Category: Crystals/Gems

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Diamonds

The Healing Energies, Metaphysical Properties, Legendary Uses and Meaning of Diamond from crystalvaults.com

(April’s birthstone)

Introduction to the Meaning and Uses of Diamond

A legend claims the God of Mines called his courtiers to bring together all the world’s known gems: Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds, etc. etc., and he found them to be of all tints and colors and varying hardnesses. He took one of each and crushed them; he compounded them together, and declared, “Let this be something that will combine the beauty of all.” He spoke, and lo, the Diamond was born…pure as a dewdrop and invincible in hardness. Yet when its ray is resolved in the spectrum, it displays all the colors of the gems from which it was made. [Kunz, 325-326]

Though it is a gem of winter, the color of ice, Diamond is a crystal of Light; its high frequency energy is dispersed into flashing prisms of brilliant “fire” that typifies the sun. It is a spiritual stone, a symbol of perfection and illumination, activating the Crown and Etheric Chakras. It enhances inner vision and stimulates creativity, imagination, and ingenuity, opening the mind to the “new” and “possible.” Placed on the Third Eye, a Diamond encourages psychic development, and is a valuable tool for remote viewing, telepathic communication and clairvoyance. [Kunz, 325][Melody, 243] [Megemont, 78][Ahsian, 135-136]

In addition to its spiritual power, Diamond has an unconquerable hardness and has been known since antiquity as a “Stone of Invincibility,” bringing victory, superior strength, fortitude and courage to its wearer. It is associated with lightning and fearlessness, and for its properties of protection. It is a symbol of wealth and manifesting abundance in one’s life, an amplifier of energies, goals and intent, and is highly effective in magnifying the vibrations of other crystals for healing. It is particularly beneficial set in gold and worn on the left arm. [Kunz, 70-71][Gienger, 33][Fernie, 66, 69][Hall, 122-123]

The Diamond, in its rarity and beauty, is a symbol of purity and innocence, of love and fidelity, and embraces strength of character, ethics, and faithfulness to oneself and others. It is indicative of the loving and open nature with which one came into the physical realm, and encourages the aspect of truth and trust. It is a love-bearing crystal, regarded in antiquity as dependable in its virtues only when received as a gift. Today the engagement ring, wedding ring, and other articles of jewelry symbolize the gift of persons in love. [Gienger, 33][Ahsian, 136][Melody, 243][Kunz, 73][Mella, 84]    

Perfect in structure, Diamond is referred to as the “king of gems,” unique in its powers of light reflection and dispersion, and the hardest natural substance known. Composed of pure carbon, the foundational element of life, it is the one and only “10” on the hardness scale, crystallized deep in the earth’s mantle under intense heat and pressure. Its name is derived from the Greek adamas, meaning “indomitable,” “unbreakable,” or “untamable,” and diaphanus, meaning “transparent.” [www.mindat.org][www.gemdat.org][Fernie, 64-65][Mella, 82][Megemont, 77]

Diamond’s crystal symmetry is cubic, forming in a variety of octahedrons, triangles, cubes and amorphous shapes, and may be transparent, translucent or opaque, with a greasy luster and perfect cleavage. Diamond is most often thought of as colorless, though it also forms in white, black, and various shades of yellow, brown, blue, green, pink, red, champagne-tan, cognac-brown, and very rarely, lilac. While quality Diamonds are carefully cut into gems and used in jewelry, lesser Diamonds are used in industrial applications, especially for cutting and polishing. For metaphysical use, Diamond crystals are preferred to cut Diamonds because the natural shape acts to strengthen and harmonize the energies moving through them. [www.mindat.org][Simmons, 134-135]

Diamond Uses and Purposes

Diamonds are great conductors and amplifiers of energy, absorbing thoughts and feelings then radiating them outward. Remain positive while holding or wearing Diamonds to project empowering thoughts around you and attract a positive reaction from others. They can be useful in the workplace for a congenial atmosphere, or for expanding the field of opportunities in attracting prosperity. Be aware, however, Diamonds increase negative energies as well as positive, and while they never need re-charging, it is a good idea to cleanse their energies from time to time. [Mella, 84][Hall, 122-123][Eason, 136][Simmons, 135]

A Diamond is a symbol of wealth, accumulation and the manifestation of abundance. It is also an ideal stone for the ascetic who has given up on material wealth, choosing it instead as an object for diligent contemplation and deep meditation. The fact it must be cut to reveal its beauty compares to the inner, spiritual beauty of the human being. [Hall, 122][Megemont, 78]

Diamond crystals assist in relieving fear and anxiety, overactive imaginations and hallucinations. It is great for clearing a room before bedtime to prevent nightmares, and may be used to cleanse an area of unwanted entities. [Fernie, 66]

Rough Diamond elixir is marvelous for counteracting exhaustion. Add a few drops in the bath to re-energize. [Eason, 136] Raw crystals are ideal for healing to bring clarity of energy to any part of the body or any level of the energy field. Faceted gems may be used to infuse the aura with full-spectrum Light energy, reflecting all hues and frequencies for strengthening and cleansing. [Ahsian, 136]

According to the German mystic, Hildegard of Bingen, sucking on a Diamond will keep one from lying. It will also fool hunger, making it easier to fast. [Megemont, 78]

Diamond Healing Therapies – Overview

(Please note: Information on this web site is no substitute for consulting a health care professional. All information contained on this web site, including information relating to medical and health conditions, products and treatments, is for informational purposes only. Please see your doctor or health care professional before starting any alternative treatments, diets, supplements or exercise programs.)

Diamond Physical Healing Energy

Diamond is considered a master healer for its ability to unify the mind and body. It is best used as a support stone, amplifying the powers of other minerals when working on specific issues, especially where congestion of energy has caused a physical imbalance. [Eason, 136][Ahsian, 136]

The Diamond is beneficial in purifying and strengthening brain function, nerves and sensory organs. It is thought to aid in balancing the brain hemispheres, and to be good for strokes, epilepsy, and to combat aging of the cells and restoring energy levels. It should be avoided in cases of paranoid psychosis, depressive manias, and obsessive jealousy. [Gienger, 33][Eason, 136][Megemont, 78-79]

Diamonds have been used to cure constipation, urine retention, and in general, all organs concerned with removing waste from the body. Applying a Diamond at the kidneys is reputed to accelerate the evacuation of stones. As the effect will persist after it has been removed, it is recommended to proceed in short sessions of five minutes. [Megemont, 78-79]

Diamond Emotional Healing Energy

While Diamonds do not work directly on the emotional body, their intense energy can amplify the power of any emotional state, from bliss to despair, and should be worn with vigilance. It may even be necessary to remove them if one is in a particularly bad frame of mind. However, Diamonds infuse all levels of the energetic self with Light and may be used therapeutically to intensify and “burn through” underlying emotional issues, allowing one to feel lighter, more joyful, and more aligned with Spirit. [Simmons, 135][Ahsian, 136]

Diamond Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy

Diamond carries a high-frequency energy that stimulates and opens all of the chakras, especially the Crown and Etheric Chakras. [Ahsian, 135]

The Crown Chakra is located at the top of the head, and is our gateway to the expanded universe beyond our bodies. It controls how we think, and how we respond to the world around us. It is the fountainhead of our beliefs and the source of our spirituality. It connects us to the higher planes of existence and is the source of universal energy and truth. When the Crown is in balance, our energies are in balance. We know our place in the universe and see things as they are. We are unruffled by setbacks, knowing they are an essential part of life.

Etheric Chakras are considered to be above the head and are attuned to higher, more spiritually enlightened things. They embody true humility and provide a soul connection, the highest self-illumination, and a cosmic doorway to other worlds. [Hall II, 366] Diamonds in particular identify with the immortal part of the self – personal identification with the Infinite, and oneness with God, peace and wisdom. [Raphell, 159, 164]

Diamond Spiritual Energy

For anyone who has lost their identity or self-worth, is confused, reluctant or unable to step into their spiritual destiny in this life, the Diamond brings a sense of radiance, a loving energy that clears the aura and fills the emptiness with purity and Light. It links with the Divine, and as the evolution and required growth manifests within the heart, it allows the soul’s light to shine out and be shared with others. [Eason, 136][Ahsian, 135][Melody, 243-244][Hall, 123]

Diamond also encourages one to look at the struggles and hardships of life and see if the lessons and growth they’ve provided can be used in a positive way. The Diamond lends strength in dealing with high-pressure situations and assists in responding with grace. It asks us to be a model of fortitude in times of adversity, and helps one understand it is in these difficult times our behavior reveals our true inner beauty and our soul’s knowledge. [Ahsian, 135]

Diamond Color Energy

The clear, colorless Diamond is not influenced by color energy; rather it is a stone of light, an ideal prism, diffusing all the colors of the spectrum.

Diamonds also form in many colors, adding their own unique properties to the energy of the stone. (See Crystal Color Energy under Free Guides)

Meditation with Diamond

Diamond crystals are perfect transducers, allowing the high-frequency vibrational energies of the spirit realms to be more available to the conscious self. Used in meditation, especially when placed on the Third Eye, these crystals facilitate the entry into meaningful visionary states and may heighten one’s psychic powers. Placing a second Diamond over the heart activates the energetic circuit between the two vital centers and influences them to act in synergistic union as Nature intended. [Simmons, 135]

Diamond Divination

The Divinatory meaning of Diamond: Proof of your abilities will come from an unexpected source. [Eason, 136]

Dreaming of Diamonds signifies victory over enemies. [Kunz, 358]

Diamond and the Angelic Realm

Diamonds often carry the energies of angelic beings that are aligned with courage and Light, and inspire us to bravely express our most sacred self. [Ahsian, 136] If your birthday falls in any of the following periods, a colorless Diamond can be a valuable conduit to your Guardian Angel. The table also provides the name of the Guardian Angel of those born in the time period.

Date/Name of Guardian Angel

May 6-10 Aladiah
August 13-17 Reiiel (Rejajel)
December 3-7 Hahasiah

There are other Angels that are partial to Diamonds. The table below gives you the information about them.

Purpose/Name of Angel

Protector and Ruler of the dates May 6-10; Taurus. Aladiah
Guardian of the Eighteenth Mansion of the Moon; Scorpio. Egibiel
Protector and Ruler of the dates December 3-7; Sagittarius. Hahasiah
Master of the 9th Tarot Card “The Hermit”. Associated with Virgo. Hamaliel
Guardian of the Twentieth Mansion of the Moon; Sagittarius. Kyriel
Matariel is the Ruler of Earth/Rain. Matariel
Raziel is known as the Wisdom Angel; Tree of Life, and Heals Spiritual Blocks. Raziel
Protector and Ruler of the dates August 13-17; Leo. Reiiel (Rejajel)
Master of the 16th Tarot Card “The Tower”. Zamael

Diamond Goddess Crystals

Diamonds honor Angerona, the Roman Goddess of Silence, and the Goddess of the Winter Solstice. She is not only the protector of secrets, but brings the birth of the New Year.

Clear crystals may also be used to honor Kundalini, the Hindu Life Force Goddess; and Latona, the Roman Goddess of Light.

Diamond Talismans and Amulets

The Diamond has been used since antiquity as a talisman against cowardice, and is traditionally worn against the skin for courage and to enhance invulnerability. It rallies strength with age, and brings emotional and intellectual confidence. [Melody, 243][Eason, 136]

Diamond is an Enhancer Purifier crystal. Enhancers have internal crystal lattices of perfect cubic symmetry and internal harmony. As “building block” talismans, their internal structure helps focus our efforts to build on our successes and enhance our lives. They concentrate our energy on the improvements we desire and thought patterns that will produce the actions needed to bring them about.

Purifiers are the natural elements of nature. Only a few, such as gold, silver, copper, sulfur and carbon (as Diamond) are found in a pure state and are suitable as talismans. They carry the earth power to assist our efforts in accomplishing goals where a higher purpose transcends our own personal needs. They promote truth and honor, patience and courage, and protecting innocence. They inspire spiritual growth and aid in our quests to remain faithful to a partner or an ideal.

Diamond Feng Shui

Diamond crystals are perfect “energy dispersers” in any window. As a natural prism, they take light and energy from the sun and disperse it freely within the room. They offer an indoor sun world for warmth, strength and vitality.

Diamond in Ancient Lore and Legend …

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April 1, 2023 Moon Goddess Current Phase

You can use this link to go forward or backward in time for Moon phase information. If you are curious, you can even find out what phase the Moon was in when you or anyone else was born.

From MoonGiant.com

Moon Phase for today: Apr 01, 2023

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waxing Gibbous phase. Visible through most of the night sky setting a few hours before sunrise. This phase is when the moon is more than 50% illuminated but not yet a Full Moon. The phase lasts about 7 days with the moon becoming more illuminated each day until the Full Moon. During a Waxing Gibbous the moon rises in the east in mid-afternoon and is high in the eastern sky at sunset. The word Gibbous first appeared in the 14th century and has its roots in the Latin word “gibbosus” meaning humpbacked.

Visit the April 2023 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waxing Gibbous Phase

The Waxing Gibbous on April 1 has an illumination of 80%. This is the percentage of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The illumination is constantly changing and can vary up to 10% a day. On April 1 the Moon is 10.41 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Phase Details

Phase: Waxing Gibbous
Illumination: 80%
Moon Age: 10.41 days
Moon Angle: 0.49
Moon Distance: 405,196.72 km
Sun Angle: 0.53
Sun Distance: 149,509,390.21 km

The 8 Lunar Phases

There are 8 lunar phases the Moon goes through in its 29.53 days lunar cycle. The 4 major Moon phases are Full Moon, New Moon, First Quarter and Last Quarter. Between these major phases, there are 4 minor ones: the Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous and Waning Crescent. For more info on the Moon Cycle and on each phase check out Wikipedia Lunar Phase page.

Useful Moon Resources

Check the weather before a night of Moon gazing at weather.com

For a list of all the current meteor showers visit American Meteor Society

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Smoky Quartz

What To Know About Smoky Quartz, From Its Properties To How To Work With It from mindbodygreen.com

Quartz is one of the most popular crystals out thereut we would be remiss not to spotlight one of its unique varieties: smoky quartz. Here’s why this stone shouldn’t be overlooked, from its benefits to how to work with it, according to crystal experts.

What is smoky quartz?

Smoky quartz is a specific variety of the crystalline mineral quartz. As Ashley Leavy, founder and educational director of the Love and Light School of Crystal Therapy, explains to mindbodygreen, as quartz hardens and crystallizes, small particles of different elements can get trapped inside. So in the case of smoky quartz, those elements are trace amounts of lithium and aluminum, which create this stone’s telltale “smoky” appearance.

According to Leavy, smoky quartz is commonly found in places like Brazil, parts of Africa, Scotland, and the state of Colorado. It’s actually the national gem of Scotland, with “Cairngorm” quartz, from the Cairngorm mountains of Scotland, being particularly sought after.

“Some ancient Celtic people used it for personal adornment and jewelry, as well as in ceremonial pieces like weapons,” she says. And as spiritual health expert and meditation teacher Kara Ladd previously wrote for mbg, “It was the Druid’s first choice in sacred ceremonies and rituals [and was] believed to guide souls to the afterlife and keep evil spirits away.”

In general, Leavy says that smoky quartz is terribly underrated and really shouldn’t be. “A lot of people aren’t drawn to it because it’s not seemingly pretty on the surface—and I think smoky quartz just doesn’t get the attention it deserves because it’s pretty amazing,” she notes.

Healing properties:

It’s a grounding stone.

Like many of the other dark-colored crystals out there, smoky quartz is known to be incredibly grounding, which ripples out into a host of other benefits.

Leavy tells mindbodygreen that smoky quartz can keep you grounded if you’re doing spiritual work or meditating, encourage a deeper connection to the Earth, support feelings of peace and calm, and even help you work through personal fears. “Because of that grounding quality, it’s amazing how much we’re able to do better and more easily when we’re really well grounded,” she adds.

It’s protective.

Smoky quartz is also one of the best healing crystals for protection, as it can act as a shield against unwanted negative energy, crystal expert and co-founder of Energy Muse Heather Askinosie previously wrote for mbg. Energetically speaking, removing this old energy can help clear space for new and more positive energy to flutter in, she notes.

To that end, Leavy adds that if you’re a person who is sensitive to the energy of other people, or you’re simply feeling a little tender and need extra energetic shielding and protection, “then smoky quartz is a great companion to have in your pocket.”

It reignites your passion.

Smoky quartz can also help you reignite your passion when you’re feeling stuck or stagnant. As Leavy tells mindbodygreen, “If you feel a little disconnected from things that you once felt really passionate about, smoky quartz can offer a good boost to help get you reconnected with those things.”

How to use smoky quartz:

Meditate with it.

One simple way to work with smoky quartz is to meditate with it. As Askinosie notes, “Meditating while holding this crystal in your hand can help you identify and let go of stale, sticky patterns and beliefs that are holding you back.”

Balance your root chakra.

Being a particularly grounding stone, smoky quartz is connected to the root chakra and is an excellent stone to work with if you’re looking to recalibrate your root. “Smoky quartz supports the root (or Earth) chakra, supporting grounded energy and protection in the present moment,” Ladd previously wrote for mindbodygreen.

Keep some around your home.

Having some smoky quartz around your home is a great way to keep its grounding and protective energy present. Leavy, for example, recommends keeping some in your bedroom to create a protective shield while you sleep. And as Askinosie previously wrote for mindbodygreen, “Every now and then, depending on the energy of the space, I also like to add smoky quartz to my kids’ bedrooms to stabilize and absorb any unwanted energy.”

Use it in a ritual bath.

Next time you want to tap into inner peace and calm, consider adding some smoky quartz to a ritual bath. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need, from spiritual expert and author of Ritual Baths Deborah Hanekamp:

Ingredients

1 cup Epsom salt for cleansing your spirit and relaxing your body

1 pot rose, oat straw, skullcap, meadowsweet, and lemon balm tea (set aside a cup of this magical brew to sip while you are in the bath)

10 drops lavender essential oil

10 drops rose absolute essential oil

1 smoky quartz crystal

Ritual:

  1. Light a candle and turn off artificial light.
  2. Put on some relaxing music.
  3. Cleanse your aura with a selenite wand.
  4. Step into the bath and dunk your head under the water.
  5. Allow only your nose to come up for air, but keep your eyes, ears, and mouth underwater.
  6. Breathe deep and slow.
  7. Imagine you are rebirthing yourself, releasing who you used to be, and stepping into who you are meant to be.
  8. Come up into a relaxed bathing position.
  9. Place the smoky quartz on your chest where you feel tight and heavy; imagine yourself letting the crystal clear for you all your worry.
  10. Sit and soak in the medicine of being your own healer.

Use it during shadow work.

According to crystal expert Yulia Van Doren of Goldirocks, smoky quartz can be a great companion as you’re doing shadow work. It’s certainly not easy to confront the darkest depths of yourself, but smoky quartz can offer gentle protection, grounding, and shielding as you learn to integrate your shadow.

Practice divination with it.

Leavy notes that if you’re into divination of any kind, whether it be tarot or oracle cards, pendulum work, astral travel, or scrying, smoky quartz is helpful in giving you proper insight and enhancing your accuracy. “And again, I think that comes from the grounding,” she adds.

7.

Use it as you’re manifesting.

And last but not least, smoky quartz is a great crystal to have on hand if you’re doing any sort of manifesting practices. “Because of that grounding and connection to the physical, it helps you tap into things in the physical plane, like your career, wealth, and abundance and prosperity,” Leavy says, adding, “And it’s helpful for focus, particularly when you’re dealing with managing really detailed projects.”

In combination with other crystals.

According to both Askinosie and Leavy, smoky quartz pairs well with mookaite jasper, or red jasper, especially when you want to let go of something.

Smoky quartz is also known to grow alongside the crystal amazonite in Colorado, which Leavy says makes these two excellent companions.

And if you’re working with smoky quartz to balance your root chakra, other stones that support the root would be great additions too, such as black tourmaline or hematite.

Cleansing and charging your smoky quartz.

Quartz and its varieties are typically pretty durable, so the good news is, any of your go-to cleansing methods will work just fine. You could charge it under the full moon, cleanse it with water, smoke, or sound, or even clear it with a different clearing crystal, like clear quartz or selenite.

Leavy does note to be mindful if you’re working with a rougher piece of smoky quartz so you don’t chip any tips off the cluster.

Check out our full guide to charging crystals for more methods of charging that you might prefer.

FAQ

Is smoky quartz associated with any birth months or zodiac signs?

Smoky quartz is not associated with any particular birth months, but according to Leavy, it is one of the traditional birthstones for Scorpio. “It’s also good for the zodiac signs of Capricorn, Taurus, and Virgo, because of its connection with the earth element,” she adds.

Is smoky quartz associated with any particular chakras?

Yes, smoky quartz is associated with the root chakra.

Is smoky quartz a good crystal to sleep with?

Yes, smoky quartz is grounding and protective, making it a great stone to keep in your bedroom, whether on your nightstand or under your pillow.

How should smoky quartz be worn as jewelry?

There’s no wrong way to wear smoky quartz, but Leavy says wearing it as a necklace or pendant could be particularly helpful if you want more help with communication.

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Dragon Stone

Natural Dragon Stone

Dragon Stone Polished

Dragon Blood Jasper: Meaning, Properties, Uses & More!

Dragon Blood Jasper is a stunning stone that has a number of interesting healing properties. Used for ages, the strength of this stone cannot be missed.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about the meaning, properties, and potential benefits of Dragon Blood Jasper. This stone is one of our favorites!

Table of contents

History & Overview

Meaning

Healing Properties & Benefits

Metaphysical Properties

How To Use It

Crystals & Stones To Pair With It

Zodiac Connection

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Unicorn Crystals: 7 Gems Attuned to Their Realm

Unicorn Crystals: 7 Gems Attuned to Their Realm from llewellyn.com

Readers, please enjoy this guest blog post by Tess Whitehurst, author of a number of books, including Magical Housekeeping, You Are Magical, and the new Unicorn Magic.

Both crystals and unicorns are of the earth, and both also transcend the earthly plane to align us with the Otherworld, the realm of Faerie, and the eternal consciousness of Spirit. But some crystals are particularly aligned with unicorn energy, making them uniquely relevant to those of us drawn to the magic and wonder of the unicorn realm.

Here are 7 gemstones that will help you attune to the purifying, healing, and courage-inspiring realm of the unicorns.

Amethyst Amethyst is a purple-colored quartz with a soothing and spiritual vibration. It’s calming and stress-relieving and supports a deep and restful night’s sleep. Amethyst also helps heal addictions and addictive behaviors. Like unicorns, amethyst is aligned with the crown chakra, which opens up our connection the the realm of dreams and the Divine.
Apophyllite Apophyllite is a starlight-colored, bright, clear-white stone that often appears as a tiny little luminous pyramid. When you meditate with it, it can help you enter into other worlds and dimensions, including the fairy, unicorn, astral, and angelic realms.
Aquamarine Aquamarine is reminiscent of pale blue tropical oceans and pristine alpine streams. It purifies mind, body, and spirit, and helps relieve any sense of uncleanliness or toxicity. This mirrors the unicorn’s fabled ability to instantly and completely transform any poison or noxious pond into sparkling, clear, drinkable water.
Larimar Larimar is an opaque, vibrantly aqua-toned stone that looks like the brightest blue sky after its been purified by a heavy rain or strong wind. Simply glimpsing a larimar can infuse you with deep and abiding joy. Quite like a unicorn sighting, larimar helps bring back our joy when it seems to be lost. It also reminds us to prioritize joy every day, and to spread it to everyone we meet.
Lepidolite Lepidolite is a sparkly, lavender-hued stone that is perhaps the answer to the question, if a unicorn were a crystal, what would it be? Like unicorns, lepidolite reminds us to love freely, purely, and deeply. It also attunes us to the inner knowing that we are lovable, adorable, and deserving of every wonderful thing. Carrying or wearing it helps us draw true love and lasting friendship.
Peridot Peridot is a pale, grass-green crystal. It’s as serene and comforting as a late summer day. Unicorns are perfectly harmonized with the magic and wisdom of herbs, flowers, trees, and the seasons, and peridot helps us harmonize with these things in a similar way. It also helps strengthen physical and emotional health, healthy habits, and feelings of grounding, inspiration, and interconnection.
Druzy Clusters Spirit quartz, also known as drusy, is a quartz covered with lots of smaller crystal points, resulting in a breathtaking, sparkling effect. It appears in clear, amethyst, aqua aura, and angel aura varieties, and all can help foster a harmonious sense of community and interconnection. Additionally, just like unicorns, spirit quartz boosts energy, creativity, inspiration, wonder, vitality, and joy.

To work with one of these crystals in order to gain greater access to the wisdom and healing power of unicorns, first cleanse it in sunlight and/or running water. Then hold it in your right hand and set the intention to align with unicorn consciousness and to open up to the magic of the realm. Next, carry it, wear it, sleep with it under your pillow, or place it on your altar. You can even create an altar specifically for the purpose, by placing an attractive image of a unicorn as a focal point, along with any other altar items you may like to include such as candles, flowers, or offerings (hint: unicorns like cinnamon sticks, apples, and sweet-smelling flowers).

Did you work with any of these crystals to attune your energy to the realm of the unicorns? Or do you plan to? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Bloodstone

Disclaimer: This stone it not meant to be used instead your health care professional but can be a compliment to with your health care professional prescribes. WitchesofTheCraft.com, any staff member of WitchesofTheCraft.com, and Lady Carla Beltane are not responsible for any type of a negative reaction when using this stone for any reason.

From thecrystalcouncil.com

Chakras

Root

Properties

Strength
Protection
Courage
Confidence
Purification
Cleansing
Altruism
Consciousness
Action
Motivation

Planets

Mars

Zodiacs

Aries
Libra
Pisces

Elements

Earth

Colors

Green
Red

Science & Origin of Bloodstone

Bloodstone, also known as Heliotrope or Piedra Del Sol, is an opaque cryptocrystalline Quartz and member of the Chalcedony family. The green color found within this stone is caused by tiny inclusions of Chlorite and Pyroxene, while the red is small concentrated areas of iron oxide minerals, most commonly Hematite. The word Heliotrope derives from the Greek word meaning “to turn the sun”. In today’s age, the most abundant deposits of Bloodstone are found in India, China, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the United States.

Indian Aphrodisiac

In Indian culture, Bloodstone is considered an aphrodisiac. Within the culture, Bloodstone would be ground up into a fine powder and sold for a high price. The price of this ground-up powder would oftentimes even be sold for a higher price than the raw Bloodstone material. This makes top-quality Bloodstone that much more valuable.

Historical Uses

Bloodstone has been revered through different cultures and history. The red spots were said to be a representation of Christ’s blood and thus used as an amulet for Christianity. It was often used to check for blood hemorrhages. It is said that the famous Italian painter Giorgio Vasari was afflicted by a violent hemorrhage and a piece of bloodstone was placed between his shoulder blades to stop the ailment. When this stone is placed into water it will add a reddish hue that will be intensified when the sun’s rays hit it. Ancient cultures believed that it was able to turn the sun itself, blood red.

Leyden Papyrus

The Leyden Papyrus, written in Greek at the end of the 3rd century A.D. states that Bloodstone will give the wearer whatever he may ask for and “whatever thou wearer says, he will be believed. Whoever bears this stone, which is a gem, and pronounces the name engraved upon it, will find all doors open, while bonds and stone walls will rent asunder”. – Kropatchek, 1907

Meaning & Energy

Bloodstone activates our inner strength, willpower, and courage that has been masked by fear. This crystal is a purifier of our negative energies and aids to convert these thoughts and feelings into positive ones. Bloodstone helps break the mold of our endless monotonous cycles by helping us aspirate to who we truly want to be. This crystal is a reminder that the only judge of our thoughts and actions should be no one other than ourselves. The direction you choose to go in this life will only be decided by you. Heliotrope provides us with the necessary confidence and fortitude to move past hard times and see the growth ahead.

Great Affirmation Tool

Bloodstone is a thought-provoking amulet that aids in the process of manifesting our subconscious ideas into reality. These thoughts and emotions have been vastly hidden from the open-world due to their true power and our own insecurities. Trusting in our intuition and allowing it to be channeled through experiences and moments will only lead us onto the path of revolution.

Bloodstone – The Powerful Healer from wiccanow.com

Disclaimer for this website. The content provided on this is website is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.

Bloodstone is also know as Helioptrope or blood jasper.

Hi and welcome to Wicca Now. As you may already know, Wicca Now is a site where Amaria and I write about all things Witchcraft, Wicca and Magick. Lately, we’ve been covering a lot of crystal related topics, like this post on crystal witchcraft, this guide to crystal correspondences or this article on jasper. Today I thought we’d focus on another beautiful crystal, namely bloodstone.

About Bloodstone

Bloodstone is readily available and found throughout Australia, Brazil, China, the Czech Republic, Russia and India. The use of bloodstone dates to the prehistoric people of Scotland who used the stone to shape arrowheads, blades and scrapers. The Ancient Greeks believed that bloodstone could turn red from the suns rays, hence naming it heliotrope which comes from the Greek helios and tropos meaning ‘sun turner’. The stone was used throughout Ancient Greece and Rome to fashion a wide variety of decorative objects from jewellery to seal stones. Throughout the Middle Ages bloodstone was understood as a powerful healing stone and it was believed to give the wearer the gift of prophecy. The stone itself is multicoloured green or bluish-green with flecks of red. It can range from translucent to opaque and has a waxy lustre.

Bloodstone Magickal Benefits and Meaning

Bloodstone is believed to possess powerful healing properties. It is a stone of guidance, intuition and divination.

Attracts luck, money and success

Bolsters strength

Reduces aggression

Boosts the power of spells

Boosts the power of other crystals

Boosts confidence

A deeply spiritual stone

Aids healing

Enhances faith

Excellent for grounding

Keeps out undesirable influences

Helps us to avoid dangerous situations

Stimulates dreaming

Powerfully revitalising

Assists in connecting with the present moment

Revitalises and rejuvenates the body

Stimulates the mind

Dispels confusion

Elemental Correspondences

It is associated with the element of fire and the goddesses Morrigan and Badb

Astrological Influence

It’s astrological influence comes from Mars. Bloodstones zodiac correspondences are Aries, Capricorn, Libra, Pisces and Scorpio.

Magickal Tips for Bloodstone

  • To aid sleep, place a piece of bloodstone into a bowl of water and keep this …

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Sapphire

Sapphire

Keywords: Spiritual Insight, Self-Appreciation, Good Fortune, Creative Expression, Wisdom, Kindness, Spiritual Development, Loyalty, Wise Judgment, Love.

Sapphire is called the “Stone of Destiny”. It is also the symbol of heaven and joyful devotion to God. Some believe this is where we got the term: “True Blue.”

As a symbol of truth, sincerity and faithfulness, it likewise makes an excellent choice for an engagement ring.

Sapphire contributes to mental clarity and perception. This stone lets go of depression and spiritual confusion and also stimulates concentration. It can promote financial rewards, prosperity and bring forth gifts of all kinds.

Sapphire is recognised as a “Wisdom Stone”. It draws protection and prophetic wisdom. It will attract and oversee one’s divine destiny in life, instilling hope, faith and joy during the journey.

Opens the mind to beauty and intuition, as well as bringing with it the hope of fulfilling your dreams and the desires of your heart. Sapphire can focus healing, loving energy upon anyone needing it.

Placed on the throat, Sapphire helps to release frustration and aids self-expression.

Sapphire normalises overactive body systems and regulates the glands. It will cure a sore throat, and heal the eyes. Treats blood disorders; also alleviates excessive bleeding. Also strengthening veins and improving their elasticity.

THESE CURATED CRYSTALS WILL HELP YOU BLOOM ALONG WITH THE SEASON c. 2019

THESE CURATED CRYSTALS WILL HELP YOU BLOOM ALONG WITH THE SEASON

  • MARCH 19, 2019
  • OLIVIA PEPPER

Our monthly Crystalscopes pair each zodiac sign with a crystal whose energies can support us through the coming month’s transits. We choose crystals that are accessible and widely available; you may see the same stone pop up from month to month as a medicine for a different sign—consider it an invitation to use your toolkit!

Also consider low-impact methods like using gem essences and elixirs, buying used crystals, or starting a crystal share with friends. Real magic can only be accomplished by acknowledging our impact on the world around us.

Read these for your sun, moon, and rising signs to learn what you should wear, carry, or place on an altar to help boost your specific astrology for the month. These also work as remediations for specific houses in your natal chart. This month’s crystals are specially selected to maximize Venus’ transit of Pisces and the double Libra full moons we get this year.

 

APRIL 2019 CRYSTALSCOPES

 

ARIES

SMOKY QUARTZ

Happy birthday, April Aries! This month is action-packed for Aries, with the sun, Mercury, and Venus all spending time in the sign of the ram—along with Chiron, whose presence we’re still just getting used to. Unfortunately, Aries may feel a little thin-skinned this month, with sensitivities exceptionally high, especially around the full moon. Smoky quartz is a traditional gemstone ally to aid in conditional invisibility, or in sneaking in under the radar, where desired. It is a great month for Aries to adjust energetic boundaries, and smoky quartz makes a great assistant in doing so. Wear a smoky quartz ring or a necklace to help suss out the right social situations and have a fantastic solar return.

 

TAURUS

ROSE QUARTZ

Happy birthday to first decan Tauruses! The sun and Uranus will be conjunct in Taurus on April 23, and this is an ideal month to let the bulls of the zodiac roam free. An underappreciated aspect of Taurus’ famous stubbornness is a wholehearted commitment to personal freedom that can sometimes be quite iconoclastic and unconventional. Uranus in Taurus will certainly amplify this quality, and here in its first degrees and its conjunction with the sun, it opens up all kinds of giddy opportunities for more complete and holistic self-love. Try a birthday bath with a rose quartz companion and an affirmation on your mirror designed to help you embrace radical new concepts of beauty.

 

GEMINI

BLUE LACE AGATE

Mars lights up your corner of the sky this month. Ambition, sex appeal, and vitality can all soar—Gemini is practically hot to the touch this month! While a welcome boost, this energy can also feel like a little much, especially with so much mutable energy abounding in the cosmic sphere. Soothing, beautiful lace agate, especially worn at the throat, aids the twins in keeping things proportional, so you can avoid having your mouth write checks your body can’t cash.

 

CANCER

GARNET

Between the sun squaring your sign and Saturn and Pluto opposing it, Cancer may be feeling a bit, well…crabby. April is rife with potential annoyances, hindrances, and challenges, but they are not without merit. Long-term investment, loyalty, and commitment are needed to clarify plans and desires—luckily Cancer excels at showing up. Garnet was carried into battle by ancient warriors to remind them what they fought for; carried in your pocket or worn as a talisman, it can remind you too!

 

LEO

BLACK ONYX

Trines with the sun, Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter are undeniably exhilarating. April offers Leo prosperous opportunities and a chance to shine. With many different options to choose from, it will be necessary to practice your best diplomacy skills and perhaps even evade a bit of jealous critique. Black Onyx was a go-to for ancient Greek philosophers who wished to keep their interpersonal debates in the forum and prevent drama from spilling into everyday life. Particularly if you’re engaged in casual dating or a competitive professional sphere, Leo may want to call in some backup with regal, potent black onyx.

 

VIRGO

AMETHYST

Virgo is probably feeling a little fried at this point. Ever the workaholic, Virgo may have gone a little hard in March and are now finding themselves in need of respite. Abundant mutable energy continues to swirl around us, and the seemingly never-ending Piscesinfluence drags particularly hard on Virgo. It has been a necessary and transformative gauntlet, but as the Pisces party draws to a close and Mercury and Venus transit to new signs mid-month, Virgo needs to power through and rebalance. An ancient remedy for drunkenness (literally: it was dropped in wine glasses at the end of parties in hopes of mitigating intoxication), amethyst helps Virgos use spiritual reflection to stay in equilibrium. Wear earrings or a barrette to maximize this childhood favorite’s effects on your poor, addled mind.

 

LIBRA

CAT’S EYE

With this second powerhouse full moon, Libra is gifted an opportunity to envision and manifest whatever you most desire. There is no limit to what Libra can envision and dream up this month; opposing Aries energies and squares from the nodes and Saturn and Pluto do create tension, but hopefully, this energy can be harnessed and used to boost Libra’s ability to go big. Indecisiveness is often a factor for the scale-bearers, but gorgeous and enchanting cat’s eye chrysoberyl is traditionally used to cut to the heart of anything that is convoluted or unclear. Libra can particularly benefit from clear vision because this month’s full moon work is almost guaranteed to come to fruition, so we want our requests to ring clear as a bell.

 

SCORPIO

LAPIS LAZULI

This month will likely be filled with some profound intrigues for Scorpio. Mercury, Venus, and Neptune all spend some time in Pisces, and alongside the north node in Cancer, create some powerful depth magic for the fixed water sign. It is more possible than ever for Scorpio to truly dive deep into emotional processing, intimate communication, and the claiming of power. Lapis lazuli was the stone of the priest class in ancient Egypt, ensuring right use of authority and integrity in leadership. Scorpio’s potency is off the charts this month and lapis lazuli is an uncompromising co-ruler.

 

SAGITTARIUS

IOLITE

Riding the waves of mutability this month, Sagittarius is invited to shoot for the stars—but for real this time. Less talk, more walk. A certain amount of tender realism and staunch determination will stabilize the centaur’s most extravagant daydreams in April. Very big things are possible for Sagittarius this month but must arrive in combination with deep faith and profound honesty with the self—dispelling illusion is a must. Enter iolite. This beautiful purple-gray stone of spiritual awareness and truthful awakening is an ideal companion for Sagittarius this month, cementing even very extravagant plans to ensure future success. Try incorporating iolite into a daily prayer practice and watch your wildest dreams come true.

 

CAPRICORN

GOLDEN CALCITE

Capricorn is undergoing such a powerful renovation over the next few years, what with Saturn ensconced at home and Pluto decamped in the sign of the enigmatic sea-goat. April provides a gorgeous opportunity for Capricorn to boost self-regard, especially where it comes to the axis of deserving/undeserving. Stimulating the solar plexus is ideal here, as well as encouraging the notoriously serious sea-goat to lighten up a bit. Golden calcite is pure laughter—recommended use is resting the stone on your solar plexus while meditating on the theme that you deserve abundance and goodness. If you live in a state where it is legal, and you partake, then by all means enhance the giggles with a little herbal support.

 

AQUARIUS

BLOODSTONE

Aquarius has undergone a major healing journey over the last eighteen months, and the road ahead is finally opening. Significant change is afoot, but there may be a few final spasms of discomfort to overcome, especially with tense squares from the sun and Uranus late in the month. Bloodstone has long been associated with overcoming suffering, transcending pain, and learning from our particular tragedies. Wearing or carrying bloodstone this month will help the water-bearers achieve their apex identity: that of one who has triumphed over adversity, one who has survived against all odds.

 

PISCES

SAPPHIRE

Usually, sapphire is associated with Pisces’ sister sign of Virgo, but this time we’re calling it in here. Mercury’s unusually long stay in your sign this year, combined with Venus’ scintillating exalted visit and Neptune’s long and lush home game, greatly amps up the potential for increased self-knowledge. Sapphires come in every color of the rainbow, and the diversity available in this stone should serve as inspiration for Pisces dreamers the world over. Wearing a sapphire provides a boost to self-confidence that can allow you to showcase your very specific self and amplify your 12th house gifts of magic, mystery, and playful mayhem.

 

Published On Astrology.com

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Rose Quartz c. 2011

Rose Quartz

This crystal, one of the most valued quartz varieties, is renowned for its delicate pink tone. The impurities of titanium or manganese that give it this hue also prevent the growth of large individual crystals, which means it is usually found in massive form. Most rose quartz these days comes from Brazil but there also sources in India, Madagascar and the USA. In healing work, the stone encourages the heart to open, bringing more trust and love into our lives.

Identification and care

  • Large, single rose quartz points have been shaped from larger rough pieces.
  • Unpolished rose quartz has sharp edges.
  • “Lavender” quartz is rose quartz with a ting of violet.
  • Most pieces of rose quartz are translucent with many fractures; gemstones are flawless and transparent
  • Star rose quartz containing rutile crystals has asterisms (star effects), which can be seen when light reflects off the polished surface.

Magick

  • Fosters an appreciation of beauty
  • Inspires feeling of love and friendship

Healing Functions

  • Rapidly releases emotional stress – the effect is so intense that it can be uncomfortable (to avoid this, balance with grounding stones)
  • Uncovers the underlying causes of other problems, such as a negative self-image

Practical Ideas

  • To release emotional stress, place tiger’s eye at the sacral chakra grounding stones by the feet and rose quartz at the heart, surrounded by four clear quartz (points out).
  • For self-worth and nurturing, place 12 rose quartz evenly around the body. The effect of the experience is amplified if you lie on a pink or magenta cloth.

 

Crystal of the Day – Apache Tears c. 2019

Crystal of the Day

 

Apache Tears

Apache tears are rounded nodules of obsidian (volcanic black glass) with diameter from about 0.5 to 5 cm. An Apache tear looks opaque by reflected light, but translucent when held up to light. Apache tears are usually black, but can range from black to red to brown. They are often found embedded in a greyish-white perlite matrix.

The name “Apache tear” comes from a legend of the Apache tribe: about 75 Apaches and the US Cavalry fought on a mountain overlooking what is now Superior, Arizona in the 1870s. Facing defeat, the outnumbered Apache warriors rode their horses off the mountain to their deaths rather than be killed. The wives and families of the warriors cried when they heard of the tragedy; their tears turned into stone upon hitting the ground.

American singer songwriter Johnny Cash wrote lyrics entitled Apache Tears for his album Bitter Tears (Ballads Of The American Indian).

On the Mohs scale, Apache tears fall between 5 and 5.5

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Amythest

From galleries.com

The gemstone Amethyst is the Birthstone for February. It is also the Zodiac stone for the constellation of Pisces. Amethyst is associated with spirituality, wisdom, sobriety, and security.

Amethyst is the purple variety of the mineral quartz and is a popular gemstone. Although it must always be purple to be amethyst, it can and does have a wide range of purple shades. Its color is unparalleled, and even other, more expensive purple gemstones are often compared to its color and beauty. If it were not for its widespread availability, amethyst would be very expensive.

The name “amethyst” comes from the Greek and means “not drunken.” This was perhaps due to a belief that amethyst would ward off the effects of alcohol, but most likely the Greeks were referring to the almost wine-like color of some stones that they may have encountered.

Amethyst can occur as long prismatic crystals that have a six sided pyramid at either end or can form as druzes that are crystalline crusts that only show the pointed terminations. As a mineral specimen, amethyst is popular for its color and nice crystal shapes that produce a handsome, purple, sparkling cluster.

However, amethyst is not the same everywhere. Different localities can produce a unique amethyst to that particular region or even to that particular mine. Experts can often identify the source mine that a particular amethyst came from. The key to this is the specimen’s color, shape of crystal, inclusions, associations and character of formation.

The following is a list of many of the more noteworthy localities and some of the attributes that characterize the amethyst found there.

  • Vera Cruz, Mexico — very pale, clear, prismatic crystals that are sometimes double terminated and have grown on a light colored host rock. Crystals are typically phantomed, having a clear quartz interior and an amethyst exterior. Some are sceptered and phantomed.
  • Guerrero, Mexico — dark, deep purple, prismatic crystals that radiate outward from a common attachment point. Often the crystals are phantomed opposite of Vera Cruz amethyst having a purple interior with a clear or white quartz exterior. These are some of the most valuable amethysts in the world.
  • Minas Gerais and Rio Grande do Sul, Bahaia, Brazil — crystals form in druzy crusts that line the inside of sometimes large volcanic rock pockets or “vugs”. Some of the vugs may have formed from trees that were engulfed in a lava (or ash) flow millions of years ago and have since withered away. Other vugs are just gas bubbles in the lava. Some vugs can be quite large. The crystals that form are usually light to medium in color and only colored at the tops of the crystals. Most clusters form with gray, white and blue agate and have a green exterior on the vugs. Calcite sometimes is associated and inclusions of cacoxenite are common. On occasion, even excellent crystals of gypsum have been found nestled inside these amethyst lined vugs.
  • Maraba, Brazil — large crystals with unattractive surfaces that are of a pale to medium color and often carved or cut into slices. The large “Maraba points” are nearly always polished to remove the rough and milky surface, revealing the beautiful purple amethyst inside.
  • Thunder Bay, Canada — a distinct red hematite inclusion just below the surface of the crystals is unique to this locality. Clusters are druzy crusts that line the fissures formed in ancient metamorphic rocks.
  • Uruguay — crystals are dark to medium and form in druzy crusts of small crystals that line the inside of volcanic vugs that have a gray or brown exterior. The crystals are usually colored throughout, unlike the Brazilian crystals, and form with a multicolored agate that often contains reds, yellows and oranges. Often amethyst- coated stalactites and other unusual formations occur inside these vugs. The intense color of these druzy crusts is exceptional.
  • Africa — crystals are usually large but not attractive. However, the interior color and clarity are excellent and polished slices and carvings as well as many gemstones are prized and admired.
  • Maine, USA — Dark druzy clusters that are not widely distributed today.
  • North Carolina, USA — Druzy clusters that have a bluish-violet tint.
  • Pennsylvania, USA — druzy clusters that filled fractures in metamorphic rocks. They are generally a brownish purple and patchy in color.
  • Colorado, USA — druzy clusters form crusts inside of fissures in sandstone, often on top of a crust of green fluorite. Crystals are dark but rather small.
  • Italy — both Vera Cruz like crystals, although not as well defined, and large parallel growth clusters with good evenly distributed color.
  • Germany — associated with colorful agates that form a druzy light-colored crust.
  • Ural Mountains, Russia — a very clear and dark variety that is cut for fine expensive gemstones, natural uncut clusters are rarely on the market.

Often, cut gems of amethyst are graded using the terms: Siberian, Uruguayan or Bahain to represent high medium and low grade respectively, regardless of the actual source. Because of the patchiness of the color distribution in the crystals, Amethyst is often cut as brilliant round cuts to maximize the color. Other cuts can be used when the color is better distributed.

The color purple is traditionally the color of royalty and amethyst has been used since the dawn of history to adorn the rich and powerful monarchs and rulers. Today, amethyst is a lovely and affordable gemstone that is fortunately available in a wide variety of cut and uncut stones that we can all possess and admire.

Prasiolite is the leek-green variety of quartz, rare in nature but used as a gemstone, sometimes (wrongly) called Green Amethyst.

For natural amethyst specimens, including crystals and large geodes, see our Amethyst specimens pages.

7 Must Have Crystals for Beginners

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage

Moonstone/Oligoclase from galleries.com

Chemistry: Na(90-70%) Ca(10-30%) (Al, Si)AlSi2 O8, Sodium calcium aluminum silicate.

Class: Silicates

Subclass: Tectosilicates

Group: Feldspars

Uses: ornamental and semi-precious stone and as mineral specimens.

Specimens

Oligoclase is not a well-known mineral but has been used as a semi-precious stone under the names of sunstone and moonstone. Sunstone has flashes of reddish color caused by inclusions of hematite. Moonstone shows a glowing shimmer similar to labradorescence, but lacking in color. The display is produced from lamellar intergrowths inside the crystal. These intergrowths result from compatible chemistries at high temperatures becoming incompatible at lower temperatures and thus a separating and layering of these two phases. The resulting shimmer effect is caused by a ray of light entering a layer and being refracted back and forth by deeper layers before it exits the crystal. This refracted ray has a different character than when it went in and produces the moonlike glow. Moonstone is an alternate birthstone for the month of June.

Oligoclase is a member of the Plagioclase Feldspar Group. The plagioclase series comprises minerals that range in chemical composition from pure NaAlSi3 O8, Albite to pure CaAl2 Si2 O8 , anorthite. Oligoclase by definition must contain 90-70% sodium to 10-30% calcium in the sodium/calcium position of the crystal structure. The various plagioclase feldspars are identified from each other by gradations in index of refraction and density in the absence of chemical analysis and/or optical measurements.

All plagioclase feldspars show a type of twinning that is named after albite. Albite Law twinning produces stacks of twin layers that are typically only fractions of millimeters to several millimeters thick. These twinned layers can be seen as striation like grooves on the surface of the crystal and unlike true striations these also appear on the cleavage surfaces. The Carlsbad Law twin produces what appears to be two intergrown crystals growing in opposite directions. Two different twin laws, the Manebach and Baveno laws, produce crystals with one prominant mirror plane and penetrant angles or notches into the crystal. Although twinned crystals are common, single crystals showing a perfect twin are rare and are often collected by twin fanciers.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Color is usually off-white or gray or pale shades of green, yellow or brown.

Luster is vitreous to dull if weathered..

Transparency crystals are translucent to transparent.

Crystal System is triclinic; bar 1

Crystal Habits include blocky, or tabular crystals. Crystals have a nearly rectangular or square cross-section with slightly slanted dome and pinacoid terminations. Twinning is almost universal in all plagioclases. Crystals can be twinned according to the Albite, Carlsbad, Manebach and Baveno laws. Oligoclase can be found as a major rock forming component in granites and syenites.

Cleavage is perfect in one and good in another direction forming nearly right angled prisms.

Fracture is conchoidal.

Hardness is 6 – 6.5.

Specific Gravity is approximately 2.64 – 2.68 (average)

Streak is white.

Associated Minerals are quartz, muscovite and K-feldspars.

Other Characteristics: index of refraction is 1.533 – 1.552. Lamellar twinning may cause a grooved effect on cystal and cleavage surfaces that appear as striations.

Notable Occurrences include Sri Lanka; New York, USA; Russia; Sweden and Canada.

Best Field Indicators are occurrence, twinning striations, shimmer, density and index of refraction.

All About Rainbow Moonstone & It’s Hidden Powers from lakaiser.com

Rainbow moonstone.. such a magical stone! The name ‘Rainbow Moonstone’ was given due to the gemstone’s white sheen color that changes if it is rolled or rotated. The iridescent flashes on the gemstone have captivated the hearts of jewelry lovers for centuries. Moonstone is a mineral of the feldspar group and the optical phenomenon that causes the color play is known as Adularescence. The light moves across the gem much like the moonlight glides over a large body of water hence causing the extraordinary glow. The light reflects off of the thin layers of the feldspar minerals within the moonstone. The layers act as a diffuser, hence softening the light and allowing it to bounce around.

With its otherworldly facade, moonstone has mesmerized people of different cultures. Its use can be traced back to the ancient civilizations. The Romans believed that the moonstone was born from the solidified rays of the moon. The Greeks and the Romans have long associated the gem with their lunar gods. Other cultures strongly coveted that the stone’s powers were with the moon. It was especially prized during a full moon.

Although the Rainbow Moonstone found its way into jewelry throughout history, it wasn’t until the early 1900s that the stone became an iconic focal point. Rainbow Moonstone became immensely popular with various artists and goldsmiths during the Art Nouveau period, in the early 20th century. In the preceding years it was mainly used as an accent stone. Artisans like René Lalique focused on using natural, mystical stones with unique properties which were favored over glitzy stones. But the movement was short lived and it was soon followed by Art Deco which emphasized on the use of diamonds and precious gemstones. It wasn’t until the late 1960s that moonstone came back into fashion.

Seen as a veiled spectacle of light passing over the moon, the gemstone is highly valued among the monks, shamans, spiritualists, and devotees from various religions. The pearly iridescence it showcases holds a deep meaning and has a towering significance.

As ancient as the moon itself, the meaning of the Rainbow Moonstone lies within its playful glimmer. Its power nourishes, gives passion and awakens your feminine energies. The gemstone has the ability to not only heal you but is believed to guide you to your inner path. With the waxing and waning of the moon, it evokes tranquility and peace that has a sensual, enigmatic feel to it. It emanates an exuberance that can re-energizes a person’s mind, body and wash the negativity away. Enveloped in gleaming rays of gold, blue and purple the Rainbow Moonstone is embraced with white energy that makes it a protective gem.

But what does it really mean?

Often connected to the water signs, the Rainbow Moonstone is associated with lots of healing properties :

Enhances intuition

Makes wearer more accepting of change

Alleviates fear associated with change

Balances emotions

Promotes a calm mood

Encourages peace, harmony, and balance

Improves confidence

Helps a person become more passionate

Often called the “visionary stone”, Rainbow Moonstone mostly occurs in the regions of Armenia, Australia, the Alps in Austria, Mexico, Madagascar, Myanmar, Norway, Poland, India, Sri Lanka and the United States.

16 Common Witchcraft Spell Casting Essentials c. 2018

These common witchcraft spell casting essentials are not listed in any particular order. They are listed in the order in which they came to me for the purpose of writing this article.

These are not the only common witchcraft spell casting essentials, however, they are some of the ones that I feel are the main ones.

THE most important witchcraft spell casting essential is intent. Without intent, you have nothing but words and actions, and not really a spell cast at all.

In no particular order, a list of Common Witchcraft Spell Casting Essentials

1. Salt
Used for cleansing and banishing. It is also used for protection during cleansing and banishing spells. Salt is a natural antiseptic. Salt is commonly used for circles for standing or sitting in while casting. It also ensures a clean spell.

2. Broom
Brooms are highly symbolic. Brooms symbolize the sweeping away of anything unwanted. They are used physically, as well as symbolically. You would use a broom to physically sweep away in a cleansing spell, banishing spell, also in some protection spells (ones that would rid unwanted energy from your home to keep it out).

3. Candles
Candles are used for focus and mood. Candles should be readily available in as many colors as you can get a hold of. Different colored candles hold symbolism for a variety of spells. Colors are chosen based on the nature of the spell and what feels right. White can be substituted for any color in the absence of the chosen color.

For example, some people like to use the color Red for love spells, or the colors Green or Gold for money spells, or Blue for healing spells, etc.

You can choose what colors feel right for you for any spell of your choosing. You do not have to go with the commonly used color associations if you feel another color will work better for you in a certain spell or ritual.

4. Crystals and Stones
You should have a variety of stones and crystals for different purposes. Crystals and stones contain a charge for various things so you will want to choose wisely based on your spell. In the absence of the proper crystal, Quartz can be charged with the necessary properties. I find Quartz to be quite powerful and quite generic because of its nature.

Important: You do not want to use crystals or stones of any kind (even wedding rings or other jewelry) when doing banishing spells. When you are working to banish (especially with entities), crystals and stones can absorb the energy of the entity, keeping the entity attached to that stone forever.

Be selective in what spells you use crystals and stones in.

5. Incense
Incense comes in a wide variety of scents /odors. You will always want to choose what suits the spell best and what feels right for you at the time of casting.

Incense can be used to trigger certain emotions or invoke a mindset. Different smells for different purposes.

I prefer vanilla for most spells, as it is very soothing and calming, and helps to set the mood for casting.

6. Anointing Oils and Essential Oils
Oils are used for various purposes. Some are for scent and feeling, and others are for cleansing or blessing. The different oils are chosen based on items they are needed for and for the spell they are being used in.

7. Silence

Silence is optimal for casting any spell. You need to be able to focus on your spell without distraction. If you have children, especially young ones, you need to choose your timing wisely.

8. Isolation

Unless you are with a coven, isolation is a preferable. (If you are with a coven, then the coven should be isolated.) Being alone goes hand-in-hand with silence.

9. Book of Shadows (Spell Book)

A book with your spells written inside it. It is important to always write down your spells that you cast in the event that you want to perform a certain spell again. This is something that you will always have and should keep protected. A notebook can be used, but you should transfer your spells into something more permanent. Spells, although written down in this book can be altered at any time.

10. Intent

THE most important thing you need when casting any spell. Witchcraft is based on intent. Make sure that your intentions are known before you even begin casting your spell. Know what you want to achieve and focus on it.

11. Focus

Focus works alongside intent. You want to focus on your intentions and on what it is that you are doing throughout the spell to make those intentions be your outcome.

12. Confidence

You must have confidence in order for your spells to take effect. The more confident you are, the stronger your casting will be. Know in your heart and in your mind that what you are doing within the spell has worked, is working, and will work. Believe it and so shall it be.

13. Altar

A place where you have all of your essentials gathered together to perform your rituals and castings. Usually a table or desk dedicated to your collection of Witchcraft items. This is also where you would perform offerings to the Gods or Goddesses that you are calling upon to help you. For lack of a table or desk, you can use the top of a dresser or a shelving unit, a shelf, or even a window sill.

14. Herbs and Flowers

You will want to have various herbs and flowers on hand at all times for various spells. Herbs and flowers can be used fresh or dried. If burning the herbs or flowers, you will of course want to use dried. Fragrance from fresh herbs and flowers may be needed depending on the spell to be cast and the ritual to be performed. Also, if being used for symbolism, you would choose fresh or dried accordingly. (eg. dried to symbolize old, and fresh to symbolize new)

15. Cauldron

A fireproof container for burning various objects, incense, images, herbs, etc. When a spell calls for it, you will need to burn certain things, so a cauldron will make the perfect venue for this. A cauldron is not used only for burning; it is also used for mixing. In your cauldron, you can mix any of your “ingredients” that you need to bring together for your spell or ritual. You may want to heat some mixtures in your cauldron, so this is another reason it should be fireproof. It should also be food-safe if you are mixing potions
Go with your instinct no matter what kind of spell you are casting or ritual you are performing. Use your instincts when choosing every element and every word to a spell or ritual. Only you know what is right for your spell or ritual, no one can tell you what should be used and what shouldn’t. Go with your instinct every time, even if you have a spell previously written. If that spell feels like it should be changed, then change it. Instincts will get you very far with witchcraft.

This is not a complete list of everything that you will ever need or that you will ever use in your spells and rituals, and it is not meant to be. It is simply a list of some of the most common witchcraft spell casting essentials that are important to ensure a great spell.

You don’t need all of these things for each spell. You want to use any combination of the essentials (and anything else that you feel is necessary) in each individual spell.
Source
Unhypnotize.com Wicca/Witchcraft

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage

Crystals for Love and Relationships

Are you interested in learning about crystals which can help you with your love life? These crystals are not only pretty to look at, they are known to help in all matters of emotion!

Ruby

The Ruby’s connection with love goes back to ancient history. Egyptians believed it was the stone of love. This beautiful gem’s use in crowns and regalia show its association with royalty; “love rules”. Fidelity has been a part of the Ruby’s influence, and the 40th wedding anniversary is the “Ruby Anniversary.” Love’s appreciation as a higher emotion aligns with the Ruby. It is said that a ruby will darken if an unfaithful lover comes near. The stone of the Root Chakra, the Ruby is also associated with sensual pleasures and physical passion. Wearing a ruby can increase sexual attraction.

Rose Quartz

Rose quartz beads have been dated back to the Mesopotamian culture, over 7,000 years ago. Considered by many to be the ultimate stone of love, the soft pink color and delicate beauty of rose quartz mirrors the delicate strength of love itself. Sometimes called the “love stone”, the color matches the aura given off by the heart Chakra. Wearing Rose Quartz jewelry can help bring healing and appropriate self-love. Meditating with Rose Quartz helps to instill calm and peacefulness. Carry a piece with you to help mend a broken heart and encourage gentle emotional healing.

Emerald

This brilliant green gem has a long history with mankind. The emerald held an honored place in Egypt, aligned with both Horus and Isis. The ancient Greeks believed it was emblematic of the Goddess Artemis and was believed to help ease pain during childbirth. This stone, the color of the Heart Chakra, was once thought to lose its color or turn a mottled brown if a partner was cheating or unfaithful. Giving an emerald to the one you love is believed to ward away lustful thoughts. Emeralds symbolize psychic powers and the connection between those who share true love.

Green Jade…

To read the rest click here Crystals

Crystals for Empaths

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage for Wednesday

From mycrystalaura.com.au

Crystals:

Citrine

Agates

 Aventurine

 Mica

Pumice

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage for Tuesday

From mycrystalaura.com.au

Crystals:

Ruby

Garnet

Bloodstone

Flint

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Rhodonite

 Hematite

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage for Monday

From mycrystalaura.com.au

 Moonstone

Pearl

Aquamarine

Selenite