Ä [40] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Wed 10 Mar 93 20:41 Subj : Malachite ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ MALACHITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Malachite is a basic copper carbonate. It's chemistry is Cu2CO3(OH)2. It ranges in color from emerald green thru grass green to shades of silky pale green. The streak is light green. It's hardness is 3-1/2 to 4. Crystals are rare. Most gem specimens display distinctive concentric colorbanding; (alternating dark green and light green bands.) ENVIRONMENT: Malachite is a secondary copper mineral and develops in the zone of alteration in massive, lode, and disseminated hydrothermal replacement deposits. Associated minerals are azurite, limonite, and chalcopyrite. OCCURENCE: The copper mines at Bisbee, Chochise Co., Arizona, are famous for their fine specimens of massive malachite and pseudomorphs of malachite after azurite. Mines at Morenci in Greenlee Co., and at Globe in Gila Co., Arizona, have yielded beautiful malachite specimens, of which some consist of alternating layers of green malachite and blue azurite. Fine malachite has also come from copper mines in California, Nevada, Utah, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. NAME: The name is from the Greek [moloche], "mallow," an illusion to the mineral's leaf-green color. Malachite is used as an ore of copper and as a gemstone. LEGEND and LORE: It is said that if malachite is worn, it will break into pieces to warn the wearer of danger. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Used to direct power towards magical goals. Protective, especially towards children. According to Cunningham, "Small pieces of malachite placed in each corner of a business building or a small piece placed in the cash register draws customers. Worn during business meetings or trade shows, it increases your ability to obtain good deals and sales. It is the salesperson's stone." (2) HEALING: If the malachite is of the blue-green variety, it can be associated with the Sacral Center, or Splenic Chakra (Svadisthana). Here, it's energy branches to the left, to the spleen. (It is intended in this position for those who are celebate.) In addition, if it is grass-green, it can be used at the Lumbar/Solar Plexis Center. "When the malachite is placed at the solar plexus and a piece of green jade is placed at the heart center and a double-terminated quartz crystal is placed between them, people may remember events that have been blocked for years. They may cry or scream. As these buried emotions are brought to the surface and released, a great weight is lifted and they soon feel renewed." (3) PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I am very careful about using Malachite. It has been my experience that the emotions that it releases can be very powerful, to the point of overwhelming some people. On the other hand, if the individual is ready to deal with them (in a "growth" period) it may work out just fine. You could "balance" the emotional content with a pink stone (such as rose quartz) to cut down some on the intensity. A few years ago, I broke my arm. To do so, I damaged the muscles and nerves in my wrist. I was in a lot of pain, and was searching for what I could do to help the situation. During a journey, I saw malachite, so I found a malachite heart which I held in the palm of the broken arm while meditating. I got a lot of relief from it. Now, if the wrist acts up, I use the heart, taped over the wrist area when I go to bed at night. It seems to help quite a bit. I now recommend malachite for nerve/muscle damage with some success. (4) -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurance and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [40] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Thu 11 Mar 93 21:16 Subj : Emerald ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ EMERALD SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Emerald is a type of Beryl, Beryllium aluminum silicate, frequently with some sodium, lithium and cesium. It's chemistry is Be3Al2Si6O18. Beryls range in color from Bright green (emerald), blue, greenish blue (aquamarine), yellow (golden beryl), red, pink (morganite) to white. The streak is colorless. It's hardness is 7-1/2 to 8. The crystals are Hexagonal and they are common. Fine emeralds have velvety body appearance; their value lies in their even distribution of color. Inclusions are common in emerald, but other stones of this group are usually most valuable when free of flaws. ENVIRONMENT: Beryl develops in pegmatites and certain metamorphic rocks. It occurs with quartz, microcline, and muscovite in pegmatites, and with quartz, muscovite, and almandine in schist of regional metamorphic rocks. OCCURENCE: Best emerald comes from Colombia. (NOTE: it is not necessary to spend thousands of dollars for a tiny chip of emerald to add to your healing/ magical collection. If you look around in rock shops, you may be able to come across some "less than perfect" stones that aren't faceted. I've found 4 of them, slightly larger than my fingernail and they were about $3.00 each.) NAME: The name is from the Greek [beryllos] indicating any green gemstone. LEGEND and LORE: Emerald is considered a birthstone for the month of May. "Who first beholds the light of day, In spring's sweet flowery month of May, And wears an Emerald all her life, Shall be a loved, and happy wife." (5) MAGICAL PROPERTIES: "If you wish to bring a love into your life, buy an emerald and charge it with your magical need through your visualization, perhaps while placing it near a green candle. After this ritual, wear or carry the emerald somewhere near your heart. Do this in such a way that it cannot be seen by others. When you meet a future love, you'll know it wasn't the visible jewel that attracted him or her." (3) The Greeks associated this stone with the Goddess Venus. It has come to represent, for many people, the security of love. Emerald, like allmost all of the green stones, is also advantageous for business/money ventures. HEALING: Emerald is said to aid perception and inner clarity. Because of this, they are also associated with healing diseases of the eye, and problems affecting eyesight. It was believed that emeralds could counteract poisons and cure disentary. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I sometimes use Emeralds in a stone layout. I will use them for their psychological/spiritual values of clarity and perception. If I am using them for this purpose, I use them in the area of the Heart Chakra, in conjunction with Rose Quartz, or Rhodochrosite for balanced energy. I've also used them for prosperity consciousness. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurance and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. Other sources may be "Stone Power" by Dorothee L. Mella. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. 5. Birthstone poem from "The Occult and Curative Powers of Precious Stones" by William T. Fernie, M.D. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Fri 12 Mar 93 22:20 Subj : Opal ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ OPAL SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Opal is hydrous silica, often with some iron and aluminum. Its chemistry is SiO2.nH2O; amount of water varies up to 10 percent. It ranges in color from White, yellow, red, pink, brown to gray, blue and even colorless. It is most easily recognized by its rich internal play of colors (opalescence). Its hardness ranges from 5-1/2 to 6-1/2. It is vitreous and pearly. The streak is white. It is not found in crystal form, rather is is usually massive, botryoidal, reniform, stalactitic, and/or earthy. ENVIRONMENT: Opal is a low-temperature mineral and usually develops in a wide variety of rocks as cavity and fracture fillings. It requently develops as amygdules in basalt and rhyolite of volcanic rock and replaces the cells in wood and the shells of clams. OCCURENCE: Common opal is widespread and can be readily obtained at many places, but localities for precious opal are rare and seem to localized in W United States and Mexico. Magnificent examples of opalized wood can be found in Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington, and lively green fluorescing opal (hyalite) occurs in seams in pegmatites in New England and North Carolina and in cavities in basalt near Klamath Falls, Oregon. Beautiful precious opal, as a replacement in wood, has been obtained in Virgin Valley, Humboldt Co., Nevada. Excellent fire and precious opal occur in laval flows in N Mexico. Nevada, Australia, and Honduras are sources for black opal; Australia and Czechoslovakia for white opal; Mexico and SW United States for fire opal. GEMSTONE INFORMATION: Black, dark blue, dark green opal with dark gray body color and fine play of colors is called [black opal;] opal with white or light body color and fine play of color is called [white opal;] and transparent to translucent opal with body color ranging from orange-yellow to red and a play of colors is called [fire opal.] Play of colors depends upon interference of light and is not dependent upon body color. Black opal is the most highly prized, and fire opal is the most valued of the orange and red varieties. Most opal is fashioned into cabochons, but some fire opals are faceted. NAME: The word is from the Sanskrit [upala,] meaning "precious stone." LEGEND and LORE: Opal is a birthstone for October. "October's child is born for woe, And life's vicissitudes must know; But lay an Opal on her breast, And hope will lull those foes to rest." (5) Opals have traditionally been considered "lucky" stones...but only for those born in the month of October. It has been considered bad luck to wear them if you were born in any other month. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Opal is considered to be able to confer the gift of invisibility on its wearer. To accomplish this, Cunningham says "The gem was wrapped in a fresh bay leaf and carried for this purpose." He also says, "Opals are also worn to bring out inner beauty. A beauty spell: Place a round mirror on the altar or behind it so that you can see your face within it while kneeling. Place two green candles on eithe side of the mirror. Light the candles. Empower an opal with your need for beauty -- while holding the stone, gaze into your reflection. With the scalpel of your visualization, mold and form your face (and your body) to the form you desire. Then, carry or wear the opal and dedicate yourself to improving your appearance." (2) HEALING: Opals contain all the colors of the other stones, thus, it could be used in place of any of them. (They are akin to quartz crystals, in this aspect.) Generally speaking, Opal is used more frequently for healing the spirit, rather than the physical body. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: Opals are probably my favorite stone. This may be partially due to the fact that they are my birthstone, and I have been surrounded by them all of my life. For me, they are protective and invigorating. I normally use them during Journeying, and when doing "readings" for other...anything where I am using altered states of consciousness. I find that they help me to understand the symbols of my visions in a way that makes them meaningful for others. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurance and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. 5. Birthday poem from "The Occult and Curative Powers of Precious Stones" by William T. Fernie, M.D. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Sat 13 Mar 93 23:22 Subj : BloodStone ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ BLOODSTONE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Bloodstone is a member of the Chalcedony family. It is a variety of quartz (silicon dioxide) often with some iron and aluminum. The chemistry is SiO2. It is dark, bright green spotted with red inclusions. The streak is white. This is considered a microcrystalline variety of quartz and is not found in crystal form. ENVIRONMENT: Chalcedony is formed in several environments, generally near the surface of the earth where temperatures and pressures are relatively low. It commonly forms in the zone of alteration of lode and massive hydrothermal replacement deposits and as bodies of chert in chemical sedimentary rocks. OCCURENCE: India, Germany. NAME: This stone is also referred to as "heliotrope," which is derived from two Greek words which signify "sun-turning". It was given this name because of a notion that when immersed in water it would turn the sun red. Chalcedony is derived from Chalcedon, an ancient Greek city of Asia Minor. LEGEND and LORE: This is one of the birthstones for March. "Who in this world of ours, her eyes In March first opens, shall be wise. In days of peril, firm and brave, And wear a Bloodstone to her grave." (5) Ancient warriors often carried an amulet of bloodstone which was intended to stop bleeding when applied to a wound. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Because it is green, it can be used for "money spells". It is also considered a "lucky" stone for atheletes because it imparts courage and stamina. HEALING: Heliotrope is used today in conjunction with anything having to do with blood. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I consider the ancient uses of bloodstone in line with what I use it for today. In addition, I consider it a "cholesterol buster", and wouldn't hesitate to apply it to any with this type of problem. Generally I would use it at the Heart Chakra. I've also used it successfully in situations where I needed "courage" to accomplish something. I will just carry a piece of it in my pocket for this purpose. NOTE: Chrysoprase, carnelian, jasper and agate are all forms of Chalcedony. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurance and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. 5. Birthstone poem from "The Occult and Curative Powers of Precious Stones" by William T. Fernie, M.D. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Sat 13 Mar 93 23:39 Subj : an interesting experiment (BLOODSTONE cont.) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ This is more about bloodstone, but I didn't want to include it in the main text. Read on, and you'll see why... A few years ago, I had a discussion with my daughter (who was about 13 at the time) about the "spiritual essence" of plants and stones. I explained to her that different people "see" this spiritual essence in various forms. Somehow, this led to a discussion of "devas", which she interpreted as "people, but without a body that we can see with mundane eyes." A few days later, I was reading a novel, reposed on the sofa in my livingroom. She was sitting on the floor by the coffee table, drawing in her sketchbook with her pastels. On the coffee table were several stones in a dish. One was an amethyst, one a bloodstone, one was some yellow/green crystal that someone had loaned to me because they wanted my "impressions" ...and there were some others that I don't remember now. I glanced over at my daughter, and she was holding one of the stones in her hands, with her eyes closed. She apparently had achieved some form of "altered state" because her little eyeballs were just wigglin' away (REM). A while later, I glanced over, and she was drawing a portrait. After she seemed finished and satisfied with what she was doing, I questioned her about it. She said she was drawing the "spirit/deva" of the stones in the dish. The one for bloodstone was an elf-like, male person. He had dark/black hair, green, slanted eyes, "Spock" eyebrows, and pointed ears. Because of the expression on his face, I asked her what she thought of him. Her comments were: "He is very fierce. I'm kind of afraid of him, because it seems like he is pretty strong and could get mad. He uses weapons...and can fight." My daughter didn't know anything about the "lore" connected with the stones. In addition, I found that "bloodstone" was very different from any of the other "stone portraits" that she did...The rest were much more "human"... T* (Lady A.: one of the others was Amethyst. It was a female with black hair and violet eyes. Her hair had a white "streak" in it. Amanda said "She is kind of sad, because she has LOTS of work to do." --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Sun 14 Mar 93 19:26 Subj : Lapis ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAZURITE (LAPIS LAZULI) SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Lazurite is a silicate of sodium calcium and aluminum, with some sulfur. It is a member of the sodalite group. It's chemistry is (Na, Ca)8(Al,Si)12O24(S,SO)4. The color ranges in shades of blue from violet blue and azure blue thru greenish-blue. Lazurite is distinguished from sodalite by its deeper color and fine grain. It is also softer and lighter in weight than lazulite. It is dull to greasy and the streak is pale blue. The hardness ranges between 5 and 5-1/2. ENVIRONMENT: Crystals are rare. It is usually granular, compact, massive. It forms in association with pyrite, calcite, and diopside in hornfels of contact metamorphic rocks. The opaque, vivid blue, light blue, greenish-blue, or violet-blue stone, consisting largely of lazurite but with appreciable amounts of calcite, diopside, and pyrite, is a rock called [lapis lazuli.] The stone is usually veined or spotted. Its value depends largely upon excellence and uniformity of color and absence of pyrite, although some purchasers prefer lapis with pyrite. OCCURRENCE: Lazurite is a rare mineral in North America, but it does occur on Italian Mt. in the Sawatch Mts. of Colorado; on Ontario Peak in the San Gabriel Mts., Los Angeles Co., and in Cascade Canyon in the San Bernardino Mts., San Bernardino Co., California. The finest lapis lazuli has come from Badakshan in Afghanistan, and less valuable material has come from Russia and Chile. NAME: The name is from the Arabic [lazaward], "heaven," which was also applied to sky-blue lapis lazuli. LEGEND and LORE: Lapis Lazuli was a favorite stone of the ancient Egyptians. In the past Lazurite has been burned and ground to form the pigment "ultramarine." It was consider an aid to childbirth, and has long been associated with altered states of consciousness and trance work. Lapis is sometimes designated as a birthstone for December, although turquoise is most common. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: To quote Cunningham: "This stone is used in rituals designed to attract spiritual love. Take an untumbled piece of lapis with a sharp edge. Empower the stone and a pink candle with your need for love. Then, using the lapis lazuli, carve a heart onto the candle. Place the stone near the candleholder and burn the candle while visualizing a love coming into your life." Actually, the most important magical aspect of lapis is it's ability to strengthen psychic awareness. Cunningham says "Despite its somewhat high price, lapis lazuli is one stone every stone magician should own and utilize."(2) HEALING: This stone is used at the Ajina, the Brow Chakra. It's related gland is the pituitary. The pituitary gland is also referred to as the "master gland" because it regulates all of the others. This location is also the center for the eyes, ears, nose and brain. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I don't often use Lapis for physical healing, unless I feel that there is a "link" between what is manifested as disease, and some conflict of the "higher self". I have used it for brain disorders (tumors, inflammation, etc.) More often, I use it in layouts where the client is trying to achieve an altered state of consciousness. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurrence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Mon 15 Mar 93 21:08 Subj : Amber ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ AMBER SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Amber is not a true stone. It is fossilized resin of coniferous trees of the Oligoncene geological epoch, some thirty million years ago. It varies in color from pale yellow to dark brown, although some specimens have been found that are red. Amber is famous for containing insects and small animals of various kinds as well as leaves, bark and other contemporary detritus which became stuck and enclosed in the resin while it was still liquid. It is sometimes also called succinite. Amber is a very soft stone, with a hardness of 2 to 2-1/2. ENVIRONMENT: The trees that exuded the resin for Baltic amber grew in what is now central and south-eastern Sweden. From there, it was carried by rivers and the sea to the present site. OCCURENCE: The most prolific source of amber is the Baltic seacoast to the north and west of a town now known a Kaliningrad in the USSR. Small deposits have been found in the Dominican Republic. NAME: The name is derive from the Arabic. Succinite is from the Latin [succus], meaning "juice". The ancient Greeks called it [elektron]. LEGEND and LORE: The ancient Greeks were the first to record information about amber's "electrical" properties. If it is rubbed with a piece of silk, it will attract dust and ashes. Because of the inclusions of insects and small animals, it was often thought to contain the essence of life. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Amber has always been associated with magic. It is a favorite protective and enhancing stone of Wiccans and Shamans. It is a senusal, (amber is warm to the touch,) magnetic stone that attracts love. HEALING: In ancient times, amber was burned to clense the air, especially during childbirth. It was also thought to improve eyesight by gazing into it. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: Touching amber is soothing to the nerves. Stones of the pale/bright yellow type are good "all-healers", since they represent the energy of the Sun. I use them at the Solar Plexus, which is the center of Chi in the body. NOTES: Amber will float in a saturated salt solution (ten level teaspoonfuls of salt in a tumbler of water). Plastic will not. Ambergris, which is much used in perfumery, is totally different in appearance and is not even distantly related to amber. I discourage people from burning amber, although it will create a rather pleasant odor. Amber, like all fossils/fossil fuels is NOT a renewable resource. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurance and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "Gemstones" by E. H. Rutland. 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [42] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Tue 16 Mar 93 21:29 Subj : Sapphire ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ SAPPHIRE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Sapphire is a member of the Corundum family, along with ruby. Both are basically aluminum oxide. It's chemistry is Al2O3. All colors of Corundum are considered to be "sapphire" unless they are red (Ruby.) It ranges in color from pink, blue, green, violet, gray, yellow and many shades in between. Black sapphire is colored by an admixture of magnetite, hematite or spinel (emery). Corundum is one of the hardest stones, rated at 9. The streak is white. ENVIRONMENT: The crystals are Hexagonal; sometimes tapering prismatic; also pyramidal, tabular. It is often striated. OCCURENCE: Gem quality sapphire have been found at only a few places in North America: at Yogo Gulch, Judith Basin Co., Montana, and at several places in North Carolina. Thailand, Ceylon, and Burma are the principal sources. NAME: Corundum is from [kuruntam], a Tamil word derived from Sanskrit [kuruvinda,] meaning "ruby." (I have not been able to locate a source for the word "sapphire".) LEGEND and LORE: Sapphire has been associated with divine favor. The Budhists believed that the sapphire favored devotion and spiritual enlightenment. It is the birthstone for the month of September: "A maiden born when autumn leaves Are rustling in September's breeze. A Sapphire on her brow should bind; 'Twill cure diseases of the mind. (5) MAGICAL PROPERTIES: The ancient Greeks linked sapphire with Apollo, and wore it as an aid to prophecy when consulting oracles. For this reason, it is considered an aid for developing the "third eye". It was also considered to be able to guard its owner from being captured. It is worn and utilized in rituals to strengthen the ability to tap and send forth power. HEALING: Sapphire has been use as an aide to healing aliments of the eyes. It is also considered a booster for the immune system, protecting the body in general from disease. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I've only recently acquired two sapphires. One of them is from Saudi Arabia, and is faceted. The second one I bought on March 13, 1993, and is probably from Thailand. As a result, I haven't really had a chance to work with them, so I have no comments at the moment. NOTES: Corundum is used as an abrasive. It is also used as the "jewels" in watches with "jewel movements." -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurance and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. 5. Birthstone poem from "The Occult and Curative Powers of Precious Stones" by William T. Fernie, M.D. --- Ä [42] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Wed 17 Mar 93 20:21 Subj : Star Stones ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ STAR STONES SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: If a transparent or translucent mineral contains numerous thin, hair-like fibers of another mineral, light reflected from a polished surface displays a fibrous sheen like satin or silk. This effect is called [chatoyancy] and is responsible for the streaks of light in catseye gems and star stones. Most commonly, the inclusions in corundum (sapphire, ruby) are rutile. Other stones that may display the star effect are garnet and tourmaline. For the catseye effect, the fibers lay in parallel bundles. When they are crystallized out parallel to the trigonal crystal symmetry, (two or more such lines intersect in the middle,) the appearance of a four-, six- or even twelve-rayed star may appear. The star stones are referred to as [asterias.] The twelve-rayed star is the most rare, and therefore the most valuable. In most cases, star stones are produced as cabochons (that is, with a rounded top). It is important that these should be cut so that the star is exactly in the middle of the round stone. Most star stones are a pale grey, but they can also be found in the richest colors. Occasionally one of the three rays of the star greatly predominates and stones are then cut as oval cat's-eyes. Almandine Garnets, when they display a star are referred to as [carbuncles]. LEGEND and LORE: In the East, star stones and cat's-eyes are considered exceptionally lucky, especially in games of chance. They have also been used for scrying. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: In general, a stone displaying the star type chatoyancy is considered to be magically strengthened. A star in a sapphire increases the users ability to tap the subconscious/higher mind. A star ruby is considered to be a particularly potent protection against other forms of magic. HEALING: Star stones can be used in the same ways as the stone, but with increased power/potency. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I've only recently aquired a star ruby (March 13, 1993), so I really haven't had time to work with it. I have used star garnets. I use them to represent two friends of mine who are astrologers, who also have problems dealing with money. The star is for the astrology. The red color is for the Root Chakra, Muldhara. This Chakra is the base of survival. It is grounded in material reality, so it is the center of manifestation. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific information is from "Gem Cutting" by John Sinkankas and "Gemstones" by E.H. Rutland. 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "The Women's Book of Healing" by Diane Stein. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [42] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Thu 18 Mar 93 21:09 Subj : Amethyst ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ AMETHYST SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Violet to red-purple quartz is called amethyst. It is the same formula as Quartz (SiO2) with the addition of iron. Its hardness is 7. ENVIRONMENT: Basic quartz is an important rock-forming mineral and developed in many different environments. Amethyst is often found in Quartz geodes. OCCURENCE: Gem quality stones come from Brazil, Uraguay, the Ural Mountains and Japan. Fine deep-colored amethyst occurs in the quarries in Patterson, New Jersey. Drusy amethyst (generally paler in color) is abundant in many silver mines in Mexico. Some specimens have been found in the Four Peaks region of Arizona. NAME: The name comes from the Greek [A-methystos], meaning 'not tipsy'. LEGEND and LORE: Amethyst and magic have been connected for at least 2,000 years. The Greeks believed it to be an amulet against inebriation. It is one of the few stones specifically recommended for men to use for attracting women. Amethyst is the birthstone for February: "The February-born shall find Sincerity, and peace of mind, Freedom from passion and from care, If they the Amethyst will wear." (5) MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Amethyst can be used to increase psychic awareness, to sharpen the 'sixth sense'. Because of this, many people keep a crystal with their I-Ching, tarot, or Rune tools. It is considered a very spiritual stone. HEALING: This stone is the major stone for the Crown Chakra. This location deals with extrasensory perception. In addition, it can be used in this position for healing of the nervous system and the brain. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I use this stone as a "calming" stone for those people who are "hyper" and anxious. It will also work for mild depression. (See Kunzite for severe/manic depression.) In addition, I recommend it for anyone who is addicted to alcohol or other mind/mood altering drugs. NOTES: Heat treating Amethyst will change it from purple to brown or yellow, and many Citrines on the market are created this way. Amethyst from one particular mine in Brazil will turn green when heated. It is marked under the name of prasiolite. (Although this is actually the name of an entirely different mineral. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. 5. Birtstone poem from "The Occult and Curative Powers of Precious Stones" by William T. Fernie, M.D. --- Ä [42] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Fri 19 Mar 93 21:13 Subj : Kunzite ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ KUNZITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Kunzite is a pink to purple variety of Spodumene. It is lithium aluminum silicate from the pyroxene group. It's chemistry is LiAlSi2O6. The hardness is rated at 6-1/2 to 7. The streak is white. ENVIRONMENT: Kunzite is found only in granite pegmatities, where it generally occurs with tourmaline, albite, and lepidolite. OCCURENCE: The Pala district in San Diego Co., California, produces gem-quality kunzite. It has also been found in Maine, Brazil and Madagascar. NAME: Kunzite is named after George F. Kunz, PhD. Dr. Kunz, a well known mineralogist, is the author of "The Curious Lore of Precious Stones". LEGEND and LORE: Kunzite is a relatively new stone and not mentioned in ancient texts. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: This mineral is relatively unexplored for magical uses. Cunningham suggests that it is a centering/grounding stone and may also be useful for attracting love. HEALING: The position for this stone is the Crown Chakra. Because of it's high lithium content, it is recommended for psychological disorders involving severe/manic depression. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: My first exposure to Kunzite came about in one of those "it can't be coincidence" ways. I was preparing a medicine bag for a friend of a friend who is a diagnosed manic depressive. I had NO idea what would be a good stone to use for her, and had been concerned since nothing was "jumping out of the collection" to be "hers". I went shopping, and in the mall was a man selling stone/crystal jewelry. He had a dish of rough and semitumbled stones on the table. I walked right over and picked up a lovely purple-pink stone, and stood there talking to him about his display. Kind of suddenly, I blurted out "I want to buy THIS stone...How much?" He asked me what I wanted it for, and I actually TOLD him. I also said, I don't know what this is, but I know it is the right thing to use. He laughed, and explained to me what it was and GAVE it to me to use. As it turned out, the piece was granular, and I found a gem-quality piece to use in the medicine bag. I now use the granular piece all the time for treating sever depression and other related psychological disorders. NOTES: Kunzite will gradually fade with exposure to sunlight. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [42] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Sat 20 Mar 93 20:20 Subj : Staurolite ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ STAUROLITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Staurolite (also known as "Fairy Cross") is a basic silicate of iron and aluminum, often with some magnesium and zinc. The chemical formula is rather long, Fe2Al9Si4O22(OH)2. It's hardness is on par with quartz, ranging from 7 to 7-1/2. They are yellowish brown, reddish to brownish black, weathering to grey and are somewhat dull in appearance. The streak is white. They are collectors items because twinned crystals often intergorw at nearly 90 degree angles, forming a cross. ENVIRONMENT: Staurolite occurs with albite, biotitie, and sillimanite in gneiss and schist of regional metamorphic rocks. OCCURENCE: In North America, twinned crystals are found at Windham, Cumberland Co., Maine; at Sugar Hill, Franconia and Lisbon, Grafton Co., New Hampshire; and in Fannin Co., Georgia. Particularly fine twinned crystals can also be found near Pilar, Rio Arriba Co., New Mexico. They have also been found at Pizzo Forno, Switzerland, France and Scotland. NAME: The name comes from the Greek [stauros], meaning 'cross'. LEGEND and LORE: Staurolite was considered to be a representative of all four elements: Air, Fire, Earth and Water. It was believed that a person who possessed this talisman could cause the elements to do his/her bidding. In addition, it was believed that the 90 degree cross represented the crossing of the spiritual and physical planes. After the arrival of Christianity, these stones were popular with those who entered a crusade. Many people now days carry them as a good luck charm. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Cunningham says "To gain control over the elemental forces, wear a staurolite set in any electrum fashioned as a ring or pendant." HEALING: I've been unable to find ANY reference to this stone used in healing. All references I've seen refer to it as protective, or lucky, or elemental. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I do not currently have one in my collection. NOTES: Transparent, single crystals of staurolite are occasionally cut into faceted gems. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [42] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Sun 21 Mar 93 19:53 Subj : Lepidolite ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LEPIDOLITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Lepidolite a potassium, lithium, aluminum fluorsilicate mica. Its chemistry is complex: K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2. It is pink, lilac, yellowish, grayish white or a combination of all of these. The streak is colorless. It is one of the softer stones, with a hardness of 2-1/2 to 3. ENVIRONMENT: Lepidolite is confined to granite pegmatites, where it occurs either as fine-granular masses near the core of the pegmatite or as stubby or tabular crystals in cavities. It is commonly associated with microcline, quartz, and tourmaline. OCCURENCE: Large fine masses of lepidolite have been mined at the Stewart Pegmatite at Pala, and superb sharp crystals have been obtained from the Little Three Pegmatite near Ramona, both in San Diego Co., California. It has also been mined in substantial amounts in several New England states and in the Black Hills of South Dakota. NAME: The name comes from the Greek [lepidos], meaning 'scale', in allusion to the scaly aggregates in which the mineral commonly occurs. LEGEND and LORE: Lepidolite is a stone that could certainly be considered "new age" in the sense that it is just now coming into recognition by healers and magicians. There is no "past lore" on this stone, to the best of my knowledge. Part of this may be due to the fact, that it is native to the United States. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: "This stone soothes anger, hatred or any other negative emotion. To quiet the entire house, place lepidolite stones in a circle around a pink candle." (2) HEALING: Lepidolite is also know as the "Dream Stone". It will protect the individual from nightmares, especially those caused by stress or an upset in personal relationships. It can be used in the same types of circumstances as Kunzite, namely for manic depression or schizophrenia. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: This is one of the most soothing and relaxing stones I've ever held. It is a beauty to look at, and calms the mind enabling it to concentrate on the TRUE source of a problem...instead of running around in frantic circles accomplishing nothing. The more rubellite in the stone, the better it will help the heart and mind work together. NOTES: Lepidolite has been used as a source of lithium. The above description of the appearance of this stone may be deceiving, as I found Cunningham's to be, also. All of the specimens of this stone that I have seen so far have been grey to a pale lavendar grey with "sparkles" of the lithium mica embedded in it. The heart-shaped cabuchon that I have also has very distinctive crystals of rubellite (pink tourmaline) and veins of white running through it. I was originally looking for a MUCH brighter lavendar stone. It is unusual, also, to find specimens that are cut and polished. Usually the stone is too "crumbly" to take a good polish. However, it is equally handsome in rough form. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [40] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Wed 24 Mar 93 15:55 Subj : stone request ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ APOPHYLLITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Apophyllite is hydrous calcium potassium fluorsilicate which is often found with a small amount of iron and nickle. The chemistry is KCa4Si8O20(F,OH).8H2O. It ranges in color from clear thru white, gray, greenish, yellowish and reddish. The streak is white. Hardness is from 4-1/2 to 5. The crystals of this mineral are Tetragonal, usually cubelike or tabular, square in cross section. They will often have a pearly luster on one side. ENVIRONMENT: Apophyllite forms at low temperatures and is commonly found in cavities in basalt of volconic rock, where it is associated with zeolites and prehnite. OCCURENCE: There are many outstanding localities in North America where apophyllite can be collected. Excellent glassy crystals occur with prehnite in the basalt in the Watchung Mts., Passaic Co., New Jersey, and the same association has recenly been found in a diabase near Centreville, Fairfax Co. Virginia. Large glassy crystals have come from the copper mines on the Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan. NAME: The name comes from the Greek [apa], meaning 'off', and [phyllon], meaning 'leaf'. This refers to the the fact that the mineral flakes apart when heated in a flame. LEGEND, LORE, MAGICAL PROPERTIES and HEALING: I was unable to find anything in any of my sources for this mineral. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: This is not a mineral that I have in my collection, nor have I ever seen one in person. However, judging from from the information and the photos in the Audubon book, I can think of 2 possible uses. The first would be as a "heart stone". This would be to regulate and strengthen the heartbeat. In conjunction with this, I can see it used as a stone for atheletes, giving them stamina and strengthening the muscular structure. If the pearlesence of the stone was strong, I can also visualize it being used at the Transpersonal Point, in much the same manner as Moonstone. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [40] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Sun 28 Mar 93 18:48 Subj : Hematite ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ HEMATITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Hematite is a steel-grey, red, reddish brown, or black iron oxide. The chemistry is Fe203. One of the most unique things about this mineral is its streak, which is normally blood red, but sometimes cherry or brownish. The hardness is from 5 to 6. ENVIRONMENT: The former huge bodies of iron ore, composed largely of hematite, worked in the Lake Superior region are of sedimentary origin. Hematite has formed also in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It occurs with biotite, albite, and barite in carbonatites; with diopside and epidote in hornfels of contact and regional metamorphic rocks; with quartz and siderite in mesothermal and epithermal veins; and with fluorite, barite, and calcite in lode and disseminated replacement deposits. OCCURENCE: Hematite has been reported from many localities in North America. It occurs as dark reddish-brown reniform masses in the iron mines of Michigan and Minnesota, and on Aztec Peak, Gila Co., Arizona. Sharp, brilliant black hematite crystals occur with quartz near Bouse, Yuma Co., Arizona. NAME: The name "hematite" is from the Greek [haimatites,] meaning "bloodlike," which is in reference to the vivid red color of the powdered mineral. LEGEND and LORE: Hematite was used by Galen for inflamed eyelids and headaches, and by Pliny for blood disorders. Egyptians valued it as a cure for hysteria. Azchalias asserted that Hematite, when used as a talisman, procured for the wearer a favorable hearing of petitions addressed to kings and a fortunate issue of lawsuits and judgements. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Hematite has long been associated with psychic awareness. In addition, some people believe that it assists in astral travel. "A scrying: In a darkened room, light a red candle. Settle before it and hold a large piece of hematite so that the candle's flame is reflected on it. Gaze at the reflection and visualize a question. The answer will come to you." (Cunningham) HEALING: Hematite is a principal blood purifier among stone healers. It can be placed anywhere on the body for this purpose, or worn as a ring, pendant or necklace for continuious healing. It is also considered a grounding stone, which makes it useful for those people who have difficulty concentrating on the "here-and-now". Shamans historically have believed that Hematite, placed over the location of an illness, will draw the "spirit" of the illness out of the patient and into itself. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I use Hematite as a blood purifier, placeing it over the spleen, liver or kidneys as needed. I also use it often as a grounding stone, placing it near or on the feet before working on the higher Chakras. One interesting thing that I've noted on many occasions: Those interested in financial matters (usually those who want more money, but don't want to work very hard for it!) seem to be drawn to Hematite. Also those individuals with a high number of "eights" in their numerological charts seem to be drawn to this mineral. NOTES: Hematite is the principal ore of iron. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [40] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Mon 29 Mar 93 19:13 Subj : Azurite ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ AZURITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Azurite is a basic copper carbonate. The chemistry is Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2. It varies from a rather dark blue thru "azure" blue. The streak is blue and the hardness ranges from 3-1/2 to 4. ENVIRONMENT: Azurite is a secondary copper mineral and develops in the zone of alteration in all types of hydrothermal replacement deposits, where it commonly occurs with malachite, limonite, and chalcopyrite. OCCURENCE: The copper deposits at Tsumeb, South-West Africa, have yielded some of the finest Azurite crystals in the world. The copper deposits in Arizona and Utah that yielded many fine specimens of Malachite also yielded outstanding specimens of Azurite. Fine Azurite crystals have also been found inthe San Carlos Mine, Mazapil, Zacatecas, Mexico. NAME: The name is from the characteristic azure-blue color of the mineral. LEGEND and LORE: It is said that the priests and priestesses of ancient Egypt used this stone to enhance their spiritual consciousness. Edgar Cayce spoke of Azurite helping him attain a meditative state more easily. This mineral is associated with Sagittarius. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Azurite is associated with divination. When you are practicing precognition, hold a piece in your hand. This is a stone that likes to be touched...and touching it will help to release it's energies. HEALING: This stone is said to restructure molecules, revitalize the brain, rebuild gray matter and aid in developing embryonic babies in the womb. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I usually include Azurite in layouts that are for the purpose of increasing divination, or Third-Eye abilities. It is also useful at the Third Eye Chakra for making sense out of a very emotional situation. Very often, the Azurite found in the Southwestern part of the U.S. is mixed with Malachite. This results in a beautiful blue stone with small green marks on it. When cut and polished in a spherical shape, these remind one of a planet. They are soothing to look at and hold. NOTES: Azurite is an ore of copper and a minor ornamental stone. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Other material may be from "The Crystal Handbook" by Kevin Sullivan. 5. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [40] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Wed 31 Mar 93 19:57 Subj : Jade ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ TREMOLITE (JADE) SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Tremolite is a calcium, magnesium and iron silicate. When the iron content is high, it is called actinolite. The chemistry is Ca2(mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2. The streak is colorless, although the mineral itself can range in color from white to dark grey, yellowish, pink to lilac. We commonly tend to think of "jade" as green, but as you can see, it is actually available in many colors. The hardness is between 5 and 6. ENVIRONMENT: Tremolite is a product of metamorphism and occurs with calcite and grossular in hornfels of contact metamorphic rocks and with talc in serpentinites of hydrothermal metamorphic rocks. OCCURENCE: There are many localities where fine tremolite specimens may be obtained. Crystals of up to 3" in length occur inmarble at Haliburton and Wilberforce, Haliburton Co., Ontario and granular masses of pink tremolite (hexagonite) at De Kalb, St. Lawerence Co., New York. White and greenish crystals occur in calcite at Canaan, Litchfield Co., Connecticut. GEMSTONE DATA: The Amphibole mineral nephrite, which consists of combined tremolite and actinolite, is dense, compact, tough. Semitransparent to translucent varieties of nephrite are called [jade.] Nephrite jade colors are white, all shades of green, gray, grayish (with tinge of blue, red, or green), brown, and lavender. Value increases with transparency, intensity and evenness of color, and freedom from flaws. Jade is fashioned into beads, earrings, and cabochons for rings and brooches, or carved into ornamental or religious objects. Nephrite jade comes from Alaska, British Columbia, Wyoming, China and Siberia. NAME: Tremolite is from the occurence in Val Tremolo in the Swiss Alps. The word 'jade' is derived from the Spanish [pietra d'ijada] which means 'colic stone'. In China, where jade has been venerated for thousands of years, over a hundred different names are in use for different color varieties. LEGEND and LORE: Jade ornaments and implements of great antiquity have been discovered both in those parts of the world in which the mineral is found and in places far distant from these. It is the 'greenstone' so highly esteemed by the Maoris of New Zealand who carved it into pendants, sometimes representing their hero Tiki, and into chieftans' war clubs. It has been carved in Central America for well over a thousand years and the ancient Mayas prized it above gold. In ancient China a prospective bride would present her betrothed a jade butterfly to seal their engagement. Likewise the bridegroom would give his sweetheart a gift of jade before their wedding. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Jade is considered one of the most important symbols of purity and serenity. It is also revered as an ancient symbol of love. The Maoris regard Jade as a stone that brings luck, especially specimens that are dark olive-green in color. The ancient Chinese felt that Jade helps to inspire the mind to make quick and precise decisions. The ancient trader would often hold this gem in the palm of his right hand while he engaged in business transactions. Carved into a scarab, Jade is said to bring its owner a long and prosperous life. It is also said that wearing Jade while gardening will improve the health of the plants. Similarly, small pieces of Jade can be buried along the perimeter for this purpose. It is worn for protection during defensive magical workings. HEALING: Jade has been called "colic stone", "spleen stone" and "stone of the loins". It is said that by tying jade to the arm, stones in the kidneys can be expelled. The ancient Greeks used this mineral for healing ailments of the eyes. Wearing Jade helps the body to heal itself while working on the underlying, nonphysical problems which cause the disease in the first place. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I use Jade as a Heart Chakra stone, for those that feel threatened or frightened. I've also used it to control swelling of various glands in the face and neck, by placing it directly over the gland. Before I had a piece of Malachite, I used it on my broken arm. It seemed to help the break heal. It was NOT successful on the damage done to the nerves and tendons in my wrist, however. The Malachite worked better. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Additional information about the Name and Legends and Lore are from "Gemstones" by E. H. Rutland. 3. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 4. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 5. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Wed 07 Apr 93 19:08 Subj : Obsidian ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ OBSIDIAN SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Obsidian occurs as volcanic lava flows that are thick and of limited area. Its black, glassy, lustrous, and often flow-banded appearance makes it rather easy to distinguish from the other volcanic rocks with which it is commonly associated. This mineral forms when a silica-rich magma of granitic composition flows onto the earth's surface, where it solidifies before minerals can develop and crystallize. It is, therefore, an amorphous solid or glass rather than an aggregate of minerals. The hardness of Obsidian is between 6 and 7; it will scratch window glass. Although generally black, it is more or less smoky along translucent to transparent edges; other colors are gray, reddish brown, mahogany and dark green. When it has small white "flower" designs in it, it is called Snowflake Obsidian. It is also possible to find pieces with a sheen, or chatoyance. This is often called Rainbow Obsidian. ENVIRONMENT: Obsidian is an environment for very few minerals. Lithophysae and spherulites may contain small but beautiful crystals of feldspar, tridymite, and cristobalite. OCCURENCE: Some locations of Obsidian bodies are California (Inyo, Imperial, and Modoc Cos.), Oregon (Crater Lake), Wyoming (Yellowstone Park), and Mexico (near Pachuca.) NAME: The name is dervied from the latin name for the mineral, [obsio.] LEGEND and LORE: Polished pieces of black Obsidian have been used for Scrying. Primitive peoples once valued obsidian highly, chipping and flaking it into knives, spearheads, and many other implements with razor-sharp edges resulting from the intersecting conchoidal fractures. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Obsidian is a very protective stone. It is also associated with the inner mysteries of the Goddess, symbolizing entrance to the labyrinth, the womb or the subconscious self. HEALING: Because of its protective qualities, Obsidian is a good stone for those who are soft-hearted and gentle. It will help to guard them against abuse. This stone cleanses toxins from the liver, so it is also good for people who are exposed to environmental pollutants. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: This is the "balance" stone for Clear Quartz Crystals. We jokingly refer to it around here as a "dark sucker"...meaning it will absorb all sorts of negative things. It is also a grounding stone, and I use it at the Base Chakra (below the feet) at the beginning of a layout to keep my client "grounded". In India, the women wear obsidian toe rings for the same purpose. I use Black Obsidian in conjunction with Quartz. If I'm not using Clear Quartz, I use Snowflake Obsidian. I also have a piece of Rainbow Obsidian, but it is relatively new and I haven't finished "conversing" with it, so I have no advice as to how to use it...at the moment. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Thu 08 Apr 93 20:00 Subj : Brown (Picture) Jasper ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ BROWN (PICTURE) JASPER SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Brown Jasper, sometimes called "picture" Jasper because of the beautiful variations in coloring, is a type of Chalcedony. It is closely related to Quartz, with the chemistry of SiO2. The color variations are from trace amounts of other minerals, usually iron and aluminum. The hardness is 7. ENVIRONMENT: Chalcedony is formed in several environments, generally near the surface of the earth where temperatures and pressures are relatively low. It commonly forms in the zone of alteration of lode and massive hydrothermal replacement deposits and as bodies of chert in chemical sedimentary rocks. OCCURENCE: Montana, Utah and Wyoming are prolific locations for Brown Jasper in the U.S. In addition, fine specimens have come from Brazil, Uruguay and Egypt. Other colors and forms of Jasper are abundant in California, Texas and Arkansas. NAME: The name Chalcedony is from Chalcedon, an ancient Greek city of Asia Minor. LEGEND and LORE: Beautiful Jasper, with light and dark brown markings was referred to as "Egyptian Marble". Various Native American tribes used Jasper as a rubbing stone and some called it "the rain bringer". MAGICAL PROPERTIES: Brown Jasper is balancing and grounding. This stone, carved into an arrowhead, is worn to attract luck. It is a good stone to use after completing a ritual to help you regain your center and become grounded. HEALING: Jasper is stabilizing. It will help to reduce insecurity, fear and guilt. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I use a piece of Montana Picture Jasper, which is mostly brown and tan with a slight bit of sky and navy blue as a strong grounding stone for those who have an excess of energy at the Splenic Chakra. I've also used the stone as a basis for a "journey"...The stone looks like a scene of the Rocky Mountains. Finally, I've used Picture Jasper as a psychological tool: I will ask someone who is "looking for an answer" to gaze into the stone and describe all the symbols they see. Then I work with the client to form the "symbols" into some sort of answer. NOTES: Agate, Jasper, Flint, Sardonyx, and onyx are all forms of Chalcedony. In addition, particular colors of Chalcedony have specific names, such as Heliotrope, Bloodstone, Chrysophrase and Moss Agate. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Mon 19 Apr 93 21:02 Subj : Tigereye ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ TIGEREYE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Tigereye is a type of quartz that is chatoyant from inclusions of crocidolite abestos. It is lusterous yellow to brown, vitreous, greasy luster and the streak is white. The hardness is 7. ENVIRONMENT: Quartz is an important rock-forming mineral and developed in many different environments. OCCURENCE: Beautiful Tigereye comes from Austria and South-West Africa, mainly near Griquatown. GEMSTONE INFORMATION: This stone is normally tumbled or cut into cabochons. It is very rare to find a piece larger than 2" across. NAME: The name is from the appearance of the stone, banded browns and golden yellows. LEGEND and LORE: The various "eye" stones have always been considered strong talismans. It was believed that a person possessing one could see everything, even behind closed doors. Egyptians carved it into god figurines, to represent divine vision. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: "Tiger's-eye is a fine stone for promoting wealth and money. A simple money spell involves empowering several tiger's-eys with your need for money. Use them to surround a green candle. Light the candle and visualize." (4) HEALING: This stone is soothing for emotional turmoil. It will help you to see things in the best light. It is optimistic! It also promotes courage and strength. This stone is also used traditionally, for diseases of the eye. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I use Tigereye as a stone to help my clients "see clearly" emotional issues that they are having trouble dealing with. Because it allows them to look at things both objectively and optimistically...and hopefully learn whatever lessons are needed and move onward. In addition, I find that Tigereye can aid in visualization, especially during past-life regressions. NOTES: The Crocidolite that causes the chatoyancy in Tigereye is normally blue. Oxidation changes it to a brown color. (Unoxidized Tigereye is called Hawkseye, and is a blue chatoyant mineral.) -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Precious and semi-precious gemstone information may come from "Gemstones" by E. H. Rutland. 3. Other Precious and semi-precious gemstone information may come from "Gem Cutting", sec. ed., by John Sinkankas. 4. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 5. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 6. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Sun 18 Apr 93 21:33 Subj : Labradorite ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LABRADORITE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Labradorite is from the plagioclase feldspar group, a mixture of sodium and calcium aluminum silicates. It is gray, green, bluish, and sometimes a play of various colors; vitreous; frequently pearly on cleavage. Chemical composition: (Na,Ca)AlSi3O8. The streak is white. It's hardness is 6. Labradorite is one of the lime-soda feldspars, along with bytownite and anorthite. Crystals are uncommon, but when found in fine grade, they are pale yellow. ENVIRONMENT: The plagioclase feldspars are important rock-forming minerals and are found in many kinds of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Labradorite occurs with hornblende and augite in gabbro of plutonic rocks; also with hornblende in basalt of volcanic rocks. OCCURENCE: Fine Labradorite showing beautiful colors comes from East Labrador. In addition, it has been found in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, in Essex and Lewis counties. Some has been found in Findland and a fine grade in Madagascar. Pale yellow crystals have been found in Utah, California, Oregon and Texas. GEMSTONE INFORMATION: Only the finest Labradorite, showing distinct change of color (labrador-escence), is considered a gemstone. Greenish, bluish, yellowish, or reddish change of color may occur; blues and greens are most common, and the color change may be only in patches. There are some fine-grade, pale yellow crystals that can be faceted. However, most crystals found are "damaged" or flawed with cracks, rendering them uncuttable. NAME: Labradorite is named after the location in which it was first discovered, Labrador. LEGEND and LORE: I did not find any reference to this stone in any of my sources. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: This stone is not mentioned in Cunningham or Mella, or Fernie. HEALING: "Gem healers claim it elevates the wearer's consciousness and connection with the energies of the universe." (8) PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I have two small pieces of Labradorite. I use them at the Third-Eye Chakra because of their blue/bluish "sheen". I can't say that the results have been notable, since I've used them in conjunction with other stones. Sometimes, if I am going to participate in a "meditation circle" where I know I will be doing "readings", I will stick the larger piece in my pocket. NOTES: This stone is sometimes called "Spectrolite", in the non-crystalized form. (8) Labradorite is sometimes carved into ashtrays and various decorative objects. A translucent labradorite forms luscious black moonstones. (2) -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Precious and semi-precious gemstone information may come from "Gemstones" by E. H. Rutland. 3. Other Precious and semi-precious gemstone information may come from "Gem Cutting", sec. ed., by John Sinkankas. 4. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 5. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 6. Some of the healing information may come from "A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 7. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. 8. "The Crystal Handbook" by Kevin Sullivan. --- Ä [41] PODS Crystals, Gem, Gematra (93:9300/0) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ LAPIDAR Ä From : Tandika Star 93:9600/5 Tue 20 Apr 93 19:47 Subj : Aventurine ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ AVENTURINE SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION: Grayish, yellowish, brownish, or green quartz with small platy mica inclusions (hematite or geothite also) is called Aventurine. The hardness is 7 and the streak is white. ENVIRONMENT: Quartz is an important rock-forming mineral and developed in many different environments. OCCURENCE: Aventurine is found in Brazil, India and Russia. NAME: Unknown. LEGEND and LORE: Aventurine was revered by the ancient Tibetians. They used it to represent the "eyes" in sacred statues, thus symbolizing increased divinatory powers. MAGICAL PROPERTIES: This stone is considered to be a gambler's talisman. It is said that it will attract money. It is considered a "lucky" stone. HEALING: This stone is associated with the Thymus Gland. It has been traditionally used for improving eyesight and healing diseases of the eyes. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: I use Aventurine as a Heart Chakra stone, to balance such stones as Rhodonite. In addition, I recommend it to those who are starting out on new paths or adventures because it is protective, but opens the eyes to "new horizons". NOTES: The yellow/brown form of Aventurine is from Russia. It is almost impossible to find anymore. -------bibliography------- 1. Scientific, Environment, Occurence and Name are from (or paraphrased from) "The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals". 2. Legends and Lore, Magical Properties are from "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic", by Scott Cunningham. 3. Some of the healing information may come from "Color and Crystals, A Journey Through the Chakras" by Joy Gardner. 4. Personal Experience is from MY personal experience, journals and notebooks, by Tandika Star. ---