Gemstone Lore Many people wonder about the mystical and healing properties of stones. The Native Americans called stones the history keepers which is pretty fascinating all on its own. We can't attest to any special power of any of the stones but if you are interested in folklore, you may find this interesting. One thing to keep in mind though, minerals come from stones and we take them in the form of vitamin and mineral pills. Could this be where some of the folklore concerning gemstone lore came into existence? Aegerine Aegerine comes in blades much like kyanite. It is said to aid in building a strong immune system. Agates This is THE stone everyone should have for protection.The agate is one of the oldest stones in recorded history. Agate has the power to harmonize yin and yang, the positive and negative forces that hold the universe in place. A smoothing and calming stone, agate works slowly but brings great strength. Agate is a protection from bad dreams. It also protects from stress and energy drains. Amazonite This semi-opaque blue-green variety of feldspar is named after the Amazon River. Amazonite is said to enhance creative expression, align astral bodies and improve self worth. Amazonite is considered a soothing stone that offers confidence and works on the throat chakra. It is called the "hope stone" because it inspires confidence and hope. One source says it is useful to activate lazy teenagers. Amber Amber is technically not a gemstone or mineral, but a fossilized sap from prehistoric trees that has aged over the course of millions of years. Early physicians prescribed amber for headaches, heart problems, arthritis and a variety of other ailments. In ancient times, amber was carried by travellers for protection. To early Christians, amber signified the presence of the Lord. Amber is a powerful healer and cleanser that draws disease from the body and promotes tissue revitalization. Amethyst Amethyst is extremely beneficial to the mind, calming or stimulating as appropriate. When you meditate, it turns thoughts away from the mundane into tranquility and deeper understanding. Amethyst is very effective for helping with addictions and is traditionally worn to guard against drunkeness and to instill a sober mind. It is used as a dream stone and to help insomnia. Put an amethyst under your pillow to bring about pleasant dreams, or rub it across your forehead to offer relief from a headache. Angelite This stone is formed from celestite that has been compressed for many millions of years. Angelite enhances telepathic communication and enables out-of-body journeys to take place while still maintaining contact with everyday reality. Angelite also repairs and soothes tissues and blood vessels and it is very useful for weight control. Apatite Apatite increases motivation and builds up energy reserve. It also induces openness and social ease, encouraging extroversion and dissolving aloofness and alienation. Apatite heals bones, aids absorption of calcium, helps cartilage, bones, teeth and motor skills. Relieves arthritis, joint problems and helps to overcome hypertension.  Aquamarine Aquamarine is a blue-green stone that comes from Colombia and Brazil. It has been called "Water of the Sea", because of its color. The aquamarine is the stone of sailors, believing it would be protection for them on water. Aquamarine is a stone of courage and to help you be in touch with your spiritual being. Its calming energies reduce stress and quiet the mind and also works to harmonize its surroundings and protect against pollutants. Aragonite Aragonite is a reliable earth healer and grounding stone. It is said to encourage conservation and recycling. Aragonite varies in color and can be white, gray, colorless, yellow, pale blue, violet, or brown. Aragonite is also the primary mineral that makes up the organic compound commonly known as mother of pearl. Locations found are found in Spain, Mexico, Morocco, New Mexico, and Arizona. It was first discovered in Aragon province, Spain where its name was derived.  Aventurine You should never buy a lottery ticket without an aventurine in your pocket. This is the stone of opportunity, chance and luck. A little known fact about aventurine is that is attracts wealth and abundance. Aventurine reinforces leadership qualities and decisiveness. It promotes compassion and empathy and encourages perseverance. It allso stabilizes one’s state of mind, stimulates perception, and enhances creativity. Aventurine is mainly quartz, a quartzite, usually containing mica. It occurs in several colors including green, red and blue.  Azurite Azurite is formed from the oxidation of copper ores. Over time, as it absorbs water, it changes into the mineral malachite. Thus, the two are found together, creating a brilliant deep blue stone with flashes of green. Azurite brings about clear understanding and new perspectives and expands the mind. It releases long-standing blocks in communication and stimulates memory. Bloodstone There is a legend that says the bloodstone was formed from the blood of Christ dripping on the green earth and solidifying. It was also called heliotrope by the Greeks and was thought to bring change. The bloodstone has been used as an amulet to protect against the evil eye. Bloodstone is the symbol of justice. Bloodstone gives courage and teaches how to avoid dangerous situations by withdrawal and flexibility. It encourages selflessness and idealism and aids the recognition that chaos precedes transformation. Some consider it the greatest healing stone. It is good to have several pieces of Bloodstone in the home to increase the flow of life energy. Blue Lace Agate Blue lace agate is one of the rarest and most popular of the agates. The light blue color of blue lace agate helps is in communicating our truth. It is also helpful in balancing the immune system. Wear or carry blue lace agate for peace and happiness. Place it in your hand when you feel the need to destress. If you find yourself in stressful situations at work or home, keep some blue lace agate on your desk and simply gaze at it for relief. Botwana Agate This is the gemstone for people who are sensitive and lonely or easily hurt. It will help you have more self-satisfaction and protect you from hurt as well as warding off the "evil eye". Botswana Agate enhances sexual energy by giving physical stamina.  Bronzite Bronzite is found in the USA, Austria, England, South Africa, India, Labrador, Norway, and Greenland. Bronzite is a silicate compound of magnesium and iron of the pyroxene family. Bronzite is a protective, grounding mineral that is used to restore harmony and self confidence in situations where you feel overwhelmed or powerless. Calcite Calcite is a powerful amplifier and cleanser of energy. It calms the mind, teaches discernment and analysis, stimulates insights, and boosts memory. This transparent crystal can be found in a variety of colors and forms. including clear, green, pink, orange and blue. All calcites emanate a gentle energy providing cleansing and revitalizing. Calcite opens energy channels.  Carnelian Carnelian is found primarily in India, as well as various sites in South America. It is a variety of chalcedony. Folklore suggests that carnelian was used protect the traveler after death and guard against evil. Carnelian's healing properties are thought to help purify the blood, relieve menstrual cramps and back pain and relieve indigestion. It is also thought to be beneficial in the treatment of infertility and is worn to enhance passion and desire. Carnelian is an energy booster. It helps the insecure person to find strength within them so they can come into their own. Chalcedony Considered a sacred stone by the Native American Indians, chalcedony nurtures and promotes brotherhood and good will. Chalcedony is a powerful cleanser, including open sores. Mothers use it to increase lactation, and it also fosters the maternal instinct. It increases physical energy. Healers use it to decrease effects of senility and dementia as well as to heal the eyes, gallbladder, bones, spleen, blood and circulatory system. Charoite Charoite is the soul stone that overcomes fear. It stimulates inner vision and spiritual insights and aids in coping with enormous change at a spiritual level. Charoite lifts energy when the body is exhausted, regulates blood pressure, assists with deep sleep and powerful dreams. Put charoite beneath your pillow, especially if you are prone to disturbed sleep or fears which surface in dreams. In combination with amethyst, it will help to release these fears. Charoite is found along the Chary River at Aldan in Russia. Chinese Writing Stone Chinese writing stone is a limestone matrix with andalusite crystals that appear as a pattern resembling chinese characters. It appears in colors ranging from a very dark gray or almost black to creamy white, both with a slight greenish cast. Chinese Writing Stone is said to promote peaceful dreaming, realign goals towards a higher purpose, reaffirm relationships, commitments and loyalties and accept and adjust to change. This stone is found at the Yangtze River Valley of the Hunan Province of China, and also Auburn, California region of the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas. Chlorite Chlorite is a powerful, positive healing stone, beneficial for the environment or personal energy field. It protects against psychic attack and assists earthbound spirits to move on. Chrysanthemum Stone Chrysanthemum stone is named for its unique patterns embedded in the stone that resemble flowering chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemum Stone drifts gently through time, facilitating time travel. It also teaches how to remain childlike, fun-loving, and innocent while on the spiritual path, and provides an impetuosity to self-development. It creates a sense of balance between physical and spiritual and encourages love and joy. The flowering pattern represents the burst of energy that is love, joy and abundance. This unique stone makes a wonderful gift for anyone starting out on a new path such as an infant or someone making a career change or between lovers embarking on a new life together. It helps one to start and to continue. Chrysocolla Chrysocolla encourages self-awareness and inner balance, and imparts confidence and sensitivity. It enhances personal power and inspires creativity. It promotes level headedness, encouraging clarity of thought and a neutral, cool attitude during turbulence. It can be used to decrease nervousness and irritability. Also it treats arthritis, bone disease, muscle spasms, the digestive tract, ulcers, blood disorders, and lung problems. Chrysocolla is found in copper mining areas, particularly Chile, the former USSR, and Zaire. Chrysoprase Chrysoprase is used as a shield or protector from negative energy. A small bowl of Chrysoprase kept by the front entrance of the home is a very wise procedure. If used in jewelry, Chrysoprase should only be set in silver and has more power carved in the shape of a heart. Chrysoprase stimulates fluent speech and mental dexterity. It prevents you from speaking in anger without thinking. Cinnabar Cinnabar attracts abundance. It’s helpful when you want to enhance your persona or change your image as it invests a person with dignity and power. Also it heals and purifies blood. It impacts strength and flexibility to the physical body, stabilizes weight, and enhances fertility. Citrine Citrine has been called the "stone of the mind". Ancient cultures believed that placing a citrine on the forehead of an elder would increase his psychic power. Citrine is a powerful cleanser and regenerator, carrying the power of the sun. It stimulates digestion, the spleen, and the pancreas. Citrine is a happy, generous stone and encourages sharing what you have and yet helps you hold on to your wealth. It has the power to impart joy to all who behold it. Using citrine is said to increase your bank balance. Sources of citrine include Brazil, Bolivia, several African countries and parts of the Soviet Union. Coral Coral has been called the 'garden of the sea'. It was once believed to be a plant, but is now known to actually contain living animals called polyps. Records dating back thousands of years confirm that coral was used in decorative art objects. It was believed to prevent ill fortune and offer protection from skin disease when worn as a necklace. Dreams about coral are believed to foretell recovery from a long illness. Ancients believed that Mars was composed of red coral. Coral symbolizes life and blood force energy. Dark red coral is used for heating and stimulating the bloodstream. Pink shades restore harmony to the heart. It is used as an aid to depression, lethargy or deficient nutrition. Diamond The diamond is the hardest gemstone and one of the most valued. It does come in yellows, green and blue, but the clear or white is the most used in jewelry. Most diamonds come from South Africa. Diamonds are the symbol of purity. They bond relationships, bringing love and clarity into a partnership. Also they clear sight, and benefit the brain. Traditionally, they were used to counteract poisons. Care must be used when wearing a Diamond necklace as it can block the energy flow if the wearer has negative thoughts or feelings.  Dioptase Dioptase is a powerful stone to awaken love and compassion and to heal emotional distress. The beautiful green ray of dioptase makes it a heart stone on many levels. Dioptase is a powerful healer for the heart and opener for the higher heart. It teaches that ultimately pain and difficulty in a relationship is a mirroring of an inner separation from the self. It is particularly effective for overcoming addictions and stress. Use it as an elixir for headaches and pain. The best quality dioptase is found in copper deposits in Russia, Namibia, Zaire, Chile, and Arizona. Dolomite Dolomite stimulates the metabolism of calcium and magnesium and keeps a balance between the two. It is used by healers to stabilize health, especially blood, the heart, and circulation. It encourages self-realization. It also fortifies a sense of tradition and helps us acclimate to new communities. It promotes moderation and alleviates negative emotions. Emerald The emerald is the sacred stone of the goddess Venus. It was thought to preserve love. Lucky for love, give your lover an emerald to stay faithful. The Emerald can be a bridge between 2 people. The Emerald vibrates with love. The emerald has long been the symbol of hope. It is considered by many to be the stone of prophecy. The emerald is a stone of inspiration and infinite patience; a life-affirming stone with great integrity. The emerald aids recovery after infectious illness, improves vision and has a detoxifying effect on the liver. Emeralds are one of the most precious gemstones in the world. Epidote Epidote acts as an attraction stone meaning it will bring you more of whatever you emanate, so if you are generous, it will bring it back to you, if you are loving, it will bring you love but if you are mean spirited, it will bring that back to you as well. Even this aspect of epidote can be used wisely by noticing and changing these undesirable traits about oneself. It can teach that: "you reap what you sow". Epidote can be found in Austria, Switzerland, France, Finland, Norway, Italy, Czechoslovakia, Kenya, Madagascar, Australia, Japan, Korea, China, Mexico, and the United States. Fire Agate Fire Agate has a deep calming energy that brings security and safety. It is a protection stone with strong grounding powers. Fire Agate is said to represent absolute perfection and it is said to instill spiritual fortitude. Hold a fire agate to inspire inner knowledge to emerge in the resolution of problems. It also helps in overcoming addictions, and other destructive desires. Fluourite Fluorite has a wide range of colors including yellow, blue, pink purple and green. It is an interesting and beautiful stone because often more than one color occurs in a single stone. Fluorite is said to absorb and neutralize negative vibrations. It makes one more receptive to the vibrations of other stones. Fluorite should be kept in every room of the home. Locations where fluorite is found include Canada, USA, South Africa, Thailand, Peru, Mexico, China, Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Norway, England, and Germany and interestingly, Illinois claims Flourite as its state stone. Garnet The Garnet is known as the stone for a successful business. If your business is not as good as it should be, just put 3 or more garnets on your desk. It is believed that if a garnet is put under a pillow it will cure depression. Garnets can be used to make a person popular and have self-esteem when worn as jewelry. It helps protect one on trips. Garnets bring constancy to friendships. In earlier times, garnets were exchanged as gifts between friends to demonstrate their affection for each other and to insure that they meet again. Garnet's powers include healing, strength, and protection and it is often worn to relieve inflammations of the skin. It is also believed to regulate the heart and blood flow and aid in curing depression.  Gaspeite Gaspeite is a rare, semiprecious gemstone that is the most strikingly beautiful chartreuse to apple green color. If you have never seen it, then you haven’t been shopping in places that sell Native American made jewelry. This unique stone is found in only two places in the world. In 1966, it was discovered in the Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec, Canada, hence the name, Gaspeite. Later it was also found in Western Australia. The Aborigine used gaspeite to bring about good fortune. As a healing stone, it is thought to reduce stress and help with heart, gallbladder and lung problems. It has an excellent healing vibration and will transfer the healing power to the person using it. The energy that Gaspeite brings to your life is a very grounded spiritual energy that encourages you to live life in the real world, yet from a spiritual perspective. Metaphysically, it is thought to bring spirituality into everyday life. This green stone awakens and augments your spirituality and this is particularly the case if you wear it on a day to day basis. Gaspeite is said to aid you to clear clutter and this clutter may be on an emotional or a physical level. If you are attempting to lose weight, and especially if you have been unsuccessful wearing one of these stone may benefit you. Hematite In ancient times it was believed that large deposits of hematite formed on battlegrounds where soldiers were injured and lost blood from their battles. The ancient Egyptians placed hematite objects inside their tombs. Hematite is believed to be a healing and grounding stone, strengthening the body and lessening life's stresses. It is thought to reduce stress and enhance one's personal magnetism. It is also thought to increase optimism and courage and is helpful in transforming negativity. Hematite brings grounding and high energy simultaneously. It promotes the aspiration to your personal goals regardless of what is perceived as acceptable, releasing all judgment. This stone assists in grounding high level spiritual energy to the reality of every day life. Hematite is an excellent stone to keep on your desk to counter the ill effects of your computer on your energy body. Alabama claims Hematite as its' state mineral! Herkimer Diamond The Herkimer Diamond is a double terminated crystal meaning there is a point at each end of the crystal. It is water clear and different from Quartz. It is a very powerful balancer of the body and emotions and should be used carefully. Double terminated equals super power. The Herkimer Diamond energizes, enlivens, and promotes creativity. It attunes people and links them together when they have to be parted but each person should retain one stone. it protects against radioactivity and treats disease caused by contact. The Herkimer Diamond comes from only one place and that is Herkimer, New York. The bedrock in which the crystals are found began forming approximately half a billion years ago in a shallow Cambrian Sea that lapped against the southern shores of the ancestral Adirondack Mountains.  Howlite Howlite can be found in green, white and blue. It is a super-calming stone and many people use it to relieve stress of all kinds. Wear a howlite stone to absorb your own anger, or another's anger that is directed toward you. It helps to overcome critical or selfish behaviour. It makes an excellent antidote to insomnia due to an overactive mind. Howlite stills the mind and is excellent for sleep or meditation. It also balances the calcium levels within the body to aid teeth, bones, and soft tissue. Iron Pyrite Iron Pyrite is a fun stone and is generally referred to as Fools Gold. It is a beautiful gold color. Like real gold it has a lovely luster and its golden shiny appearance is inviting to gaze upon. It provides protection for children and keeps them safe and sound. It also stimulates their imagination. Pyrite helps us to reach our highest potential and to have lots of fun while doing it! Pyrite is said to ward off negative energy and physical danger while boosting your energy levels. Iolite Iolite is a fascinating stone with an interesting past. Ancient mariners used iolite as a compass to guide their way to sea. They noted that it would show different hues of blue violet when held to the northern and southern skies. Ancients believed that it could unlock creativity in an artist. Iolite supports the healing of the eyes, stimulates memory and helps with sleep imbalances. Metaphysically, iolite has been said to increase one's faith and enhance harmony in relationships. Jade Jade is an ancient stone that has historically been used to attract love. In China, when carved into a butterfly, it is a powerful symbol used to draw love. Ancient Chinese legend tells of a youth who wandered into the garden of a wealthy mandarin in pursuit of a multi-colored butterfly. Instead of being punished for trespassing, his visit led to marriage with the mandarin's daughter. Jade is a symbol of purity and serenity and is much prized in the East. It signifies wisdom gathered in tranquility. it is believed to attract good luck and friendship. Jade treats the kidneys and supra-adrenal glands, removes toxins, rebinds cellular and skeletal systems, and heals stitches. Jasper Jasper is one of the oldest known gemstones and comes in many colors. All colors of Jasper will help balance the vibrations of the body. Jasper is known as the "supreme nurturer," as it sustains and supports you during times of stress and brings tranquility and wholeness. Jasper supports the circulatory, digestive, and sexual organs. it balances the mineral content of the body. Jasper gives one the courage to speak out and have personal independence. Jet Jet has been used as a talisman since Stone Age times. When rubbed, Jet gets charged. Jet is a grounding and balancing mineral. Due to the fact that it can accumulate a negative charge, jet is excellent for attracting knowledge and wisdom. Jet's origin can tell you much about this interesting stone; it stems from wood buried under the ground, transformed and fossilized, and as such, jet has access to both ancient knowledge and to the transforming powers of the earth element. Jet helps in balancing the financial aspect of your life, and therefore jet should be kept in the abundance corner of your home. It guards against violence and illness and provides protection during spiritual journeying. Jet treats migraines, epilepsy, and colds. Kunzite kunzite is a very young gemstone that was not even described until 1902 which is about the time that this gemstone was discovered in California. Its hardness is fairly good, between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale, however, this gem is extremely difficult to cut. Kunzite is an extremely spiritual stone with a high vibration. It awakens the heart center and unconditional love, producing loving thoughts and communication. This stone strengthens the circulatory system and the heart muscle. Wear kunzite to be blessed with good fortune. Its soft pastel colors symbolize purity. It can also be a sign of new life and is sometimes regarded as a symbol for pregnancy.  Kyanite Kyanite is an interesting gem that was discovered during the nineteenth century. The most highly prized kyanite is the vibrant blue or blue-green hue. It was once believed that a kyanite stone suspended from a human hair could follow the earth's magnetic force. Early travelers sometimes used it as a compass when exploring unknown territories.Kyanite is a stone of the unconscious mind. It helps us to dream and it is one of only a few stones that never needs cleansing. It can help dispel insomnia. Lapis Lazuli Lapis lazuli is a gemstone of the kind that might have come straight out of the Arabian Nights: a deep blue with golden inclusions of pyrites which shimmer like little stars. Lapis lazuli is an ancient gem, and as such, has a long and storied history. Egyptian cultures made a practice of burying a lapis lazuli scarab with their dead, and believed it to offer protection. The very earliest cultures valued lapis lazuli more highly than gold. Lapis strengthens total awareness, creativity, ESP, skeleton, thyroid and helps to expand viewpoint. It is believed to improve sleep and cure insomnia. The Romans used lapis as an aphrodisiac. During ancient times lapis was ground up and used for medicinal purposes as well as a cosmetic. The ground powder was mixed with milk and used as a compress to relieve ulcers and boils and, during the Middle Ages. Lapis is used to energize the throat chakra and when placed over the brow chakra it induces a heightened state of awareness. It is one of the most powerful stones and should be used with care. Labradorite Labradorite is a multicolored stone that has a "flash" of light called labradorescence. The colors change according to the angle of light refraction and may be green, blue, pink and yellow. The base color of the stone itself is gray. Labradorite is a highly mystical and protective stone. It is a bringer of light. Labradorite banishes fears and insecurities and the psychic debris from previous disappointments. It treats disorders of the eyes and brain, relieves stress, and regulates metabolism. Larimar Larimar is a relatively new find that occurs one place on earth which is the island of Hispaniola, in the Caribbean Sea. Larimar was originally discovered in 1916 but no mining was done. Then, in 1974, it was rediscovered on the beaches of Barahona. Larimar is one of the spiritual stones that open to new dimensions, stimulating evolution f the earth. It radiates love and peace and promotes tranquility. It heals trauma to the heart and reconnects to natural playfulness and joyful childlike energy. Some believe that larimar is the blue stone with extraordinary healing powers that Edgar Cayce predicted would be discovered in the Caribbean, where he said part of Atlantis could be found. The available quantity at the mine is unknown which makes the future supply of Larimar uncertain. Lepidolite Lepidolite is not technically a gemstone, but a very beautiful purplish type of mica. It is referred to by healers as the Peace Stone. Lepidolite clears electromagnetic pollution and should be placed on computers to absorb their emanations. It is useful to reduce stress and depression. Lepidolite enhances standing in your own space, free from the influences of others. It is a calming stone that soothes sleep disturbances and emotional stress, bringing deep emotional healing. Lepidolite is found in Colorado. Malachite Malachite us a powerful stone but one that needs to be handled with caution. Life is lived more intensely under the influence of this adventurous stone. It encourages risk-taking and change. Malachite is a stone that should not be used for physical healing. Malachite has been called the "mirror of the soul". It reaches the inner feelings of the person and reflects what is there, negative or positive. It is so beautiful that one would like to wear it in jewelry, but caution must be used when wearing Malachite. It will always reflect how you feel, if you feel negative don't wear Malachite. To help get rid of nightmares, keep a piece of Malachite in your bedroom. Merlinite Merlinite is a magical stone that holds the imprint of the combined knowledge of shamans, alchemists, magician priests, and other workers of magic. It is can bring magic into your life. Merlinite is used for past-life healing and to bring harmony into the present life. It balances yin-yang and masculine and feminine energies. Merlinite is a combination of quartz and psilomelane found only in New Mexico. Moonstone The moonstone is characterised by an enchanting play of light. Indeed it owes its name to that mysterious shimmer which always looks different when the stone is moved and is known in the trade as 'adularescence'. In earlier times, people believed they could recognise in it the crescent and waning phases of the moon. Moonstone is a stone of new beginnings. It can be worn as a pendant to encourage acceptance of your psychic gifts. Care has to be taken that it does not induce illusions in response to wishful thinking. A Moonstone elixir was traditionally used for insomnia and the stone can prevent sleepwalking. There are two kinds of moonstones. Adularia moonstone is an almost transparent pale gray or silvery white with a blue shimmer. It is mainly found in Sri Lanka, Burma, India and Madagascar. Albite moonstone is in the feldspar group. It is semitransparent with a pale, shimmering reflection. It comes mainly from Canada. This beautiful gemstone does have one weak point, and that is its relatively low hardness of only 6 on the Mohs scale. For that reason, moonstones should be handled with care, for they are sensitive. Moss Agate Moss agate is a multi-shade of green that resembles moss or trees from a distance. Moss agates are considered the most powerful of the agates. It was the agate of warriors. It helps the user to let go of anger and bitterness so that the emotions are balanced. When used in jewelry the moss agate is believed to bring the wearer health, friends and riches and strengthen you in times of stress. Muscovite Muscovite is the commonest form of mica. It is a mystical stone with a strong angelic contract, stimulating awareness of the higher self. Muscovite controls blood sugar, balances pancreatic secretions, alleviates dehydration, and prevents hunger while fasting; and regulates the kidneys as well. Obsidian Obsidian is a molten lava that cooled so quickly it had no time to crystallize. Obsidian was revered by ancient cultures. It was one of the major barter materials, and prized for its ability to be worked to razor-sharp edges for arrows and spears. It has been used since prehistoric times for making tools, masks, weapons, mirrors and jewelry. Obsidian is a stone without boundaries and limitation. It is a strongly protective stone, forming a shield against negativity. Obsidian’s greatest gift is insight into the cause of disease. It aids the digestion of anything that is hard to accept and promotes physical digestion. Use obsidian to help block negativity of any kind. As a black gemstone, it symbolizes self control and resilience. Black stones have protective energies in the sense that black is the absence of light, and therefore, can be used to create invisibility.  Onyx Onyx is strength-giving as it provides support in difficult or confusing circumstances and during time of enormous mental or physical stress. It can help release negative emotions such as sorrow and grief. It is used to end unhappy or bothersome relationships. It aids learning lessons, imparting self-confidence and helping you to be at ease in your surrounding. Onyx is beneficial for teeth, bones, bone marrow, blood disorders, and the feet. Opal Opal is a delicate stone with a fine vibration. It was formed many millions of years ago, when a combination of silica and water flowed into cracks and spaces in the ground. This then gradually hardened and solidified to become opal. Opals contain water, which makes them very sensitive to heat. They are soft and can be cracked or chipped easily. Opals should be stored in moist absorbent cotton. It enhances cosmic consciousness and induces physic and mystical visions. Opal has always been associated with love and passion, desire and eroticism. It brings loyalty, faithfulness, and spontaneity, but may amplify fickleness where the propensity is already present. It treats Parkinson’s disease, infections, and fevers and strengthens memory. Pearl Early Chinese myths told of pearls falling from the sky when dragons fought. Ancient legend says that pearls were thought to be the tears of the gods and the Greeks believed that wearing pearls would promote marital bliss and prevent newlywed women from crying. Over time, the pearl has become the symbol of purity and innocence and it is often sewn into bridal gowns, or worn as jewelry by the bride. Peridot Peridot was believed to keep away evil spirits. It is still the protective stone for the aura. Peridot alleviates jealousy, resentment, spite and anger, and reduces stress. Peridot has a tonic effect. It heals and regenerate tissues. It strengthens the metabolism and benefit’s the skin. Its energy balances bipolar disorders and overcomes hypochondria. Peridot is mentioned in many ancient references as chrysolite. It is mentioned throughout the Bible, and early Christians considered it sacred. Today still, Catholic Bishops traditionally wear a ring of peridot and amethyst as a symbol of purity and morality. Peridot is a gem variety from the olivine mineral group. The bottle green color is called peridot. Yellowish green is chrysolite. Olive green is olivine. Petroskey Stone or Fossilized Coral Petoskey stone is a fossilized coral, the state stone of Michigan and is commonly found along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron in the United States. It was formed by the fossilization of ancient coral, hexagonaria. These corals lived in warm shallow seas that covered Michigan during Devonian time, some 350 million years ago and is indeed Michigan's state stone. Picasso Marble Picasso Marble is said to help with self-control, clarity, and total recall of dreams. Assists in meditation. Protects, nurtures, strengthens. Aids in mind expansion and manifestation of physical and material goals. Stability. Helps to heal viral infection. Pietersite Pietersite is known as the Tempest Stone because of its connection to the storm element. It is said to hold the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Pietersite promotes walking your own truth. It assists in processing ancient conflicts and suppressed feelings. At a subtle level, it clears and energizes the meridian pathway of the body. Prehnite Prehnite is a stone of unconditional love and the crystal is used to heal the healer. It alleviates nightmares, phobias, and deep fears, uncovering and healing the disease that creates them. It is healing for the kidneys and bladder, thymus gland, shoulders, chest, and lungs. It treats gout and blood disorders, repairs the connective tissue in the body and can stabilize malignancy.  Quartz Quartz is the most powerful healing and energy amplifier on the planet because of it unique helical spiral crystalline form. Quartz aids concentration and unlocks memory, a great energy saver. Quartz is a master healer and can be used on any conditions. It stimulates the immune system and brings the body into balance. Red Jasper Red Jasper is a strong protection gemstone known to protect against hazards of the night and is thought to help balance the energy in the body. Red jasper is very lucky for actors.  Rhodochrosite  Rhodochrosite represents selfless love and compassion. It expands consciousness and integrates the spiritual with material energies. It is an excellent stone for the heart and relationships, especially for people who feel unloved. It encourages a positive attitude and enhances dream states and creativity. It purifies the circulatory system and kidneys and restores poor eyesight, normalizes blood pressure and stabilizes the heartbeat, and invigorates the sexual organs. This gemstone is found in Argentina, Mexico, the USA, South Africa, Spain and Romania and Colorado claims Rhodochrosite as its' state mineral. Rhyolite Rhyolite ignites the potential and creativity of the soul. Rhyolite imparts the strengthen to deal calmly with challenging life circumstances and brings awareness of one’s own strength. balancing effect, gently facilitating emotional release where this is appropriate. It treats veins, rashes, skin disorders, and infections, and improves assimilation B vitamins. Rose Quartz Rose Quartz has an amazing healing potential and because of its pink color is particularly healing of the heart. People who meditate with Rose Quartz will appear more attractive to others both romantically and in business situations. Ruby The Ruby is an excellent stone for energy, imparting vigor to life. It energizes and balances but may sometimes overstimulate in delicate or irritable people. This stone is a powerful shield against psychic attack and vampirism of heart energy. It charges up passion and fires that enthusiasm. Ruby overcomes exhaustion and lethargy and imparts potency and vigor. Ruby detoxifies the body, blood and lymph system, and treats fevers, infectious disease, and restricted blood flow. Sapphire The Sapphire is know as the wisdom stone with each color having its own particular wisdom. This stone releases depression and spiritual confusion and stimulates concentration. Sapphire calms overactive body systems and regulates the glands. It heals the eyes, removing impurities and stress. It treats blood disorders and alleviates excessive bleeding, strengthen veins, and improves their elasticity. Sardonyx Sardonyx is a stone of strength and protection. It invokes the search for a meaningful existence and promotes integrity and virtuous conduct. Sardonyx improves perception and aids the processing of information. It heals lungs and bones and resensitizes the sensory organs. Selenite Selenite has a very fine vibration and brings clarity of the mind, opening the crown and higher crown chakras and accessing angelic consciousness and higher guidance. Selenite aligns the spinal column and promotes flexibility. It guards against epileptic seizures. Its finest healing occurs at the energetic levels. Sodalite Sodalite unites logic with intuition and opens spiritual perception, bringing information from the higher mind down to the physical level. This stone brings about emotional balance and calms panic attacks. It enhances self-esteem, self-acceptance and self-trust. Sodalite treats the throat, vocal cords, and larynx and is helpful for hoarseness and digestive disorders. Spectrolite Spectrolite is said to bring forth each person's strengths, originality and aids sleep.  Spinel Spinel is a beautiful crystal connected with energy renewal, encouragement in difficult circumstances, and rejuvenation. Spinel enhances positive aspects of the personality. It aids in achieving and accepting success with humility. Sugilite It is said that sugilite strengthens the heart, aids physical healing and reduces stress. It is a balancer of mind, body and spirit and encourages peace of mind, a general feeling of well being and spiritual love. It is also suggested that sugilite seems to protect against and dissipate anger and other negative energies. Sunstone Sunstone is a joyful, light-inspiring stone. It instills joy and good nature and heightens intuition. If life has lost its sweetness, Sunstone will restore it and help you to nurture yourself. Sunstone acts as an antidepressant and lifts dark moods. Sunstone lifts out heavy or repressed emotions and transmutes them. It stimulates self-healing powers, regulates the autonomic nervous system, and harmonizes all the organs. Tektite Tektite is believed to enhance communications with other worlds and to encourage spiritual growth through absorption and retention of higher knowledge. This stone balances male and female energies within the personality. Tektite reduces fevers, aids the capillaries and circulation. It prevents the transmission of disease. Tiger Eye Tiger Eye lets you see everything. Use it for insight and you can be a very lucky person. When used in jewelry the tiger eye may bring good luck and protection from the evil eye to the wearer. It is also known to bring clear thinking and insight. Tiger Eye combines the earth energy with the energies of the sun to create a high vibrational state that is still grounded, drawing the spiritual energies to the earth. It is one of the most protective stones available. Tiger Eye heals issues of self-worth, self-criticism, and blocked creativity. Also it balances yin-yang and energizes the emotional body. It is helpful for repairing broken bones. Topaz Topaz is a mellow, empathetic stone that directs energy to where it is needed most. It soothes, heals, stimulates, recharges, remotivates, and aligns the meridians of the body. Topaz aids problem-solving and is particularly useful for those engaged in the arts. Topaz is an excellent emotional support as it stabilizes the emotions and makes you receptive to love from every source. Tourmaline Tourmaline cleanses, purifies, and transforms dense energy into a lighter vibration. it grounds spiritual energy, clears and balances all the chakras, and forms a protective shield around the body. It enhances energy flow, making it an excellent stone for healing, energy enhancement, and removal of blockages. Tree Agate Place one of these anywhere that you want to encourage abundance and fullness. Be patient when using dendritic agate. It works slowly and takes time to be effective. Use it to encourage a more centered viewpoint in life. Turquoise Turquoise is a most efficient healer, providing solace for the spirit and well-being for the body. It is a protective stone and has been used for amulets since early time. Turquoise stabilizes mood swings and brings inner calm. It stimulates romantic love. This stone is anti-inflammatory and detoxifying and alleviates cramps and pain. Turquoise is the symbol of friendship and brings peace to the home. Unakite Unakite is a stone of vision. It balances emotions with spirituality. Unakite facilitates rebirthing, bringing to light and integrating insights from the past about the cause of blockages, and gently releasing conditions that inhibit spiritual and psychological growth. It treats the reproductive system, stimulates weight gain where required, and aids healthy pregnancy and the growth of skin tissue and hair. Variscite Variscite is a stone of encouragement. Bringing hope and courage, it is extremely useful for illness and invalids. Variscite facilities moving out of deep despair and into a position of hope and trust in the universe. This stone heals the nervous system, treats abdominal distension and constricted blood flow, and regenerates elasticity of veins and skin. Helpful for male impotence, it also relieves cramps. Zeolite Zeolite is the generic name for a group of crystals that are often found together on a matrix. Zeolite is a Reiki stone that aids attunement to the energies and enhances the response to the healing. Zeolite can be used to treat goiters, to dispel bloating, and to release toxins from the physical body. Zoisite Zoisite transmutes negative energies into positive ones and connects to the spiritual realms. Zoisite is a creative stone, bringing the mind back to its objectives after an interruption. Zoisite is a detoxifier, neutralizing overacidificaton and reducing inflammation. This stone stimulates fertility and heals diseases of the ovaries and testicles.