Amazonite The more common, pale blue-green form of this stone. It is frequently mined in the U.S.A.   Amazonite is believed to have many healing characteristics, including improving your skin, marriage, clarity of thought and social interaction. It is also credited with alleviating muscle spasms, stress and exhaustion. The gemstone is found mainly in the U.S.A., Russia, Madagascar, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Australia.
Amethyst Amethyst is the most highly prized variety of quartz and if not for its widespread availability, would be very expensive. With its luscious color, it is the official birthstone for February.    Amethyst is formed in silica-rich liquids deposited in gas cavities (geodes) in lava. It occurs in crystalline masses, but the crystals are generally not well developed, so they generally are found as clusters of crystal points.   Some amethysts will lose their color in daylight, so keeping them away from direct exposure will help maintain their rich purple.   In addition to "preventing" drunkenness, people also once thought the stone to encourage celibacy and symbolize piety. Amethyst was therefore very important in the ornamentation of Catholic and other churches in the Middle Ages. They also claim amethyst cures impatience, alleviates feelings of victimization, balances high-energy, eliminates chaos, and helps keep one grounded. Amethyst is mined in Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia, Argentina, the U.S.A., Zambia, Namibia and other African countries.
Hematite Hematite is a silvery, shiny opaque gemstone that almost looks like metal. Like nearly all commercially available “hematite” beads, our hematite is a simulated material virtually identical to real hematite. It even has the same chemical composition — both genuine and simulated hematite are iron oxide.  The story behind natural hematite is still relevant to this gemstone, especially considering real hematite is used to make it. Hematite gets its name from the Greek haimo for “blood,” because of the color of its powder (hence the red streak it leaves). Hematite was used in seals as early as 2500 B.C. The ancient Egyptians used hematite to treat hysteria, reduce inflammation and place in tombs. Known as the gift of Russian royalty, hematite rings and pendants were presented by Lord Baranof to the royal family of Czar Alexander I as gifts from his Alaskan subjects. And until recently, blush (cosmetic powder) contained ground hematite.   Metaphysically, hematite is said to inspire inner life and help to keep inward peace. Called the “stone of mental mastery,” many believe it to aid clarity, balance and calm reason, thus making it a grounding stone. It also is supposed to dissolve negativity and transform it into love. For this reason, it assists in the creation of peaceful, loving, kind relationships. Hematite also is said to enhance memory and intellect, strengthen the circulatory system and help in the treatment of blood and kidney disorders.
Jasper The Greek origin of the word jasper, iaspis, means "spotted stone."  The gemstone is often named according to its pattern; landscape jaspers are the most popular. It has a dull luster but takes a fine polish, and its hardness and other physical properties are those of quartz. Jasper is often sealed with petroleum products. Its polish might wash away in water, so clean with a soft, dry cloth.   The gem was a favorite in the ancient world, and the name jasper can be traced back in Hebrew, Assyrian, Persian, Greek and Latin. People of the fourth century called it the great "rain-bringer," and it has been thought to strengthen the stomach and cure gynecological troubles. Some also use it to drive away evil spirits and protect against snake and spider bites. It supposedly gives you the courage to speak out and the bravery to achieve personal independence. Jasper is mined in North Africa, Sicily, France, India, Venezula, Germany, the U.S.A. and many more countries.
Fancy Jasper aka India Agate This gemstone is an opaque creamy beige stone with gray, lavender or green swirls. It is said to facilitate tranquility and help eliminate worry and depression. It also might bring mental clarity. Fancy jasper is the same gemstone as India Agate.
Leopardskin Jasper     This is one of those confusing jaspers, as some just refer to it as a rhyolite. It is mottled with red, yellow, brown and pinkish spots like the fur of a leopard. It is considered a wonderful companion gemstone for working on bringing things into your life that you want. It also may enhance your total vibration, stabilizing the heart and solar plexus areas.
Ocean Jasper This gemstone is silicified (transformed into silica) rhyolite flow from the northwest coast of Madagascar. It is reminiscent of foam as it recedes back into the ocean, with its wavy patterns of green-gray, white, cream, beige, brown, pink and marooon. It even sometimes flaunts the iridescent white circles so intrinsic to sea spray. Ocean jasper is believed to teach responsibility and patience, as well as aid in regulating breathing for meditation
Picture Jasper This petrified mud has streaks of color (usually shades of brown) that look like landscapes, anything from desert sand dunes to rocky mountains to a dry riverbed. It is formed by mud rich with quartz that oozed and dripped into pockets of gas formed by molten lava. The heat from the exposure turns the mud almost instantly solid. Picture Jasper is found in Idaho and Oregon, and has been used as a psychological tool: The researcher will ask a client who is "looking for an answer" to gaze into the stone and describe all the symbols he sees. The researcher then works with the client to form the symbols into some sort of answer. Picture jasper is said to help with the re-evaluation of life's issues. It's believed to facilitate development and continuance of business pursuits and activities.
Poppy Jasper aka Poppy Seed Jasper A red, pink and black gemstone, poppy jasper is so named because it looks like a bunch of pink and red poppies.
Rainbow Jasper This red, brown and tan jasper is found in Northern California and South Africa. A "sustaining stone," it is said to be helpful in times of low energy and stabilize the aura. It also is believed to produce a calming effect, especially in decision-making.
Red Jasper With its acorn-red coloring and bark-gray stripes, this gemstone has a decidedly earthy quality. The stripes often seen in red jasper are quartz veins. It is used to regulate metabolic energy and promote physical stamina. It also is believed to have the ability to send negative energy back to the sender, the way a mirror reflects light.
Rose Jasper This gemstone of mottled red, green and pink symbolizes emotional security and is therefore believed to give emotional stability to the wearer.
Silver Leaf Jasper This finely colored and patterned jasper is reminiscent of silvery leaves in a forest. It contains shades of cream and black, bits of brown and, occasionally, hints of red. Its patterns tend to be in lines and bands, and it is said to provide protection and good luck.
Tigerskin Jasper With its golden brown base and dark stripes, this jasper resembles a great jungle cat. Some beads may sport sleek veins of tigereye.
Denium Lapis Denim lapis is a relatively pale lapis. Its color resembles faded denim, which is due to calcite inclusions — these inclusions whiten the color, which lowers the value, but also make it a great accessory for casual, blue-jean outfits. This gemstone is mined in Chile and Afghanistan.  Today, people around the world consider lapis lazuli to be a stone of truth and friendship. It is reputed to bring about harmony in relationships and to cleanse the mental body while releasing old karmic patterns. Being a spiritual stone, it allows spiritual energy to be absorbed in the aura. Major sources include Afghanistan, Egypt, Canada and Chile.
Rhodochrosite aka Rhodocrosite, Raspberry Spar, Manganese Spar, Inca Rose This uniquely marbled stone is a dance of various shades of pink, ranging from very light to a deep raspberry. A manganese ore, rhodochrosite appears in a banded pattern with various white minerals (often calcite) that give it the look of a raw bacon strip! Its name is derived from the Greek words rhodon ("pink") and chros ("color"). Though it has certain similarities to another pink gemstone, rhodonite, the latter is harder and has different cleavage. The best distinguishing factor between the two, however, is rhodonite's lack of reaction to acids; rhodochrosite easily reacts to cold acids, which demonstrates its carbonate chemistry.
Rhodonite aka Pink Marble Rhodonite is an opaque, deep rosy pink to lavender gemstone with characteristic black veins called dendrites. Composed of manganese silicate, it makes a more durable gemstone than rhodochrosite, which is streaked with white minerals and is reactive to acids. Rhodonite, on the other hand, does not react to acids and is usually associated with black manganese minerals and pyrite.  Sometimes called the "the singer's stone," rhodonite is said to improve sound-sensitivity. Many also believe it to help with the nervous system and self-esteem, and to balance trauma. It has long been considered a strong-feminine stone, as in the velvet glove over the iron fist. Natural healers associate rhodonite with the throat chakra (fifth), to help achieve potential and dispel worry. Important sources of this gemstone include Brazil, Mexico, Peru and Colorado.
Rhyolite aka Rainforest Jasper Though at first glance it might look like jasper, rhyolite is an igneous rock with high silica content — chemically identical to granite. It cooled from a molten state (as hot as 2192°F), too quickly for crystals to form. Because rhyolitic magma and lava are so thick, they tend to build up pressure until a gas explosion in the volcano throws them all over the place in particles ranging from ash all the way up to big blocky chunks. The stone's mossy greens, browns and grays are reminiscent of a rainforest, and it presents interesting banding.   Rhyolite represents change, variety and progress. It is said to light the fire of creativity within the soul and help with self-realization; it's believed to balance the emotions and increase self-respect, self-worth and the capacity to love. Rhyolite occurs throughout the world.
Riverstone This is the standard, creamy beige riverstone.  Riverstones are smooth, rounded pebbles found in rivers and on beaches. They become naturally polished as water and other rocks move against them. Some say they are related to jasper. This gemstone is known for its regenerative effect on the body and for its ability to relieve anxiety. It is also said to energize the aura, helping you make the changes that lead to greater spiritual experiences. It has been very hard to obtain since 2003.
Sodalite This is the standard, blue-and-white sodalite.  Sodalite has been discovered in ancient tombs and ruins in various ornamental forms, often as a replacement for lapis lazuli. It is said that Egyptian priests often used sodalite to dispel fears and to promote a clear, insightful mind. Mystics today say the gemstone can help change the way you feel about yourself. It is believed to have subtle, soothing energies and help you to see the wisdom of adopting a simpler, less hectic lifestyle. It also is said to be effective in combating radiation. Physically, sodalite is said to help boost the immune system, balance the metabolism and cleanse the organs. It is found in Namibia, Brazil, Canada, Italy, India, Russia and the U.S.A.
Sunstone This bright, sparkling stone is a feldspar crystal formed in molten lava and then discharged onto the surface of the earth by a volcano. As the lava weathers away or is broken up, crystals are released. Sunstone gets its name from the ways its inclusions reflect the sun's light. This gemstone varies from golden to orange to red-brown, and can be transparent or translucent. Sunstone has a distinctly metallic look, due to sparkling inclusions (usually hematite or goethite crystals) of red, orange or green. Sunstone is believed to strengthen the life force, bring luck, instill optimism and increase strength and vitality. Many say it assists contemplative processes and bolsters the energy level. It might lend extra physical energy in times of stress or ill health. Sunstone also is thought to bring luck and romance to the wearer, and is believed helpful to the liver and kidneys. It is largely found in Oregon, where it is the state gemstone, and also in India, Canada, South Norway and Russia

 

 Major Information Sources

 

1.     Gemological Institute of America. Gem Reference Guide.
United States of America: Gemological Institute of America, 1988.

2.     Cipriani, Curzio and Alessandro Borelli. Ed. Kennie Layman. Trans. Valerie Palmer. Simon & Schuster's Guide to Gems and Precious Stones.
New York: Simon & Schuster, 1986.

3.     "Gem by Gem." International Colored Gemstone Association Web Page. 6 April 2004.
http://www.gemstone.org/gem-by-gem

4.     "Minerals by Name" Amethyst Galleries' Mineral Gallery. 6 April 2004.
http://mineral.galleries.com/minerals/by-name.htm

5.     Dahlstrom, Ake and Leif Brost. Trans. Jonas Leijonhufvud. The Amber Book.
Tucson: Geoscience Press Inc.,1995.

6.     "Crystals, Gems and Minerals." The Mystic Eye Web Page. 6 April 2004.
http://www.themysticeye.com/info/minerals.htm

7.     "Orchid Forum." The Ganoksin Project Web Page. 2 April 2004.
http://www.ganoskin.com.

8.     Semi Precious Stone Web Page. 6 April 2004.
http://www.semi-precious-stone.com

9.     The Mineral and Gemstone Kingdom Web Page. 6 April 2004.
http://www.minerals.net/mineral/sort-met.hod/alphabet/abcdsort.htm

10.                        "Misleading Gem Names." Gemscape Web Page. 6 April 2004.
http://www.gemscape.com/html/misnomer.htm

11.                        Peter W. Harben Inc, Industrial Minerals Consultants, Web Page. 3 April 2004.
http://www.peterharben.com/pwhimname.html

12.                        Weldon, Robert G.G. "For Your Staff: Selling Treated Gemstones." September 1998. Professionaljeweler.com.
http://www.professionaljeweler.com/archives/articles/1998/sep98/0998fys2.html

13.                        Ruffin, Deirdre and Steve Teeter. Dolomite and the Problem it Presents: Quantitative Methods in Rocks and Minerals. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2003.

14.                        Gautron, Laurent and Meisser, Nicola. "Prehnite from La Combe De La Selle, Saint Christophe-en-Oisans, Isere, France" May/June 2001 Mineralogical Record.

Hughes, Richard W.  "Burma's Jade Mines: An Annotated Occidental History." Journal of the Geoliterary Society. Vol. 14, No. 1, 1999.

 

 

Metaphysical Properties for Gemstones

Amazonite

Amazonite is believed to have many healing characteristics, including improving your skin, marriage, clarity of thought and social interaction.

Amethyst

Amethyst is believed to cures impatience, alleviate feelings of victimization, balances high-energy, eliminates chaos, and helps keep one grounded

Fluorite

Fluorite mineral's energy is purported to help the evolution of harmonious, peaceful and organized spiritual growth. It has been said to help clear the mind and heighten mental achievement while increasing the ability to concentrate.

Hematite

Called the “stone of mental mastery,” many believe it to aid clarity, balance and calm reason, thus making it a grounding stone.

White Howlite

Howlite is the stone of memory, knowledge and progress, and is said to encourage reasoning, observation, discernment, patience and tact. It also is believed to eliminate pain, stress and anger, and help balance calcium levels in the body, aiding absorption and distribution.

Jasper

Some also use it to drive away evil spirits and protect against snake and spider bites. It supposedly gives you the courage to speak out and the bravery to achieve personal independence.

Fancy Jasper

aka India Agate

Fancy Jasper is said to facilitate tranquility and help eliminate worry and depression. It also might bring mental clarity.

Leopardskin Jasper

Leopardskin Jasper is considered a wonderful companion gemstone for working on bringing things into your life that you want.  Jasper  supposedly gives you the courage to speak out and the bravery to achieve personal independence.

Ocean Jasper

aka Orbicular Jasper, Fisheye Jasper

Ocean jasper is believed to teach responsibility and patience, as well as aid in regulating breathing for meditation.

Picture Jasper

Picture jasper is said to help with the re-evaluation of life's issues. It's believed to facilitate development and continuance of business pursuits and activities.

Poppy Jasper

A red, pink and black gemstone, poppy jasper is so named because it looks like a bunch of pink and red poppies.

Rainbow Jasper

A "sustaining stone," Rainbow Jasper is said to be helpful in times of low energy and stabilize the aura. It also is believed to produce a calming effect, especially in decision-making.

Red Jasper

Red Jasper is used to regulate metabolic energy and promote physical stamina. It also is believed to have the ability to send negative energy back to the sender, the way a mirror reflects light.

Rose Jasper

Rose Jasper gemstone of mottled red, green and pink symbolizes emotional security and is therefore believed to give emotional stability to the wearer.

Silver Leaf Jasper

Silver Leaf Jasper patterns tend to be in lines and bands, and it is said to provide protection and good luck.

Denim Lapis

Denim Lapis is reputed to bring about harmony in relationships and to cleanse the mental body while releasing old karmic patterns. Being a spiritual stone, it allows spiritual energy to be absorbed in the aura.

Lapis Nevada

aka Nevada Lapis

Nevada Lapis stone is believed to be a source of creativity, as well as acting as a protector and promoting courage.

Malachite

aka Peacock Stone, Pseudo-Emerald, Silver Peak Jade

Malachite was considered to be a talisman particularly appropriate for children. If a piece of this gemstone were attached to an infant's cradle, all evil spirits were held at bay and the child slept soundly and peacefully. Today malachite is still used as a children's talisman to ward off danger and illness.  Malachite is said to aid in the regeneration of body cells and lend extra energy. It is believed that gazing at malachite or holding it relaxes the nervous system and calms stormy emotions. Malachite is said to bring harmony into one's life, and give knowledge and patience.

Black Onyx

Black onyx believed to help with self-control and decision making.

Opal

Opal is believed to aid in the healing of eye diseases, and if a person is ill, it is believed to lose all color to the wearer. It is also said to soothe the eyes and the nerves, and might enhance creativity.

Prehnite

Known as the "prediction stone" among spiritual healers, prehnite is believed to enhance one's protective field, dreaming and remembrance. Crystal healers use the stone to reduce high blood pressure and control hypertension, as it is believed prehnite's color and unusual touch generate serenity and tranquility. It is also thought to build the immune system and treat blood disorders.

Rhodochrosite

aka Rhodocrosite, Raspberry Spar, Manganese Spar, Inca Rose

Rhodocrosite is believed to be a source of healing for many aliments.

Rhodonite

aka Pink Marble

Many also believe Rhodonite to help with the nervous system and self-esteem, and to balance trauma. It has long been considered a strong-feminine stone, as in the velvet glove over the iron fist. Natural healers associate rhodonite with the throat chakra (fifth), to help achieve potential and dispel worry.

Rhyolite

aka Rainforest Jasper

Rhyolite represents change, variety and progress. It is said to light the fire of creativity within the soul and help with self-realization; it's believed to balance the emotions and increase self-respect, self-worth and the capacity to love.

Riverstone

Riverstone is known for its regenerative effect on the body and for its ability to relieve anxiety. It is also said to energize the aura, helping you make the changes that lead to greater spiritual experiences.

Sodalite

Sodalite is believed to have subtle, soothing energies and help you to see the wisdom of adopting a simpler, less hectic lifestyle. It also is said to be effective in combating radiation. Physically, sodalite is said to help boost the immune system, balance the metabolism and cleanse the organs.

Sunstone

aka Aventurine Orthoclase, Heliolite, Aventurine Feldspar

Sunstone is believed to strengthen the life force, bring luck, instill optimism and increase strength and vitality.

Ruby and Zoisite

aka Ruby-in-Zoisite, Anyolite

Ruby and Zoisite stone is said to help amplify the whole energy field of a person, reaching within to release inner talents of the mind.

Blue Tigereye

Traditionally, tigereye has been used as a gift between lovers to ease sexual tension and help partners tune in to each other in a psychic or telepathic way. It also is believed to pull one into a more positive and flexible attitude, and is said to be especially effective for stubborn people. Conversely, many wear the stone to strengthen convictions, and to acquire courage and confidence. It also is reputed to relieve such physical conditions as high blood pressure, bronchial asthma, heart disease and psoriasis.

Turquoise

Turquoise is considered a stone of wholeness, promoting the sense of unity of the self and oneness with all that surrounds us. It is said to make one feel at home in both the physical and spiritual worlds.