The Gemstones |
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African Turquoise
'African Turquoise' is not actually true Turquoise at all, but a form of Jasper, which is far more durable. As with all Jaspers, this is an intensely protective stone that offers a slow, steady energy, and is therefore said to be an especially good aid to recuperation.
A solid, stabilising stone, African Turquoise is said to promote courage, and is especially good to help shy or timid people with a difficult confrontation. Legend has it that jasper could protect its wearer from snake and spider bites, and Native Americans traditionally used the stone in rain-making ceremonies.
Agate
A form of chalcedony, Agate comes in a wide range of colours and patterns, though it is most often characterised by distinct bands of colour. Some ancient civilisations believed that the stone could protect them from danger, the Romans believed it would ensure an abundant harvest, while yet others claimed that any person who looked on an Agate would feel a strong obligation to tell the truth.
Agates are considered to be excellent for stabilising the emotions, sharpening the mind and awaking hidden talents. Crystal healers suggest that Agates are particularly useful in helping to combat stress and to promote strength of character. They are also said to aid the wearer in letting go of bitterness and past resentments, encouraging forgiveness.
Borealis Jewellery Design makes use of Blue Lace Agate, Fossilised Agate and Moss Agate.
Amazonite
Amazonite is a member of the feldspar family and is characterised by its pale blue-green colour. Said to help its wearer to find a balance between the right and left sides of the brain, Amazonite combines analytical reasoning with intuitive wisdom - rather than focusing on one or the other - thus assisting its wearer in more effective communication.
Also known as the 'hope stone', Amazonite inspires courage and confidence and improves feelings of self-worth. When facing a difficult conversation or a challenging public-speaking engagement, Amazonite is therefore said to be one of the most beneficial stones to wear or carry.
Amber
Amber is the fossilised form of ancient tree resin, and ranges in colour from dark brown to cream. Known as elektron by ancient Greeks, it becomes electrically charged when rubbed with a cloth. One myth claimed that Amber was formed every time the sun set over the sea: the sun's essence congealed in the cold water and was cast up on shore in the form of drops of Amber.
Because Amber is warm to the touch and sometimes fragrant, it is associated with sensuality and was traditionally used in love charms. Believed to warm the heart and heighten creativity, Amber is also said to increase fertility, especially those gems which contain the fossilised remains of tiny insects.
Amethyst
Used as a royal emblem throughout history because of its deep purple colour, Amethyst was once listed alongside diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald as one of the five most valuable gemstones in existence, until the discovery of extensive deposits in Brazil during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Traditionally used to prevent drunkenness, Amethyst is believed to help protect against all forms of addiction or excess, and is considered to be a deeply spiritual stone. Leonardo da Vinci also claimed that this stone could 'quicken the intelligence', and the ancient Egyptians saw it as the stone of wisdom and clarity of thought. Amethyst was also believed to protect its wearer from thieves.
Apatite
A striking, bright blue-green stone (though it can also come in other colours), Apatite is unfortunately too soft for common use in jewellery as it is inclined to fracture. It can, however, be worn with care in earrings or necklaces. Unusually, in the US, Apatite is used to fertilise tobacco in order to give a distinctive flavour to American cigarettes.
Apatite is said to clear away confusion and help its wearer to see truly. Most particularly, it is said that Apatite can greatly enhance its wearer's capacity for unconditional acceptance both of others and of themselves; some sources claim that even a small piece, if worn constantly, can have dramatic effect.
In addition, Apatite is also said to encourage extroversion and counteract feelings of alienation.
Aquamarine
Characterised by its clear, light blue-green colour, Aquamarine, like Emerald, is a member of the beryl family. Long considered a lucky stone for sailors, and still associated with water and safe travel, Aquamarine is the modern birthstone for March.
Associated with fidelity, truth and happiness, Aquamarine is said to promote feelings of peace and tranquillity, and is considered a powerful meditation stone. Greek soldiers believed this stone would grant them courage. Ancient folklore also claimed that this stone would protect its wearer against malicious gossip.
Arctic Opal
'Arctic Opal' is not actually a form of opal, but a combination of deep blue Azurite and green Malachite, which are two forms of copper-based mineral ores. It is quite soft and fragile, and can be damaged by excessive exposure to heat and water. Over time, it gradually becomes greener as the Azurite weathers into Malachite.
Azurite is associated with intuition and truth, while Malachite is believed to encourage responsibility and fidelity, and to attract wealth to its wearer. Together, the two stones are said to link intuition and prosperity, making this an excellent stone for entrepreneurs.
Aventurine
Aventurine, a form of quartz, is found in shades of blue, green, peach and red-brown, and is characterised by the inclusions of mica or haematite, which give the stone its distinctive sparkle.
Known as the stone of opportunity, Aventurine was traditionally used as a luck talisman. Said to attract abundance and wealth, the stone is also believed to reinforce decision-making capabilities and enhance the leadership potential of its wearer. Crystal healers claim that Aventurine is the best all-round healing stone, and each colour has its own properties.
Borealis Jewellery Design makes use of blue, green, peach and red aventurine.