The Gemstones |
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Carnelian
A form of chalcedony, Carnelian ranges from peach to orange to red, sometimes with faint bands of paler colour. One of the oldest stones known to be used in jewellery, Carnelian was once known as 'sard' and was popular amongst both the Egyptians and the Romans.
Carnelian is considered to stimulate positive emotions - especially passion and joy - though it is also said to protect its wearer against negative emotions like rage and fear. Said to be a great motivator, this stone builds confidence and encourages its wearer to take action to make their goals a reality. It is also said to enhance the memory and to be particularly lucky for actors.
Blue Chalcedony
A form of quartz, the chalcedony family includes agate, jasper, aventurine, onyx, and carnelian; and formerly organic materials such as petrified wood and bone are also made of chalcedony, which has gradually, molecule-by-molecule, replaced the organic matter.
In ancient times, Blue Chalcedony – sometimes known as Blue Quartz – was used as an initiation stone for Egyptian priests, and the stone has been used for centuries as a talisman against depression. It is also said to help its wearer to open up to new ideas, enhancing creativity.
Chalcedony is a porous stone and can be easily stained. If anything is spilled on it (especially coffee!), rinse it immediately in clean water.
Charoite
A rare mineral found only in Siberia, Charoite has an intense grape colour and displays swirling, fibrous patterns that are so unusual it is sometimes mistaken for a synthetic stone. The most valuable pieces exhibit a silky chatoyance similar to Tiger’s Eye, and occasionally have golden, thread-like inclusions. Charoite was only introduced to the outside world in the late 1970s and Russia has strict laws concerning its exportation.
Charoite is considered a stone of transformation, aligning the head and heart to aid in embracing change. In accepting that change is constant and cannot be avoided, the wearer’s mind can be opened to opportunities to grow and gain wisdom. Charoite is also said to counteract the effects of stress caused by turbulent changes in its wearer’s life: overindulgence, excesses of grief or rage, and insomnia.
Chrysocolla
Characterised by its unusual teal-blue colour, Chrysocolla (also known as 'Gem Silica') is a relatively soft stone and a minor ore of copper. Crystal Healers consider this an exceptionally peaceful and tranquil stone, with a far gentler and more gradual effect than some of the more energetic stones.
Chrysocolla is said to soothe damaged emotions, especially heartbreak, and helps to rebuild relationships by encouraging patience and forgiveness (including self-forgiveness). It is also said to subtly build confidence by increasing its wearer's comfort levels during otherwise stressful situations.
Cinnabar
The name 'Cinnabar' comes from the Persian word zinjifrah, meaning 'dragon's blood', which refers to the rich red colour of the stone. A soft stone, it is often used in carving, though care must be taken when cutting it as it is a mercury ore. Cinnabar was also used as a pigment in making ancient illuminated manuscripts like the Book of Kells.
Said to aid its wearer's aspirations, especially in business dealings, Cinnabar is most often associated with financial prowess. However, it is also said to encourage dignity and assertiveness over aggression, and to be a useful aid in unblocking energy channels. Some sources warn that it can also give its wearer a sense of invincibility.
Citrine
Citrine is one of the rarest natural forms of quartz, though it can be produced quite easily by heat-treating Amethyst or Smoky Quartz to generate its characteristic lemon yellow to dark gold colour. Once known as the 'Merchant's Stone', Citrine was often kept in money boxes as it was said to attract wealth and abundance.
An energetic, invigorating stone, Citrine is said to be one of the few stones that never retains negative energy, and is considered excellent for improving self-esteem and bolstering personal power. In ancient times, this stone was carried as a protection against any evil thoughts that might be directed against its wearer.
Coral
Coral is not a stone, but a mineral formed by tiny sea creatures on the ocean floor. Most wild coral reefs are under environmental protection, so most gemstone coral is farmed. It comes in a range of colours, but bright red and rose-pink are the most valuable.
In the ancient Mediterranean, coral branches were used to cast oracles for telling the future. Sailors wear Coral as a talisman against bad weather, and many island cultures use it as a protective amulet to ward off evil.
As an organic material, Coral is quite soft: store it carefully to avoid scratches, and wipe occasionally with a soft, wet cloth (cold water and no soap).