Pyrite
A common mineral consisting of iron disulphide found in blocks, gravel and crystals, pyrite is a pale brass-yellow or golden-yellow colour with a metallic lustre. The paler coloured variety found in unusually shaped crystals is known as Marcasite. Named in 1588. Plates of polished pyrite have been found in old Inca caves, and although assumed by some to be mirrored, these plates may have been used for their mystical powers. Because of its golden sparkle, pyrite was sometimes mistaken for gold by inexperienced prospectors causing it to become known as “fool’s gold” around 1872. Pyrite is thought to be a very protective stone, helping to ward off negative vibrations on the physical and emotional levels. Simply having a piece of pyrite in one’s possession can shield one from physical danger. thought to symbolize the warmth and lasting presence of the sun, this stone encourages the recall of warm and happy memories of love and friendship. Pyrite is believed to promote the discovery of hidden talents and to be a useful stone for those who are indecisive. The stone has been helpful in treating bronchitis, disorders of the lungs, tonsillitis influenza as well as in reducing fevers and inflammation.
Prehnite
The classical colour is light apple green (from South Africa) but the material which is attractive yellow to yellow-green (from Australia) and yellow-green with dark Epidot needles (from central Africa), is now also on the market. Named after Governor Prehn who discovered it in South Africa in the 19th century, this material usually crystallizes in a nodular form on other materials such as chalcedony, basalt or limestone. A rarer crystallized form is in bright green plates. A good Feng Shui stone for bringing order to a cluttered household, encouraging the letting go of possessions. It enhances the visualization process and encourages deeper levels of meditation and dreams. A healing stone for disorders of the bladder, kidneys and bloodstream.
Pietersite
Pietersite is found only in Namibia in gem quality and to a lesser extent (and quality) in China. It is formed from asbestos, the same family as the tiger’s eye with the same fibrous structure. However, whereas the tigers’ eye fibres run in one direction, in Pietersite there is no particular formation or direction as the varying shades of golden brown, orange, blue, silver and grey all interact. Flashes of chatoyancy are seen when the stone is rotated. Also known as Tempest Stone, it is a great energizer on physical, mental and spiritual levels. it promotes the attitude that anything is possible and assists in finding the energy to achieve one’s goals.
Peridot
The gem variety of the mineral olivine, usually green and yellow-green, was named (1706) from an old French term of unknown origin. Generally, the greener type tends to be called peridot and the yellower type, chrysolite. Although known in biblical times, the source of peridot was the subject of great speculation until the 19th century. One theory was that the gems were from meteorites containing olivine found in Mediterranean countries. it was only early this century that the ancient source was discovered to be the island of Zebirget (known in English as St. John Island) on the Egyptian shore of the Red Sea. Peridot (or olivine, as it is also known) is said to have been one of the stones used in the breastplate of the ancient high priest. It is thought to reduce stress, accelerate personal growth, stimulate the mind and open new doors of opportunity and abundance while banishing lethargy and laziness. it can also help to heal a “bruised” ego by controlling anger or jealousy. It is a good antitoxin stone, cleaning most organs and glands, and an excellent healing stone, acting as a “tonic” to strengthen and regenerate the body. Peridot has been used in the treatment of ulcers and disorders of the heart, lungs, spleen and intestinal tract. It has also been used in the birthing process, thought to stimulate contractions and facilitate the opening of the birth canal. Peridot is one of the birthstones for August (with sardonyx), symbolizing married happiness.
Pearl
Pearls are valued as gemstones although they are not actually minerals, but organic gems. They are the result of a minute particle of foreign matter, such as a fine grain of sand, entering the shell of a mollusc and being coated with the same material that covers the inside of the shell (called nacre, or mother-of-pearl). Eventually, the grain of sand is transformed into a pearl. There is a wide colour range including white, black, grey, pinkish-white, and yellow-white. The name dates back to the 14th century. Many explanations for the origins of pearls were advanced in earlier times, some of them very poetic. According to the old Eastern legend, quoted by the ancient scholar Pliny, oysters rose to the surface of the sea beneath the moon’s rays, opened their shells and were fertilized by drops of dew. It was not until the 15th century that a Dutch scholar recognized the true origin of pearls. Today most pearls are “cultured” – the same kind of oyster is used in a controlled environment to produce the pearls. A round bead or a chip of the Mother-of-Pearl shell is introduced into the oyster which reacts by coating nacre over the foreign body to form a pearl. Because the pearl is formed as the direct result of irritation, it is thought to hold the key to how we can overcome oppression and pain, an example of how to turn insignificant into the sublime and beautiful. the pearl is thought to signify faith, charity and innocence and to enhance personal integrity. It has been used in the treatment of digestive disorders and is thought to increase fertility and ease childbirth. The pearl is one of the birthstones for June (with moonstone and alexandrite), symbolizing health and longevity.
Opal Glass
Opal glass is also known as Opalite, is a man-made gemstone that was first produced in Venice during the 16th century. It has been used to create a wide variety of objects such as carvings, jewellery, dinnerware, lamps and vases. It comes in a variety of colours; pink, green, yellow, white and the most popular today is opaque to translucent blue. Opal glass signifies purity, even physically purifying the blood and kidneys. Other healing uses include easing childbirth, stress, fevers, infections and stabilizes mood swings. Opalite is also a stone for communication and attracting positive light and energy into one’s life.
Opal
A quartz mineral valued for its iridescence and showing variations in colour from white to black and in transparency from transparent to opaque. Numerous types are known, but usually, only the transparent and translucent varieties are used as gems. Opals contain between 1% and 21% water. The name derives from the Latin word Opalus meaning “stone” or “jewel” (14th century). The ancients believed that the storm god, jealous of the beauty of the rainbow god, broke the rainbow and that pieces of the rainbow falling to the earth became a part of the opal. In spite of the superstition that it brings bad luck, opal has been used as a gemstone for many centuries. In the Middle Ages, blonde maidens valued opal necklaces as they believed they helped their hair to keep its colour. Opals were also believed to help women to relax during childbirth. The native American Indians and the Australian Aborigines have used opal to invoke visions and it is known as a “stone of happy dreams and changes”. it is thought to disperse infections and alleviate fever, purify the blood and the kidneys, regulate insulin production and improve eyesight. Opal is one of the birthstones for October (with tourmaline), symbolizing hope.
Onyx
A translucent chalcedony usually consisting of straight, parallel bands and coloured black and white in alternating layers (14th century). Onyx is said to have been one of the stones used in the breastplate of the ancient high priest. For hundreds of years, it was carved to produce cameos as the contrast between the different coloured layers heightened the relief. It has been used to alleviate grief, promote self-control and wise decision making and bring happiness and good fortune. It is considered to be useful in the treatment of heart trouble, ear/hearing problems, watery eyes, hair problems and disorders related to bone marrow. It is thought to relieve stress by enhancing self-control and inspiring serenity. Onyx is the zodiac gemstone for Leo (23 July to 22 August).
Obsidian
Obsidian is lustrous volcanic glass formed in the flaming core of the earth and transported to the surface in volcanic eruptions. Also called lava glass, obsidian is fairly fragile. Although the colour range and related names are varied, it is generally deep black, black with white flecks (snowflake obsidian), dark green or brown. The name derives from Obsianus Lapis (1601) meaning the stone of Obsius, its supposed discoverer. Obsidian was a valued trading material amongst North American Indian tribes who used it to make arrowheads and to deepen their insight during rituals and celebrations. Obsidian is a protective stone, calming internal and external energies and shielding one from the causes of physical and emotional harm as well as negativity. Because of its ability to bring people “down to earth”, it is a useful stone for those who become lost in daydreams. In addition to stimulating digestion, obsidian is thought to strengthen the skin, hair, nails, bones and spine. Snowflake obsidian, probably the most popular, is the black obsidian with inclusions of a white material (phenocryst) whose structure when polished resembles a snowflake. Snowflake obsidian is thought to promote sensitivity to the most vital powers in the universe – love and beauty. A “stone of purity”, it brings balance and purity to the body, mind and spirit. it can be used to smooth the skin and to clear the eyes as well as in the treatment of disorders of the veins and skeletal structure.
Mother of Pearl
Mother of Pearl also known as Nacre is valued as a gemstone although it is not actually a mineral, but an organic gem. The smooth, iridescent substance is formed from the inside of a shell. Often Abalone shells and Oysters. In ancient times Mother of Pearl was among the first materials used to create decorative items such as boxes, jewellery, ceremonial items and even plates and bowls. To this day Mother of pearl is used to create many beautiful items one of which is a spoon-like utensil for caviar, so as not to spoil the taste with metal spoons. Mother-of-pearl is said to bring prosperity, intuition and faith. It has soothing and gentle energy, especially with young children. Children who are hyperactive and suffer from learning disorders will benefit from this material as it will bring calmness to a restless mind, relieve stress and bring focus. It is also a very protective gem, like a protective mother it will ward off negative thoughts and energies. Can also be helpful with fertility and promote healthy lactation when breastfeeding.
Moonstone
A form of opaque, usually patterned, chalcedony which is found in massive formations. The mineral is usually stained by impurities and occurs in various colours such as red, green, brown or yellow. The popular red variety is fine-grained quartz, coloured by inclusions of haematite. The colours may be arranged in bands of red or a mottled mixture of many different patterns and colours. It was named in the 14th century. From ancient times this hard and durable gemstone was cherished for its beauty and mystical properties. The jasper mentioned in the Bible as one of the stones in the breastplate of the ancient high priest and in the wall of the New Jerusalem is believed to have been a dark green, opalescent stone. Jasper is believed to bring good health as well as courage and wisdom in undertakings involving risk. Because of its physical properties, engravers of ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt carved this stone into exquisite cameos, intaglios and scarabs. Jasper was considered a sacred stone by the Native American Indians. The jasper containing a yellow colour was used to assist and protect during times of travel (spiritual and physical), that contained the red colour was thought to induce health and rebirth, bringing fresh ideas to the holder and that containing the blue colour was used to connect one with the afterù worlds. Jasper can be used in the treatment of tissue deterioration of the internal organs and for disorders of the kidneys, spleen, bladder, liver and stomach. It can also be used to treat the loss of the sense of smell and is thought to soothe the nerves.
Mookaite
A form of opaque, usually patterned, chalcedony which is found in massive formations. The mineral is usually stained by impurities and occurs in various colours such as red, green, brown or yellow. The popular red variety is fine-grained quartz, coloured by inclusions of haematite. The colours may be arranged in bands of red or a mottled mixture of many different patterns and colours. It was named in the 14th century. From ancient times this hard and durable gemstone was cherished for its beauty and mystical properties. The jasper mentioned in the Bible as one of the stones in the breastplate of the ancient high priest and in the wall of the New Jerusalem is believed to have been a dark green, opalescent stone. Jasper is believed to bring good health as well as courage and wisdom in undertakings involving risk. Because of its physical properties, engravers of ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt carved this stone into exquisite cameos, intaglios and scarabs. Jasper was considered a sacred stone by the Native American Indians. The jasper containing a yellow colour was used to assist and protect during times of travel (spiritual and physical), that contained the red colour was thought to induce health and rebirth, bringing fresh ideas to the holder and that containing the blue colour was used to connect one with the afterù worlds. Jasper can be used in the treatment of tissue deterioration of the internal organs and for disorders of the kidneys, spleen, bladder, liver and stomach. It can also be used to treat the loss of the sense of smell and is thought to soothe the nerves.
Moldavite
Moldavite belongs to the Tektite Group. Generally rough in shape in a pleasing green with a scarred surface and bubble-looking indentations. The most widely accepted theory behind the origin of moldavite is that it was formed by sand and rock particles melting as they shot through the atmosphere after a very large meteorite crashed into the earth’s surface. Everything around it vaporized except the minerals which boiled and came back as meteorite showers with the pull of gravity. Moldavite is found mainly in the Czech Republic and is one of the rarest varieties of Tektites. It was formed over 15 million years ago and is the only known “gem quality” stone of so-called “extra-terrestrial” origin. The mineral directs channelling and serves as a powerful tool for spiritual development and awareness. It is one of the most powerful of the “New Age” stones and facilitates the strong and clear connection between one’s consciousness and the higher planes of spiritual enlightenment. Moldavite works best for the third eye, the throat chakra and in the area of the crown chakra. It also acts as a healing balm for deep longings to “go home”. It helps one to understand one’s true purpose in life. Moldavite is a good healer where physical illness is caused by pollution (e.g. Asthma) and where cigarette smoking is a problem.
Malachite
The name derives from the Greek (14th century) Malakhe, meaning “mallow”, a plant similar in colour. A carbonate of copper, malachite is opaque and always green. It has a striking colour stratification, varying from bright green to a very dark, even blackish green. The “stripes” are generally curved according to the outer surface of the stone. As far back as the Bronze Age, malachite was used for ornaments and jewellery but was also melted down to produce copper. It was highly valued for many centuries in Eastern Europe as an ornamental stone, especially in veneered form for tables and boxes. Malachite was also used in the treatment of cholera, colic, growths and other internal ailments. It is thought to stimulate instinctive and intuitive reasoning, promoting change that facilitates advancement. It is said to represent fidelity in love and friendship, loyalty in partnerships, and practicality and responsibility in business transactions. Malachite is helpful in the treatment of eye-sight problems, toothache, vertigo and menstrual disorders. It is thought to protect against and can be used in treating asthma, arthritis, rheumatism, tumours, growths, broken bones and torn muscles.
Magnetite
Magnetite is a black oxide of iron in the spinel group and is also known in the gemstone trade as Lodestone. The colour range includes iron black and pale brown and the stone is strongly magnetic. It is found both in dark octahedral crystals and in amorphous lumps and can be attracted by a magnet from surrounding rubble. The name dates back to 1851. It is said that in 2634 BC the Chinese emperor Huang-it constructed a compass with the aid of magnetite and that in twelfth-century Europe the Vikings were using it for magnetic needles. Because of its magnetic power, it has been called the Hercules Stoneù. In days past it was particularly popular with men who used it to retain and strengthen virility. Throughout history, magnetite has been credited with the ability to cure rheumatism, general weakness, liver disorders, eye diseases, fractures, leg cramps, neuralgia and barrenness in women. Today it is also used to correct spinal damage caused by bad posture. Magnetite is said to promote tenacity, durability and endurance and to provide the answers required to get out of undesirable situations by enabling one to view things from a distance
Magnesite
(Also see Howlite)All the material on the market over the last 20-years has come from Zimbabwe either cauliflower-shaped nuggets (known as Turqureniteù when dyed to look like Turquoise) or in massive white form with grey blotching (incorrectly known as Howliteù, especially when dyed blue). High in magnesium, this stone treats bone and teeth disorders. It helps prevent heart diseases by dispensing cholesterol, has a calming effect on nervous and stressed people, and stimulates new ideas and positive thoughts.
Lodestone
Magnetite is a black oxide of iron in the spinel group and is also known in the gemstone trade as Lodestone. The colour range includes iron black and pale brown and the stone is strongly magnetic. It is found both in dark octahedral crystals and in amorphous lumps and can be attracted by a magnet from surrounding rubble. The name dates back to 1851. It is said that in 2634 BC the Chinese emperor Huang-it constructed a compass with the aid of magnetite and that in twelfth-century Europe the Vikings were using it for magnetic needles. Because of its magnetic power, it has been called the Hercules Stoneù. In days past it was particularly popular with men who used it to retain and strengthen virility. Throughout history, magnetite has been credited with the ability to cure rheumatism, general weakness, liver disorders, eye diseases, fractures, leg cramps, neuralgia and barrenness in women. Today it is also used to correct spinal damage caused by bad posture. Magnetite is said to promote tenacity, durability and endurance and to provide the answers required to get out of undesirable situations by enabling one to view things from a distance.
Lepidolite
Normally found as a pale lilac rock in massive pegmatites, this mineral is often associated with pink Tourmaline, Spodumene and Mica. Pink, Lepidolite-rich Mica can consist of very fine layers so compact that it looks like a solid piece of lilac stone. The pink colour is associated with the heart and purple with the brain used to soothe and clear either-or to bring peace between the two when in conflict with each other. A piece of Lepidolite under one’s pillow is said to clear the mind and assist in sleep. A strong healing mineral reducing the dependency on medicines, drugs and alcohol, it activates the heart and throat chakra.
Lava
Lava said to be derived from the Latin word ‘Labes’ which translates to, “to fall”, is a form of molten rock that has been expelled by a volcano and becomes solidified once cooled after an eruption. Lava makes up the core of some planets including earth and in its liquid state reaches temperatures as hot as 1,200∞C. Often dark charcoal grey to black in colour, Lava has an interesting matt surface that is rough and nobly. It is incredibly light in weight and some substances even float on water. When Lava is cooled more rapidly, this is all dependent on the nature and whereabouts of the eruption, it forms Obsidian which is a volcanic glass. Lava stone was used quite extensively around the 17th to 18th century by talented masonries in Sicily, Italy for decorative and dramatic brickwork during the Baroque period. Although carrying gentle energy, Lava provides a strong sense of stability, strength and courage. It is a great help in assisting one with changes in life, bringing confidence and a positive attitude when taking on challenges. Since it comes straight from the earth fiery core Lava keeps one protected and grounded. Especially useful for the Root Chakra. Lava has been used in ancient times as a remedy for poor libido and infertility, as well as bringing one out of a depressive and self-destructive state.
Larimar
An attractive pastel blue and greenstone with white, also known as Blue Pectolite and supplied from the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean. It is relatively soft and was first named in 1916. Larimar represents peace and emotional harmony, helps to dispel anger and controls emotions, especially feelings of guilt. It is a stimulant for the heart, third eye, crown and especially the throat Chakra. It enables spiritual and psychological challenges to be met with a clear mind and confidence. Larimar is a calming stone carried at home to create a peaceful family environment and at work for clear rational thinking.
Lapis Lazuli
A rich azure-blue in colour, lapis lazuli is a combination of minerals, primarily lazurite and Alcite, often with spangles of iron pyrites. The name comes from the Arabic word Lazaward (14th century) from which the English word azureù comes. The best quality lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan, where it has been mined since antiquity. In 1271 Marco Polo discovered old Lapis mines in Afghanistan and from there it was exported to Germany, China, Russia and India. The ancient Egyptians, who often used it for their seals, probably also obtained their supplies from Afghanistan. It is a royal stone and was revered both in ancient Egypt and in Jewish history, as it was probably the òsapphire on the high priest’s breastplate. It was used in Egypt to temper the ill effects of acts on incest, like pharaohs, the rulers of ancient Egypt customarily married their eldest sister. For centuries powdered Lapis was used as a pigment in oil paintings. It was a favourite jewellery stone, said to promote friendship and goodwill and to guard against oppression and evil. It is also known as the stone of truth and integrity and is thought to enhance wisdom, inner vision and mental clarity. It can help one to overcome depression, enhancing feelings of serenity and self-acceptance, and is said to bring success in relationships and cheer to the user. Lapis can be used in the treatment of disorders of the throat, bone marrow, thymus and immune system and can help to relieve insomnia and dizziness. Lapis lazuli is one of the birthstones for December (with turquoise), symbolizing prosperity.
Labradorite
A type of feldspar with an uninteresting background colour but displaying an iridescence which gives the stone its value. The background colour is a dark smoke grey, but when light strikes it in a particular direction, it displays striking rainbow-coloured reflections (peacock blue, coppery red or dusky gold) known as labradorescence. The name derives (1814) from its main source, the Labrador peninsula in Canada. Labradorite is thought by some to symbolize the moon and the sun and has, in fact, been found to be a constituent of moon rock. Feldspar, and therefore labradorite, assists one to progress from old ways, encouraging unconventional and exciting new methods to attain one’s goals. Labradorite can also assist one to handle changes, promoting strength and perseverance. It has been known as the matriarch of the subconscious mind, facilitating the transformation of intuition into intellectual thought. It is said to be helpful in the treatment of disorders of the brain, to stimulate mental acuity and reduce anxiety and stress. It can assist in digestion, regulation and metabolism and has been used to clarify the eyes. Labradorite is Saturday’s gemstone.
Kyanite
A gemstone quality aluminium silicate, the word Kyanite derives from the Greek word ‘Kuanos’ meaning ‘deep blue’. The blue variety of Kyanite is the most common but other colours such as black, green, orange, indigo, white and rarely pink have been found. Similar to that of Cat’s Eye and Tigers Eye, Kyanite shows off lustrous reflections when turned, which is called chatoyancy. Kyanite is often seen in jewellery form but is also used in the production of industrial products such as mortars, brake shoe lining, pottery and electronic ceramics to mention a few. A strong healing stone, Kyanite can be used on all chakras. Especially beneficial for the higher chakras assisting with spiritual growth, intuition and lucid dreaming. Kyanite promotes clarity and clear communication. It is said to be a useful remedy for sore throats, headaches and help one maintain healthy blood pressure.
Kunzite
Although strictly speaking, Kunzite is the pink-lilac variety of Spodumene, other colours vary from white to yellow and green. The latter is referred to as Hiddenite. The colour in Kunzite is always stronger when looking through the C axis. The main sources are Brazil, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Kunzite is known as the Woman’s Stoneù and is said to relieve hormonal problems and ease pre and post-natal depression. It is said to strengthen the heart muscle and circulation, relaxes muscles, relieves tension headaches and because of its high lithium content, it is a remedy for nervous disorders.
Jet
Also known as Gagatù, this is a fossilized form of bituminous wood which has not yet been silicified. It is very soft and easy to carve and was extensively worked in factories in the late 1800s especially in England and Germany. Today, most material is mined in Russia and Mongolia and it has made a resurgence in the fashion market. In the late 19th Century it was a popular accessory with the black clothing worn by the women of that time. Its origins go back to the Bronze Age (necklaces and bracelets containing jets have been found with other valuables in ancient burial sites). When burnt, it gives off a vile odour and is known as the Stone of Saturn. Black symbolizes resilience, self-control and preservation and is meant to dispel fearful thoughts and to protect the wearer against illness, disease and violence.