has been found inlaid in bracelets and neckwear from old Egyptian tombs.
Turquoise is the sacred stone of the Native American Indians and imparts long life by protecting us from our environment.
On an emotional level it helps break down creativity block and eases depression. It is an excellent overall healer and a very good conductor due to its high copper content. It has soothing and cooling properties. It aids communication, serenity and spiritual bonding. It helps us open our heart to give and receive. On the brow it provides a psychic connection to the great spirit. It strengthens and aligns meridians, Chakras and energy fields. An absorber of negativity and protector from the evil eye. It brings wisdom and allays fears.
On a physical level like Amethyst, it protects and detoxes from alcohol and other toxins. It also protects from sun radiation. It is helpful with anorexia, headache, the throat, lungs, asthma, infections, teeth, hearing and high blood pressure.
Turquoise performs best twinned with Silver.
Turquoise is one of the birthstones for Capricorn. It works on the fourth, fifth and sixth Chakras (heart, throat and third eye/brow).