The Directory

Each of the crystals in the directory is identified by its main colour and is cross-referenced to other crystals of the same kind that share characteristics. For example, the balanced energies of all agates can be found under the main heading.

For each crystal, the associated herbs, flowers and so on are listed. These correspondences are drawn from a variety of traditions and the practice of modern healers, as well as from my personal research, healing and magical work.

Many of the zodiac references are based on ancient associations. These astrological strengths indicate not only that a crystal is especially powerful for a person born under that sign, but also that the crystals’ powers are concentrated during that astrological period.

In some cases, the references are straightforward and a crystal will be ruled by the traditional planet or element. More complex crystals may display more than one astrological energy line and another planet or even two planets may contribute to its healing qualities, while it may display properties of two elements.

As you work with the crystals you may find different herbs or oils amplify the healing powers of a crystal, or that your own guardian angel is a better focus than the ones listed. Crystal work is personal, based on the interaction of the crystal, the user and the energies of the patient. So experiment and change anything that is not right for you.

Clear quartz

A clear quartz cluster will promote a calm and harmonious atmosphere at home or in the workplace.

Clear quartz contains pure light and undiluted life force, bringing vitality, joy and health and driving away all fears.

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide, crystalline quartz. Six-sided or faced in its natural formation

Colour: Clear, glassy, sparkles in the sun

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Candle Colour: Gold

Guardian Angel: Michael

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Bay, frankincense, orange, rosemary and St John’s wort

Flowers: Golden chrysanthemum, marigold and sunflower

Associated crystals: Diamond, white sapphire and white topaz

See also

Rose, smoky, rutilated and blue quartz

Mythology and history

Pure clear quartz is the most common mineral on earth. The word crystal comes from krystallos (clear ice in Ancient Greek) – celestial water from the heavens that the deities froze so it would never melt.

According to legend, Hercules dropped the crystal of truth from Mount Olympus and it shattered into the millions of pieces that we find today as clear quartz crystal. That is the reason a person using a crystal for scrying can never lie (see spheres).

Australian Aboriginals called quartz the living spirit and mekigars (magic men and women) had crystal quartz inserted into their skin by, it was said, Balame, the All Father, which gave them magical and healing powers. In the Orient, crystal quartz was regarded as the essence of the dragon; it was considered to be pure chi, or life force.

Divinatory significance

Quartz is the stone of the sun, of health, wealth and happiness. When crystal quartz appears in a reading you can be optimistic, especially about a planned new beginning.

Healing and the environment

Clear crystal quartz is probably the most versatile of all crystals and can be used for any healing, energizing or cleansing work. In its clear form, quartz is pure yang energy, associated with masculine properties, light, an active response and the power of the sun.

Quartz crystal absorbs energy from sunlight and the life force in flowers, trees and all plants, and can draw down divine light. It will store and concentrate this energy, to be released in healing or magic or just as pure vitality. The white light radiates through the body as the seven chakra colours, each ray unblocking and energizing its own associated chakra. Crystal points are most frequently used for healing.

To restore and maintain health, for nine consecutive days drink water in which nine tiny quartz crystals have been boiled. This is an ancient Celtic practice.

Clear crystal quartz will absorb negativity from the atmosphere and transform it into rays of healing and positive feelings. Even the tiniest piece will send healing vibrations to the planet creating a world community based on tolerance and diversity. Bury tiny quartz crystals in soil to regenerate wasteland and help bring back wildlife.

Uses at work and home

Crystal clusters in the centre of a room help people to live and work together harmoniously. They instil a sense of optimism and clear purpose and make others more receptive to innovation if they are by nature pessimistic and closed to new ideas.

A quartz cluster is an excellent antidote to harsh lighting at work and will enliven a home that is always dark, even in summer. Some people keep a special personal crystal quartz wrapped in silk or a tiny purse for their own private work.

Children and animals

Give a newborn child his or her special quartz crystal in a purse that can be put in the nursery and kept throughout life. It will increase in power and serve as a personal guide, talisman and source of light and hope. Place quartz beneath an old animal’s bed to make it more energetic, playful and healthier.

Psychic associations

Crystal quartz amplifies any innate psychic, magical or healing power and is traditionally used to increase the power of prayer, especially for healing. It will also act as a channel for angelic powers and spirit guides. Hold a quartz crystal to send telepathic messages. A clear crystal pendulum will aid in making decisions and will also trace fluid – useful if looking for the source of an oil leak in your car or finding a blockage in a pipe. More esoterically, a crystal pendulum will identify energy pathways in the body and unblock and energize chakras.

Recharging its energies

Leave it in midday sunlight among greenery.

Milky quartz

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide. The cloudiness is caused by tiny inclusions of fluids that are trapped in the crystal during formation. Quite greasy to touch

Colour: Clouded white

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Muriel

Chakra: Sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Jasmine, lemon balm, peach, rose and vanilla

Flowers: Lily, narcissus and white lotus

Associated crystals: Moonstone, pearl and water opal

Mythology and history

These cloudier crystals, like their opaque sisters (snow quartz), are female, yin stones associated with the moon, see-through clouds and the moon goddesses. More opalescent types can be called girosol quartz, though this is a name that is also given to a very rare clear quartz.

Divinatory significance

There are new beginnings and new opportunities coming into your life, but you will see the changes gradually over the coming weeks and months.

Healing and the environment

Cloudy quartz will relieve blurred vision, headaches or a loss of balance. It can be used to draw out pain or to unblock a chakra (clear quartz can then energize) and to slow down the body and mind when they are running on empty but rest will not come. Cloudy quartz also alleviates acute anxiety states, panic attacks and phobias.

Uses at work and home

Every modern household should have a cloudy as well as a clear quartz to create a boundary between the world and the home and to encourage family members to spend time just being together rather than always indulging in frantic activity. If your workplace is always mayhem, with clamouring voices, constantly ringing phones and clattering faxes, use cloudy quartz to blur the edges and muffle sounds.

Children and animals

Give cloudy quartz to sensitive children who do not enjoy the rough and tumble of the playground or playgroup: it will help them to create a private space. Attach a tiny crystal to your dog lead if you have to walk your pet by busy roads.

Psychic associations

Trace the labyrinthine pathways within the stone to mesmerize yourself and allow your mind to slip into gentle meditation.

Recharging its energies

Recharge milky quartz with gentle sunlight on a misty morning.

Snow quartz

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide.

The crystals can be quite chunky

Colour: Polar white.

Opaque

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: White

Guardian Angel: Shalgiel

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Cypress, angelica, cedar, jasmine and mimosa

Flowers: Glastonbury Thorn blossom, snowdrop and white crocus

Associated crystals: Sardonyx, snowflake obsidian and white opal

Mythology and history

It is the stone of the snow moon, the moon that heralds the month known by Amerindians as Gnawing on Bones, the time of the deep snow. A yin stone, it is associated with winter.

Divinatory significance

Let unprofitable situations run their course and build up your strength for the future.

Healing and the environment

Snow quartz strengthens bones, bone marrow and teeth and aids calcium absorption. It improves lactation and helps a baby feed.

Uses at work and home

Snow quartz gives you resourcefulness and stamina for tasks you may not relish. It favours ventures where you rely on yourself, whether in filling in your tax forms or finding a new source of income. It will help you to survive tricky patches in your life until luck smiles on you again.

Children and animals

It soothes colicky, fretful or teething babies. It gives strength to the runt of any animal litter.

Psychic associations

It can gradually change your fortunes. Use in ice magic: melt ice or snow to soften a cold relationship or release your frozen feelings.

Recharging its energies

Wash snow quartz in melted ice or ice cubes.

Faden quartz

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide; crystal quartz. Usually flat (tabular) crystals with straight or curving threadlike lines at the centre

Colour: Clear with white line(s)

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Candle Colour: White

Guardian Angel: Charoum

Chakra: All

Herbs, incenses and oils: Almond, juniper, nutmeg, sweet tobacco and tangerine

Flowers: Edelweiss, red and white carnations

Associated crystals: Rutilated quartz, tourmalated quartz and tree agate

Mythology and history

It is a symbol of wounded heroes, or people who have overcome tragedy or disability.

Divinatory significance

Time is a healer; what you have lost recently is outweighed by new wisdom, with which you can help others avoid similar pitfalls.

Healing and the environment

The ‘mender crystal’ repairs bones, cartilages, torn muscles, broken blood vessels or a grieving heart. It generates self-healing abilities and the will to recover. Use it to heal the damage done to the earth by careless humans.

Uses at work and home

Faden quartz helps you put things right, reaching compromises at work or turning past mistakes into future triumphs.

Children and animals

Faden quartz will teach children to make do and mend and sometimes accept less than designer chic. It relieves lameness in animals.

Psychic associations

A crystal for working with the inner world and for exploring past lives to understand present dilemmas and fears. Potent for all ending rites, for example to mark a divorce.

Recharging its energies

Encircle with red and white flowers overnight.

Phantom quartz

Properties

Type: A clear quartz crystal in which a phantom crystal appears

Colour: Transparent clear crystal with a whitish or pale-grey ethereal crystal within

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Gabriel

Chakra: Crown/brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Jasmine, coconut, eucalyptus, gardenia and lotus

Flowers: Snowdrop, lily of the valley and mimosa

Associated crystals: Moonstone, selenite and milky (clouded) white quartz

Mythology and history

Phantom quartz is formed when the growth of quartz crystal is interrupted and a shadowy, smaller crystal, like a veil within the larger host, appears. Sometimes another coloured crystal can grow around it, for example rose quartz and green chlorite. Often the phantom quartz forms a pyramid shape. A wonder of nature, in myth phantom quartz crystals have been thought to house fairies, angels or earth spirits. They are also the traditional tool of ghost hunters.

Divinatory significance

Focus on your inner world and for the moment keep your own counsel about matters dear to your heart.

Healing and the environment

Phantom quartz will help a healer to see psychically the root of problems that may be very different from the symptoms. Use it to help conditions such as ME for which the cause is not understood by medical science and for psychosomatic conditions. It assists tissue and organs deep within the body. Phantom quartz can encourage people to talk about deeply buried sorrows and is helpful for unborn children.

Uses at work and home

Keep phantom quartz in a room where you sense a paranormal presence, to help the ghost to move on peacefully. At work, use it for projects or long-term ventures whose outcome is unclear and for taking over from a person who has done a job for years.

Children and animals

A pregnant woman can place it over her womb to aid communication with the foetus. Children can talk to their guardian angel within. It will drive away fears of paranormal visitations (except from deceased kindly great-grandparents). This stone confuses animals.

Psychic associations

Look through it to see benign ghosts at old houses or ancient sites. Good for connecting with your spirit guides and with earth and air nature essences.

Recharging its energies

Use steam from a hot drink, bath or kettle, being careful not to burn yourself.

Rainbow quartz

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide. Clear quartz with prismatic fractures in the crystal

Colour: When light catches the fracture(s) it forms rainbows

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water/fire

Candle Colour: Silver or gold

Guardian Angel: Matriel

Chakra: All

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lemon, frankincense, myrrh, orange and sandalwood

Flowers: Roses of different colours

Associated crystals: Pearl, rainbow obsidian and any precious opal

Mythology and history

Like rainbow opal, rainbow quartz is the stone of Iris, Greek goddess of the rainbow, and the Hindu goddess Maya Shakti, who created the wondrous colours of nature behind her seven rainbow veils. Rainbow quartz was a bead which fell from the necklace of the Great Mother as she laughed. It formed Bifrost, the rainbow bridge over which the Viking deities travelled to Asgard.

Divinatory significance

As the wish crystal, rainbow quartz promises that happiness and the restoration or increases of fortune in the way you most need are within your grasp.

Healing and the environment

Rainbow crystal healing in sunlight will cleanse, balance and energize all the chakras and fill the aura with light. It transforms areas of pain, darkness or blockage into free-flowing light energy, panic states into calm and depression into happiness. It helps the body perform its routine transformative processes more efficiently, especially regarding blood oxygenation and blood sugar levels, the regeneration of cells and tissue, especially the liver, pancreas, the stomach and intestines, bowel and bladder.

Uses at work and home

Rainbow quartz will breathe new vitality into any situation where expectations were not met, whether the disappointment was in love or career or creative ventures that proved less fulfilling and rewarding than anticipated. Use it also to forgive the failings of others.

Children and animals

Rainbow crystals comfort crying babies and disappointed children. Use one to uplift an animal who has lost its will to live.

Psychic associations

Rainbow quartz is the best of all wish crystals for focusing on dreams and desires. Use it in rituals for rekindling love or passion, and for prosperity or good fortune after loss. It is an excellent first choice for channelling wisdom from angels or bringers of light from higher dimensions. It is associated with the rainbow goddesses in various cultures.

Recharging its energies

Sprinkle it with water in shining sunlight.

Tourmalated quartz

Properties

Type: Ring silicate in quartz. Needles or rutiles of black tourmaline in clear quartz. Occasionally green or even pink tourmaline inclusions

Colour: Clear transparent with sparkling black tourmaline

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Planet: Pluto

Element: Water/air

Candle Colour: White

Guardian Angel: Sataral

Chakra: Crown/brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Cypress, juniper, mugwort, rosewood and wintergreen

Flowers: Hyacinth, sea lavender and thistle

Associated crystals: Rutilated quartz, snowflake obsidian and tree agate

Mythology and history

Like all crystals with inclusions, tourmalated quartz has always been an object of wonder. This black within white stone has come to represent both a doorway into hidden realms and the triumph of light over darkness, day over night, good over evil. In more modern Westernized thought, it is seen to represent the balancing of polarities, yin and yang, as it always has in Oriental philosophy.

Divinatory significance

Acknowledge and express what you really feel and not what you think is expected of you. The fears in your mind will then dissolve in the clear light of day.

Healing and the environment

Tourmalated quartz restores balance to the body, mind and spirit, unclogs arteries and heals scars and lesions both in the body and on the skin. It relieves sinus-related headaches. It helps people suffering from Aspergers Syndrome and other personality problems that make social interaction difficult. It aids recovery after road accidents.

Uses at work and home

A good crystal for clearing away cobwebs left from the past at home and for neutralizing unfriendly ghostly or poltergeist activity. At work, use it to dispense with pettiness among colleagues and to clear the air about long-standing minor resentments. It also offers great resources of inner strength when you are tired but cannot rest.

Children and animals

It helps over-sensitive children and animals to tolerate noise or sudden movements.

Psychic associations

Focus on tourmalated quartz in candlelight to aid astral projection or hold when reading the I Ching. Use in knot rituals when you are binding others from harming the vulnerable.

Recharging its energies

Set between a dark and a light candle and allow them to burn through.

Moonstone

Moonstone is a magical crystal that increases in power and translucence as the moon waxes. It is the stone of dreams and inner visions.

Properties

Type: Feldspar

Colour: Translucent white, cream, peach, pink, grey and, less commonly blue, all with an iridescent shimmer

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Gabriel

Chakra: Sacral and brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Jasmine, lemon, mimosa, myrrh and wintergreen

Flowers: Lotus, poppy and lily

Associated crystals: Opal, pearl and selenite

See also

Rainbow moonstone

Mythology and history

Because from early times the moon was associated with female reproductive cycles and the moon goddesses were associated with love and fertility, the moonstone is the most powerful of all fertility crystals.

The Romans thought moonstone was formed out of pure moonlight because of its silvery gleaming hue. It is the stone of moon goddesses everywhere, especially the Greek moon and love goddess, Aphrodite, and Selene, the Greco-Roman full moon goddess. According to legend, blue moonstones, the most rare and precious moonstones, are washed up on shore only on the night of the blue moon, the second full moon to fall in the same month.

Throughout the Orient and in Europe, the moonstone is associated with love and was worn to attract a lover. In India, lovers spoke their vows over matching moonstones empowered by the light of the full moon to ensure continuing love and fidelity so long as the moon is in the sky.

Moonstone is believed to absorb the powers of the moon, becoming deeper in colour, more translucent and more powerful for healing as the moon waxes until it reaches full moon. As the moon wanes, the moonstone becomes paler and releases gentler energy, encouraging rest and withdrawal from frantic activity.

Divinatory significance

Trust your intuition rather than external appearances when making a decision. Listen especially to your dreams. Others may take a less than open approach. Beware of taking the path of least resistance or the easiest route.

Healing and the environment

Moonstone is especially healing for women, though it helps with hormonal and thyroid problems with both sexes. For women it eases troubles with fluid retention, PMT, menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, the menopause and fertility. Moonstone helps to lessen mood swings and prevents overreacting to situations and the pressures of others. It relieves insomnia, nightmares and hormonal and stress-related headaches.

Moonstone is associated with the growth of plants. Bury one in the soil when planting herbs in the three days before the full moon – the traditional time for peak growth.

Uses at work and home

A dish of moonstones in the main sitting area at home helps to ease the tensions of the day and to mark the transition between the world of work and home. A friend to shift workers and those whose jobs involve constant travelling and irregular hours, moonstone helps the body clock to adjust.

Children and animals

Moonstone is a favourite with children. It prevents night terrors and helps wakeful children establish a regular sleep pattern. Moonstone will promote calm in hyperactive children by helping them to get in touch with natural rhythms.

Moonstones are beloved of cats, and sometimes those with ‘eye’ markings are called cat’s eyes. A moonstone near the cat bed will prevent the cat from straying too far at night.

Protective functions

Moonstones protect travellers, especially those who travel at night and on the sea. Frequent travellers should keep one in the glove box of a car for safe night driving and as a protection against road rage. Other travellers can keep a moonstone in their luggage or in a small charm bag.

Psychic associations

As one of the most magical stones, the moonstone plays a central part in allowing positive energies to flow in rituals, especially moon magic, and for developing psychic abilities in a safe, gradual way. During the full and waning moon, and for all readings at night, moonstone is a powerful trigger for divination and prophecy.

For personal divination, ask a question and drop five moonstones into a crystal bowl of water lit by the moon or by silver candles. The ripples as each falls into the water will suggest an image in your mind’s eye and the five images will answer your question. Alternatively, place a moonstone on your brow before sleep while you ask your question. The answer will appear in a dream.

You can substitute a moonstone for rose quartz in the fertility ritual.

Recharging its energies

On the night of the full moon, leave your crystals in a dish from moonrise to moon set.

Rainbow moonstone

Properties

Type: Particularly opalescent feldspar. Lustrous

Colour: Often white, cream or with a blue tinge. It shimmers with rainbow brilliance in light

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Gabriel

Chakra: Sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lemon balm, coconut, lotus, mimosa and papyrus

Flowers: Jasmine, magnolia and white water lilies

Associated crystals: Rainbow quartz, pearl and precious opals

Mythology and history

Believed in Classical times by such writers as the Roman Pliny to absorb moon- and starlight, rainbow moonstone is the original mood stone, increasing in translucence or becoming dull in response to the underlying mood of the person carrying or wearing it. (This happens to some extent with all moonstones.)

The iridescence is caused by what may appear to be insect-like inclusions: these are in fact tiny prismatic fractures that reflect rainbows. Moonstones, especially rainbow ones, are given on the thirteenth wedding anniversary to counter fears of bad luck.

Divinatory significance

You may want to try new methods of psychic work or divination. If in doubt, begin with dream interpretation.

Healing and the environment

Rainbow moonstone is much more gentle than rainbow quartz and so is helpful in cases where a person has low resistance or their immune system is not working properly. It alleviates postoperative stress for women who have had surgery relating to their breasts, ovaries or womb and helps with any scarring. It is excellent for people who harm themselves or consider doing so as a cry for help.

Rainbow moonstone will aid all places torn apart by war or internal abuses of power.

Uses at work and home

Rainbow moonstone is protective for all who live in rural or remote areas. It helps both men and women who work irregular hours to adjust their body clocks. It relieves jet lag when flying overnight and long distances.

Children and animals

Rainbow moonstone improves speech problems and learning difficulties in children. It also helps the conservation of butterflies, moths and dragonflies.

Psychic associations

Moonstone is a wish stone for long-term projects. Use it also in love rituals, in ceremonies to increase inner radiance and for all full-moon magic.

Recharging its energies

Leave it under the light of the full moon, or as near to the full moon as you can.

Apophyllite

Properties

Type: Sheet silicate, striated, cube-like and glassy. Before separation, crystals can look flower- or plant-like. Can be sparkling. Broken surfaces shimmer like mother-of-pearl

Colour: Colourless/white but can take on the colour of other minerals, pale pink, pale green, blue-green, yellowish and transparent

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Lemon yellow

Guardian Angel: Akriel or Livet

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lemon, bergamot, lemongrass, lime and rosemary

Flowers: Lavender, lily of the valley and flowering mint

Associated crystals: Danburite, faden quartz and prehnite

Mythology and history

Apophyllite was discovered at the beginning of the nineteenth century. According to the Gaia hypothesis, mother earth revealed this crystal so that its energies might counter the more materialistic attitudes arising out of the Victorian Industrial Revolution and colonization, while at the same time encouraging the spirit of discovery.

Divinatory significance

Now is the time to formulate long-term plans about your future and make commitments. Do not be distracted by the lure of short-term gains or instant fulfilment.

Healing and the environment

Apophyllite is a regulator crystal, helping the heart to beat strongly and regularly and encouraging the body to function like a well-tuned engine. It also brings mental clarity, improved memory and concentration and increased optimism.

Uses at work and home

Apophyllite is good for efficient organization at home and work and so is helpful for planning any major life changes that will have long-term repercussions, whether buying a house, becoming pregnant, undertaking a major training course or entering a structured career path. It will help you to prioritize your responsibilities and to fine-tune the details so that you are confident of success. It is an excellent crystal for those who job share, for people returning to work after an absence, for inventors, accountants and book-keepers, long-distance athletes and those making long-term investments.

Children and animals

Apophyllite helps older children to plan examination courses and to save money. It is helpful for working or show horses.

Psychic associations

Use the crystal for deep meditation, astral projection, for improving clairvoyance through scrying, for past-life recall, especially of old talents and languages, and for remembering your dreams. Use it also for invoking pyramid-healing energies (some crystals can be found as pyramids) and for work with angels, spirit guides and with power animals.

Recharging its energies

Use sunlight to recharge apophyllite.

Clear fluorite

Properties

Type: Halide/fluorspar

Colour: Its purest form is colourless. Often twin crystals

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: White

Guardian Angel: Vocatiel

Chakra: Brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lily of the valley, chamomile, lemon verbena and yarrow

Flowers: Bluebell, harebell and wild daffodil

Associated crystals: Apophyllite, milky quartz and water opal

See also

Green and purple fluorite

Mythology and history

Though often used as a diamond simulant, white fluorite has none of the greed associated with diamonds that has led to diamonds being stolen or people being killed for their possession. Although fluorite has been around for some time, it is nevertheless one of mother Gaia’s gifts to the New Age as a spiritual substitute for the diamond.

Divinatory significance

Matters are becoming much clearer and you will soon have no doubts about which option or person to choose to make you happy.

Healing and the environment

Clear fluorite increases the flow of the life force through all creation. This gentle but powerful healer strengthens teeth and bones, improves eyesight and relieves problems with the sinuses, spleen, skin and bones. It encourages the growth of healthy cells and all connective tissue, fights colds and eases arthritis. It increases the production of breast milk and aids a new mother’s recovery after a more complex birth, such as a Caesarean.

Uses at work and home

A stone of cooperation, clear fluorite nevertheless cuts through woolly thinking and vague plans or promises so that necessary tasks and projects are set in motion with a definite time scale for completion.

Children and animals

Clear fluorite can heal young children and animals that might find the more intense clear white stones a shock to the system.

Psychic associations

If you have not prayed or explored your psychic nature since childhood, use clear fluorite as a channelling stone for prayer or spiritual disciplines. It is good for increasing the telepathic links between mothers and children of all ages.

Recharging its energies

Use running water, best of all by moonlight.

Diamond

Properties

Type: Carbon. It is 150 times harder than any other mineral

Colour: Usually clear

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Candle Colour: Gold

Guardian Angel: Asmodiel

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Bay, frankincense, lime, neroli and ylang ylang

Flowers: Sunflower, white roses and white lotus

Associated crystals: Crystal quartz, Herkimer diamond and zircon

Mythology and history

According to Aristotle, Alexander the Great first discovered diamonds in a valley guarded by snakes. He ordered his men to polish their shields so that the snakes saw their own reflections and, thinking they were enemies, stung themselves to death. Another Greek myth relates that diamonds were fragments of stars. Cupid’s arrows were reputedly tipped with diamonds, leading to its association with love. Diamonds are associated with the sixtieth wedding anniversary.

Divinatory significance

Diamond is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Diamond purifies the body and detoxifies the whole system, dispersing any negativity and integrating the mind, body and spirit. It increases the healthy functioning of the brain, affecting both the skull bones and brain cells, and balances the hemispheres, clearing anxiety and neuroses and relieving depression. Diamond also increases female fertility.

Uses at home and work

At work, diamond increases the ability to learn new skills and information quickly and to think objectively.

Diamonds may seem cloudy if you become overheated emotionally or if mental and physical functions go into overload. This can be a good signal that you need to slow down in life and take things more easily.

Children and animals

It is not suitable for children or animals.

Psychic associations

Use diamond for contacting angels and devas and for increasing the power of prayer. Magically, diamond enhances clairvoyance. You can use diamond for scrying, both by candlelight and in sunlight.

Use diamond in love, fidelity and prosperity rituals and to discover the truth about a matter. If you wish to achieve fame, wearing diamonds will enhance your aura of success and make others notice you. To bring faithful love, surround a diamond with white roses. Light a gold candle and recite nine times: ‘Rose of white, diamond bright, bring to me fidelity’. Burn the candle through and wear the diamond close to your heart.

Recharging its energies

Cleanse diamond often as it absorbs negativity. Polish with a soft cloth and smudge it.

Herkimer diamond

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide.

Double-terminated quartz crystals with triangular-shaped faces

Colour: Clear, but may contain rainbow inclusions, water and air bubbles

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire/water

Candle Colour: Gold

Guardian Angel: Sandalaphon

Chakra: Crown/brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Neroli, avocado, lemon, lime and olive

Flowers: Cyclamen, dahlia and tiger lily

Associated crystals: Clear fluorite, diamond and faden quartz

Mythology and history

Although they are in fact double-terminated quartz crystals, Herkimer diamonds resemble diamonds in both their shape and their brilliance. Named after the place they are mined, Herkimer County, New York, Herkimer diamonds are valued as a New Age stone because their unrestricted growth in soft mud makes them one of the prime liberators of the human spirit. Therefore Herkimer diamonds are considered to give access to the user’s own unlimited potential for growth.

Divinatory significance

It is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Herkimer diamond affects the body on the deepest level, bringing the deeper brain wave patterns that enable the mind to influence body health positively and opening the aura and chakras to spiritual healing from divine sources. It will stop physical burnout and activate the body to fight not only disease but also potential illnesses that are building up.

Uses at work and home

Herkimer diamond enables you to function effectively in the world, but also to see a much wider picture of your own life. It is excellent for making interconnections with other people on a spiritual level. If circumstances or other people have been forcing you and a lover or permanent partner apart, Herkimer diamond will unite you on a very deep creative level, helping you to face together any situation that arises. It is very useful for anyone who comes into contact with illusions, lies and trickery as it helps you to see through deception and understand the truth of what people are actually saying to you, despite their words.

Children and animals

Herkimer diamonds make children, teenagers and animals too spaced out to make them useful for anything more than occasional use.

Psychic associations

Herkimer diamond is the stone of beautiful spiritual dreams and accurate dream recall. It will enable you to have out-of-body experiences/astral travel if you have previously had a problem letting go psychically. Herkimer diamond is also useful for visualization, though you may find that your deeper self alters what you thought you were going to visualize into what you really need spiritually.

Recharging its energies

Use sunlight in an unglazed pottery dish.

Selenite

Selenite wands tipped with calcite, quartz or other crystals (right), or a selenite crystal circle (above), can direct light towards a person, animal or place in healing or for protection.

Properties

Type: Gypsum, hydrous calcium sulphate

Colour: White, transparent or semi-transparent, sometimes striated, translucent and white. As Satin Spar it has bands of moving white light that resemble satin

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Ergediel

Chakra: Brow/sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Jasmine, lemon balm, peach, rose, vanilla and myrrh

Flowers: Chamomile, gardenia, grape hyacinth and poppy

Associated crystals: Milky quartz, moonstone and pearl

Mythology and history

Selenite can grow naturally as wands, sometimes twinned. Named after Selene, the Greek goddess of the full moon who was the mother of Pandia, goddess of brightness, Ersa, goddess of the dew and Nemea, the mountain goddess. A goddess of marriage, married women and mothers, she is mistress of enchantment and ritual.

Divinatory significance

We can’t change the past, but we can take what is of beauty and worth and let the rest fall away.

Healing and the environment

Selenite heals the cells of the body and the fluid system. It improves skin tone and increases calcium absorption. A fertility, pregnancy and motherhood stone, it protects the pregnant woman and the unborn child. It also increases libido.

Uses at work and in the home

Selenite is the crystal of partnerships, both in love and relationships, and creates a firm foundation for long-lasting commitment. Selenite gently encourages all forms of communication and enables you to see through lies or deception.

Children and animals

Young children love selenite magic wands that they can wave to dispel their fears. Selenite enhances telepathy with all creatures.

Psychic associations

Selenite is a powerful crystal of psychic communication. It aids interaction with the wise ancestors, angels and spirit guides, and loved ones telepathically and, through divination, with the cosmic records of wisdom. It is therefore a stone that should be used by mediums and clairvoyants. It also promotes the recollection of dreams and past lives. Keep one in a love charm bag to ensure fidelity until the seas run dry.

Recharging its energies

Use still mineral water in which full moonlight has shone to revitalize selenite.

White opal

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide with water trapped inside

Colour: Pale precious opals are called white, but the term popularly refers to white opals with or without iridescent fire

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Gabriel

Chakra: Brow/sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Myrrh, eucalyptus, jasmine, peach and sandalwood

Flowers: Night stock, orchid and white water lily

Associated crystals: Milky quartz, selenite and white pearl

Mythology and history

Milk opals or plain common opals do not have flashes of colour or what is called play of colour. The flashes of colour in precious opals can be seen when the opal is held in the light.

According to Hindu legend, the first opal was created when the Mother Goddess changed the virgin Goddess of the Rainbow into an opal, because three gods were relentlessly pursuing her.

Divinatory significance

White opal is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

The properties for common and precious opals are the same, but iridescent white opals have more intense, faster-acting powers.

White opal regularizes the biorhythms of the user, avoiding uncontrolled behaviour between frantic activity or total inertia. It harmonizes sexual desire so that sexuality becomes true lovemaking rather than pure appetite or a power trip. It also restores pleasure in eating and so alleviates food-related disorders.

At work and in the home

White opal increases our pleasure in life. It inspires creativity, especially for writing poetry, drama and children’s literature. It aids expression through dance, yoga and tai chi.

Children and animals

A white opal, especially a common one, will help children to express their feelings if they bottle them up. Opal is not an animal stone.

Psychic associations

Opals can increase the power of Tantric sex or sex magic, resulting in joint astral travel at the point of sexual union. They are a focus for rituals to enhance beauty and to call a twin soul psychically.

Recharging its energies

Opals are delicate and should not be exposed to sunlight. Wipe with virgin oil or water often but sparingly, as they absorb emotions.

Water/jelly opal

Properties

Type: Silicon dioxide with water trapped inside. Precious water opal has flashes of colours. A form of clear opal called hydrophane shows colours in water or oil. Glows

Colour: Clear

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Tamiel

Chakra: Sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lemon, chamomile, coconut, rose and yarrow

Flowers: Lemon blossom, lily of the valley and marsh marigold

Associated crystals: Moonstone, pearl and water opal

Mythology and history

The word opal probably comes from the Sanskrit world upala, which means precious stone. Opals, especially colourless ones, were believed to render the wearer unseen, and in medieval times opal was called the friend of thieves and wrongdoers. However, water opal can help you lower your profile for more positive reasons.

Divinatory significance

Water opal is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Clear opal is good for the eyesight, for hair and skin. It gently alleviates exhaustion and is useful in all illnesses where the person lacks energy or strength. It will ease hormonal imbalances and breast tenderness, especially in younger women, and will aid people of both sexes when they are exploring their sexuality, banishing guilt, fears or pressures to have sex before they are ready.

Uses at work and home

Water opal will absorb powerful feelings, softening harsh or thoughtless responses and bringing a more caring attitude even to a fiercely competitive workplace.

Children and animals

Water opal is useful for pubescent boys and girls; it will overcome their fears and any sense of shame at their body changes. It is good for calming adolescent animals and those on heat.

Psychic associations

Water opal will increase your understanding if you are studying different religious faiths and forms of spirituality. It enhances prophecy through automatic writing (when you allow your pen to write without consciously formulating the words).

Recharging its energies

Water opal is especially delicate. Regularly hydrate it gently with a little water while reciting a favourite prayer or mantra.

Pearl

Properties

Type: Organic. Formed when an oyster coats an irritant with layers of calcium carbonate (nacre). May be salt or freshwater

Colour: White or pale cream, pink/peach. Iridescent

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver or turquoise

Guardian Angel: Rahab

Chakra: Crown/sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Elder, ambergris (synthetic), gardenia, rose and sandalwood

Flowers: Lotus, sea holly and sea lavender

Associated crystals: Aquamarine, blue coral and mother-of-pearl

See also

Black pearl and mother-of-pearl

Mythology and history

According to many legends from around the world, pearls are tears that fell into the ocean into open oyster shells; one myth states that they are the tears of the angels for the sins of humankind. More cheerfully, it is told in India that the god Vishnu chose the most beautiful pearls as a wedding gift for his daughter Pandaia. In European custom, pearls are the stone given on the thirtieth wedding anniversary. Like opal and jet, pearl best belongs to one person.

Divinatory significance

Pearl is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Pearl harmonizes bodily rhythms with those of the natural cycles of the moon and the seasons. This enables hormonal cycles and biorhythms to find their natural level, making it a particularly useful stone for women. It also eases mental overload.

Uses at work and home

Pearl increases spiritual as well as romantic love. It develops nurturing qualities in both men and women. This can foster a caring and harmonious atmosphere in the workplace, which is usually more productive as well.

Children and animals

Give a girl a pearl each year for a necklace to be strung on her eighteenth birthday. Collect them for a belt for a boy or, to save for his future love partner. Pearl is not a suitable stone for animals.

Psychic associations

Pearls are a powerful focus for prosperity magic and for breaking the psychic or psychological hold of a destructive or over-dominant person in your life.

Recharging its energies

Recharge in waxing moonlight at least once a month. If used for healing or in divination, cleanse at any time with a silver candle.

Mother-of-pearl

Properties

Type: Organic, the lining mainly of pearl oyster shells, formed from the nacre or calcium carbonate that forms the shell lining. You may find it naturally after the sea creature has died. Iridescent

Colour: White, cream or brown

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Aquamarine

Guardian Angel: Tamiel

Chakra: Brow/sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Kelp, lemon verbena, musk (synthetic), tea tree and willowherb

Flowers: Madonna lily, passionflower and peach blossom

Associated crystals: Amber, pearl and water opal

Mythology and history

In many cultures, mother-of-pearl is associated with the sea mothers. In Peru, pearl is sacred to Mother Sea, the whale goddess. First worshipped by the Incas, she has been revered through the ages by the peoples living along the South American Pacific Coast.

Divinatory significance

This is a time to keep your counsel and any secrets you have heard from a third party, as they may not be correct.

Healing and the environment

Mother-of-pearl is very soothing for any skin complaints, allergies or rashes. It is a stone of preconception, pregnancy, birth and motherhood. It is also helpful for a gentle weight-loss programme for both men and women at any time of life. Mother-of-pearl relieves fluid retention.

Uses at work and home

Keep either money or gold jewellery in a mother-of-pearl shell to attract prosperity to your home or workplace. Mother-of-pearl helps to ease mothers back into the workplace, no matter how long the break from paid employment has been.

Children and animals

Traditionally mother-of-pearl was placed on a newborn infant’s stomach for a few seconds to endow him or her with the protection of the mother even when the mother leaves the child with another carer. Mother-of-pearl comforts an animal whose young have been given away after weaning.

Psychic associations

Mother-of-pearl is excellent for sea magic. Find two halves of an oyster shell and insert a small coin or gold earring in the shell. Carefully bind it together with seaweed and cast it on the seventh wave, asking the sea mother to grant your wish.

Recharging its energies

Use sea water or add a pinch of sea salt to water to revitalize mother-of-pearl.

White howlite/magnesite

Properties

Type: Calcium Boro-silicate hydroxide. Smooth stones. Opaque. Also found in a form that looks like a cauliflower floret or chewing gum, called magnesite

Colour: White or white with grey or black web-like streaks. The magnesite formation is sometimes pale or lime green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Earth

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Grey

Guardian Angel: Hamaliel

Chakra: Root

Herbs, incenses and oils: Caraway, clary sage, lemongrass, honeysuckle and patchouli

Flowers: Heather, mosses and wallflowers

Associated crystals: Blue chalcedony, snow quartz and sodalite

See also

Blue howlite

Mythology and history

Howlite is named after Henry How, a geologist who discovered it in Nova Scotia. It is called the home-blessing stone. It is traditionally buried around the boundaries (or in indoor plant pots) at the four main compass directions and a small piece is placed over the front and back doors.

Divinatory significance

You may need to touch home base for a while. Spend time in familiar places with friendly faces and draw on their loyalty and reassuring strength.

Healing and the environment

White howlite relates to the skeleton, bones, teeth and to the absorption of necessary minerals. It strengthens the effects of basic healthcare and fitness programmes. It is primarily a stone of preventative care and protects against the user or healer neglecting their own health: it is an important component of any charm bag for health.

Uses at work and home

Howlite encourages high standards of integrity and open, non-confrontational communication. Therefore it is valuable at extended family gatherings and is useful in a workplace where there are factions. It is also conducive to brainstorming sessions.

Children and animals

White howlite reassures children who are afraid of the dark and encourages a peaceful night’s sleep. It persuades nomadic cats to stay near the fireside.

Psychic associations

White howlite is effective in visualization, perhaps because it provides both the openness necessary to visualize needs and the earthing to make them manifest in the daily world. It protects against unfriendly phantoms.

Recharging its energies

Set it in a white ceramic bowl and leave it in the centre of your home at a happy gathering.

White Sapphire

Properties

Type: Corundum

Colour: White, the purest form of sapphire, often substituted for diamonds. Sometimes dyed blue or red by heating

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Planet: Mercury/Sun

Element: Air/fire

Candle Colour: White

Guardian Angel: Raphael

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Fennel, ferns, lavender, lilac and sweetgrass

Flowers: White carnation, hyacinth and rose

Associated crystals: Herkimer diamond, diamond and white topaz

See also

Sapphire and ruby

Mythology and history

The stone of purity, white sapphire was worn as an amulet against infidelity. In medieval times, it was exchanged as a peace token. It marks the forty-fifth wedding anniversary.

Divinatory significance

White sapphire is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

White sapphire is a purifier of the blood and will relieve problems with blood cells or bone marrow, the brain and the nervous system. It works on the whole system like a shimmering shower of rain, cleansing impurities from the chakras and aura and awakening the core of healing and of divinity within us all. Use white sapphire for world peace and wise leadership by elected leaders.

Uses at work and home

A stone of purity of purpose that sometimes seems at odds with modern consumerism and the need to succeed at all costs. But some of the most successful business people use white sapphire and so benefit from a high reputation in their particular field for honest dealings and customer/staff care. It is also an important stone of internal monitoring, to help set personal standards that do not waver even when the wearer is alone.

Children and animals

White sapphire will help older children and teenagers to create personal rules for living rather than rely on externally imposed ones. It is a good crystal for guide dogs.

Psychic associations

A token of first love or one endowed with love and trust in a more mature relationship to remove jealousy or doubts about fidelity. Use it for justice without revenge.

Recharging its energies

Wipe gently with a silk cloth and surround it with pink or white petals whenever it feels as though its light is fading.

White topaz

Properties

Type: Hydrous aluminium silicate

Colour: The purest form of topaz, clear and sparkling. Also called silver topaz. Translucent. Sometimes irradiated to produce blue topaz

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Planet: Sun/Moon

Element: Fire/water

Candle Colour: Gold

Guardian Angel: Verchiel

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Bay, basil, frankincense, lime, tangerine and rosemary

Flowers: Calendula, daffodil and yellow lily Associated crystals: Clear quartz, diamond and moonstone

See also

Blue topaz and golden topaz

Mythology and history

The Ancient Greeks prized clear or white topaz because they believed it prevented the owner being enchanted and made the wearer invisible in times of danger. Of all the topaz shades, white is most connected with the moon cycles and is said to increase in lustre and power as the moon waxed, becoming at its most brilliant and powerful on the night of the full moon (see rainbow moonstone).

Divinatory significance

White topaz is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

White topaz is like an internal valve, regulating the amount of energy needed in the system at any time. It controls the endocrine system and relieves conditions such as asthma and allergies, where external factors attack the body. It also builds up resistance to pollution and harmful rays from the environment. White topaz relieves insomnia caused by system overload and helps the body find its natural weight and level of fitness.

Uses at work and home

A crystal of truth, it filters information coming from different sources and activates your automatic radar that will guide you if you trust it. It will lower your psychological profile if you don’t want to be noticed.

Children and animals

White topaz reduces the power of advertising jargon on impressionable young minds. It is not an animal stone.

Psychic associations

Wearing topaz jewellery, especially as earrings, increases your clairaudient and clairvoyant powers. A white topaz ring (the stone need only be tiny) will help you to channel psychic power through the minor chakras on the palms of your hand for effective psychometry.

Recharging its energies

Recharge under the full moon, beginning as the sun is setting for solar and lunar powers.

Crystal spheres

A Schalenblende sphere. FAR RIGHT Crystal spheres have from earliest times been regarded as tools of personal wisdom. Holding one to reflect sun, moon or a candle awakens our innate clairvoyant powers and enables us to access the cosmic pool of knowledge of all times and all places. (Clockwise from top: Rose quartz, serpentine, red jasper, lapis lazula and jet, with a fluorite sphere in the centre.)

Properties

Type: Various

Colour: Various

Symbolic associations

These will be the same as the kind of crystal from which the ball is formed. All crystal balls operate through the crown chakra

Mythology and history

Crystal spheres are characterized by their shape. Those with inclusions are generally easier to read psychically (and are cheaper). Some have double refraction, where light waves bend and double.

Crystal ball divination became popular in Europe in the fifteenth century when it was believed that spirits or angels would appear in the glass. One of the most famous scryers was Sir John Dee (1527–1608), astrologer to Queen Elizabeth I. On 21 November 1582, he bought an obsidian crystal ball. It is said that this crystal provided forewarning of the arrival of the Spanish Armada.

Divinatory significance

Crystal-ball reading is a multi-sensory experience. Hold the ball and allow feelings and impressions, words as well as images, to enter your mind spontaneously. Images usually appear within your mind initially, but with practise you can project them into the ball by visualizing them on the surface and then picturing them entering the crystal until this happens spontaneously. The images may make a story that answers the question.

Healing and the environment

Crystal spheres are wonderful transmitters of healing energy. Use a cloudy ball if the healing is to be gradual, or a clear ball when you need a fast infusion of energy. You and the person being healed should hold the ball at the same time: you can send rays of love, which will be amplified through the ball. Traditionally, clear spheres are used to reflect the rays of the sun on to a painful or injured part. Be careful the ball does not get too hot.

Uses at work and home

Crystal spheres will absorb negativity and transform it into light. Place your hands round it to centre yourself and fill yourself with its light. Use a clear ball for energizing and a soft cloudy one such as amethyst for its calming effect.

Children and animals

Children will see angels and other lands even in the clearest sphere. A crystal sphere will make animals grow quiet and still – who knows what they see?

Psychic associations

You can work with really small spheres. If possible have three to consult: first, an amethyst, calcite or rose quartz sphere, then clear quartz or citrine and finally a smoky quartz or blue beryl. In the first gentle ball you can see unknown aspects of the past of yourself or the other person, or glimpses of past lives. Cup the sphere between your hands and start talking (record on tape if you wish). The clear or sparkling ball will clarify aspects of the present that may be linked to the past. Finally, the smoky quartz or beryl ball will allow you to look through the cracks of time to future potential/opportunity.

Recharging its energies

Use sunlight for a clear or sparkling ball and full moonlight for a cloudier one.

Amethyst

Amethyst should have a place in every home as it is the most protective of all crystals and brings harmonious energies that can counter external stress.

An amethyst healing altar set with lavender, which is associated with amethyst, to represent the element of earth.

Properties

Type: Quartz with very large crystals. Translucent, semi-transparent and transparent

Colour: From pale lilac to deep purple; also white

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Dark blue/purple

Guardian Angel: Cambiel

Chakra: Brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Dusky rose petals, patchouli, lavender, chamomile and sweetgrass (smudge)

Flowers: Lavender, violet and lilac

Associated crystals: Rose quartz, moonstone and jade

Mythology and history

Amethyst is considered to be the stone of faithful lovers and Saint Valentine. Indeed, Saint Valentine reputedly wore an amethyst ring engraved with an image of Cupid. The Greeks believed it to be particularly effective against drunkenness – hence the name amethustos, which means not to be drunk. Wealthier Greeks, and later the Romans, would make wine goblets out of amethyst to guard against the excessive effects of wine. Legend tells that Amethysta, a beautiful maiden, attracted the unwelcome attention of Bacchus, the god of wine. Diana, the virgin goddess of the hunt, saved Amethysta by turning her into the gleaming gem, saying henceforward all would behave in a restrained manner in her presence.

Amethyst is also the stone of integrity and was worn by Egyptian soldiers in battle so they would not lose their courage in dangerous situations. In the Christian Church, amethyst was the gem of purity and is associated with bishops, who traditionally wear an amethyst ring, especially in the Roman Catholic Church.

Amethyst is the stone of the Buddha and is popular for Buddhist prayer beads, especially in Tibet. In Northern Africa it is a rain-making stone, and is dropped into water by medicine men and women.

Divinatory significance

Amethyst indicates that you may be feeling stressed or exhausted, or have experienced difficulties recently and need to give gentle love to yourself until energy flows again.

Healing and the environment

Often called the all-healer, amethyst is one of the most effective crystals for any kind of healing work. It is effective for people, animals and plants and can even recharge other crystals with healing powers. It is potent for ailments of both mind and body, especially emotional problems.

It is particularly helpful for addictions, including those to alcohol and food. Placed on the stomach or liver, amethyst helps to soothe problems in these areas.

If worn when sleeping, or kept under the pillow, amethyst prevents insomnia and nightmares. It soothes headaches if placed on temples or the point of pain, relieves eyestrain and helps to maintain the blood-sugar balance. It is excellent for absent healing.

An amethyst in the soil of a plant in the workplace will restore energies depleted by noise and over-bright artificial lighting. You can set several tiny amethysts in a polluted place or around the edges of a photograph of a despoiled or war-torn land. Light a purple candle and leave it to burn through.

Uses at work and home

Amethyst soothes anger and impatience and is therefore good to have in the workplace or at home in a room where you may have to deal with awkward or truculent visitors. Place amethyst geodes, spheres or amethyst pyramids around your home and workspace and focus on one if you become anxious about potential conflict or feel overwhelmed by any difficult tasks you have to finish.

If your home or workplace feels unfriendly or always seems cold and dark even in summer, you may be suffering from streams of dark psychic energy beneath the building. Place amethyst inclusions over any spot that feels hostile and near doors and windows. You can also put tiny amethysts under the carpet to absorb negative earth powers.

Amethysts are naturally protective against technological pollutants, such as a constantly ringing telephone or jangling fax. They are especially good placed on a computer table to avoid excessive strain on eyes and mind.

Children and animals

Children who suffer from nightmares can use an amethyst geode or sphere as a talisman. They should be encouraged to look at the crystal while breathing slowly and imagining that they are breathing in purple light and exhaling darkness. Finally, they should visualize themselves as safe and secure in a crystalline castle for the night.

To bring peaceful sleep, soak an amethyst in still mineral water for eight hours and serve as a bedtime drink. Amethyst water is also good in the daytime if a child finds it hard to relax and settle to activities.

Pets that are ill can drink amethyst water to energize them and to calm hyperactivity. This helps to stop excessive barking in a dog or feather ripping in a bird. Amethyst also deters fleas.

Psychic associations

Amethyst is particularly effective in meditation and psychic work to develop clairvoyance and clairaudience. It also brings memories of past worlds and lives if placed in the centre of the brow.

A powerful psychic enhancer, an amethyst under your pillow will bring peaceful but psychic dreams. An amethyst pendulum aids personal decision making, using a yes/no response. Alternatively, hold it or a pointed amethyst crystal over a series of written options and see over which of the choices the pendulum or crystal pulls down.

Recharging its energies

Recharge amethyst under the light of the moon rather than in sunlight.

A large unpolished piece of amethyst will cleanse and restore energies to any other crystal you have used for healing, divination or protection. Carefully wrap the crystal with the amethyst in dark silk.

Purple fluorite

Properties

Type: Halide/fluorspar Colour: Purple and blue. Transparent or semitransparent

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Lilac

Guardian Angel: Raziel

Chakra: Crown/brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Clary sage, chamomile, star anise, rosewood and sweet pea

Flowers: Hebe, lavender and lilac

Associated crystals: Amethyst, blue calcite and watermelon tourmaline

See also

Green fluorite and clear fluorite

Mythology and history

The most spiritual colour of this New Age stone, purple and lavender fluorite have come to represent mystical powers associated with higher planes. They are amplifiers, especially in their naturally occurring pyramid forms, and contain healing light and channelled wisdom from evolved teachers of humanity who live in higher realms.

Divinatory significance

Your healing gifts may be manifest in the way others seek you out for wise counsel, but you may wish to develop them more formally.

Healing and the environment

Purple fluorite clears tension headaches and eases problems associated with the ears, sinuses, throat and tonsils. It calms buzzing thoughts that stop you relaxing and sleeping. Purple fluorite also builds up resistance, especially against colds, flu and childhood illnesses that are far more serious in adulthood. Use it as a focus for world peace.

Uses at work and home

Lavender fluorite will reduce tension at home and work and absorb negative or panic vibes. Purple fluorite will make writing course materials, presentations and learning material for exams or interviews much easier. Take a piece with you to any meetings when you will be on trial.

Children and animals

Purple fluorite works well with hyperactive children. It helps dogs behave well in public.

Psychic associations

It is one of the best stones for meditation, for channelling from higher beings of light and for archangel work. It is good for pyramid work.

Recharging its energy

Use running water to recharge fluorite.

Sugilite

Properties

Type: Ring silicate

Colour: Lilac to violet, dense and opaque with black, white, orange or brown or, less commonly, blue. A rare dark purple kind is translucent

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Dark blue

Guardian Angel: Ausiel

Chakra: Brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Acacia, benzoin, lavender, mace and star anise

Flowers: Cyclamen, fuchsia and violet

Associated crystals: Amethyst, kunzite and lapis lazuli

Mythology and history

A relatively recent discovery, sugilite, like kunzite, is said to have been offered up by mother earth to meet the needs and problems of the modern world. Sugilite has become associated with the Age of Aquarius and with a new, more compassionate world view.

Divinatory significance

Sugilite indicates that your healing powers are developing, whether you are training formally in healing or not. You may find that other people are increasingly seeking your help and advice and that you intuitively know what is wrong with them.

Healing and the environment

Sugilite directs energy to wherever it is needed in your system and removes energy blockages. It is especially effective if you continually feel slightly unwell or stressed, as sugilite will realign your body and help to balance the all-important pineal, pituitary and adrenal glands. Some cancer sufferers have found sugilite to be helpful.

Use sugilite in rituals to heal the planet and to restore ecological balance.

Uses at work and home

Sugilite will preserve your integrity and self-esteem in a workplace where profit is considered more important than people and where you feel you are just a cog in a machine. You can also use it to bring spiritual values into the home if outside influences are working against you.

Children and animals

Sugilite helps children and teenagers to resist peer pressure and advertising that stresses the importance of designer goods as the route to happiness. It also encourages ecological awareness from a young age.

Sugilite is particularly loved by cats because it is the colour of their aura.

Psychic associations

Sugilite makes meditation and channelling easier and creates a space between the psychic world and the everyday world. Use it to contact spirit guides and light beings, and for an awareness of other dimensions.

Recharging its energies

Sugilite is surprisingly delicate: recharge it by placing it next to an unpolished chunk of amethyst covered by a dark silk scarf for twenty-four hours.

Lepidolite

Properties

Type: Hydrous potassium lithium aluminium silicate

Colour: Violet to lavender to pink. Transparent or translucent and shiny. Lithium gives the crystal its colour. If you scratch the surface with your fingernail, it may flake

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Planet: Saturn

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Deep purple

Guardian Angel: Aftiel

Chakra: Crown/brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Cedar, comfrey, patchouli, vetivert and wintergreen

Flowers: Dark tulip, foxglove and verbena Associated crystals: Charoite, diopside and kunzite

Mythology and history

Each lepidolite crystal is believed to have a keeper, either a guardian spirit or angel, that is said to choose you. You may find your lepidolite crystal when you least expect it or may be given one: the keeper of the crystal will guide you in your sleep and, if you wish, to other lands in dreams.

Divinatory significance

Lepidolite indicates the strong positive influence of a woman (it could be you), who will make sure your opinions are heard in a current issue that may affect your community or livelihood. Don’t be swayed by other people’s moods and dramas: they are often attention-seeking, not a real cry for help.

Healing and the environment

Lepidolite is a powerful pain remover. It can also reduce the ill-effects of anaesthetic and dependency on medicines (especially antidepressants and tranquillizers), alcohol, tobacco or food. It provides a useful shield against the effects of modern pollution. Some people have reported finding it helpful for relations who suffer from mental illnesses, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other degenerative conditions.

Uses at work and home

Lepidolite will clear out all the redundant messages and voices from the past that hold us back from happiness or success. It will attract supportive friends and colleagues and bring opportunities to succeed. It will help anyone living an unavoidably stressful existence, especially city dwellers, to maintain a still, calm centre.

Children and animals

Lepidolite will cleanse the atmosphere after quarrels between siblings or toddler or teenage tantrums. It effectively restores peace and harmony to the household.

Lepidolite is also excellent for dogs that have behavioural problems.

Psychic associations

Lepidolite is a reassuring stone for people new to psychic work or those who have had a bad psychic experience or dabbled with ouija boards or held séances when younger. It screens out negativity.

Recharging its energies

Use a pendulum (amethyst is preferred) or a watermelon tourmaline wand.

Super seven

Properties

Type: A fusion of amethyst, cacoxenite, goethite, lepidocrocite, clear quartz, rutile and smoky quartz. Transparent

Colour: Dark purple. You may also see golden starlight or misty grey

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: All

Planet: The star Sirius A

Element: Akasha, the combination of earth, air, fire and water

Candle Colour: Gold

Guardian Angel: Michael

Chakra: Super seven harmonizes all chakras

Herbs, incenses and oils: Copal, frankincense, myrrh, rose and sandalwood

Flowers: Cyclamen, golden chrysanthemum and golden rose

Associated crystals: Any of its seven components

See also

Amethyst, clear quartz, rutilated and smoky quartz

Mythology and history

Also called the sacred seven, this crystal is a fusion of seven other minerals: amethyst, cacoxenite (which assists the flow of energy through the body), goethite (good for blood and survival instincts), lepidocrocite (a fire stone similar to hematite), clear quartz, rutile and smoky quartz. It is the crystal of Sirius A, the brightest star in the sky. Sirius is famed in Egypt for its reappearance for ten days around mid-July, which heralded the annual flood and so ensured the fertility of the land. Sirius and super seven are associated with Isis.

Divinatory significance

This is a special time spiritually. If you have been struggling to reconcile your spiritual and everyday worlds, you will feel them merge.

Healing and the environment

An all-healer, super seven operates on spiritual levels. It affects your whole body – you start to feel at home in your skin physically and emotionally. It relieves conditions caused by allergies and eases the management of hereditary or congenital conditions. Use it to promote universal peace and love.

Uses at work and home

It increases understanding of yourself and your life path so that you act rather than react and can be yourself in any situation.

Children and animals

Ask young children how to use super seven. Use at the beginning and end of a pet’s life.

Psychic associations

Super seven increases your awareness of all your innate psychic powers. It helps you link with the magic of Ancient Egypt.

Recharging its energies

Super seven does not need cleansing.

Charoite

Properties

Type: Silicate. Marble-like and translucent

Colour: Swirling purple, violet, lilac and/or lavender, black and white

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Any shade of purple

Guardian Angel: Cassiel

Chakra: Brow/heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Blessed thistle, gardenia, lemon, nutmeg and sandalwood

Flowers: Michaelmas daisy, plantain and thistle

Associated crystals: Lapis lazuli, lepidolite and lavender fluorite

Mythology and history

Charoite is sometimes called the stone of courage in exile, because it is found only near the Chara River area of Siberia, where political dissidents were once sent.

Divinatory significance

It is definitely a time for giving rather than receiving. Your generosity, whether with your time, emotional support or practical help, will make a real difference to the recipient and so is worthwhile.

Healing and the environment

Charoite relieves difficulties with blood pressure, eye and liver problems and migraines or headaches with severe visual disturbance. It

will prevent insomnia and sleep disturbances including sleepwalking or talking. It alleviates fears of illness, pain, the unknown and mortality.

Uses at work and home

Charoite is a crystal for all who live away from friends and family or who work away for long periods. It will give stamina for long periods of intense work or caring for sick or elderly relations, and prevents people from repeating past mistakes.

Children and animals

Charoite is helpful for children with autistic tendencies or any with social and behavioural difficulties. It soothes homesickness in children who are at boarding schools or who are in residential care. Charoite prevents animals from being too territorial.

Psychic associations

Charoite is excellent for facilitating past-life recall. It is also very useful for overcoming fears of ghosts and for dealing with unwanted spontaneous psychic experiences. Charoite will connect you telepathically with absent friends. Hold it for a minute at the same time each evening to exchange loving thoughts.

Recharging its energies

Set charoite within the sound of natural running water for an hour or so to recharge.

Turquoise

Turquoise is traditionally considered the stone of travellers. It offers worldly success and authority and the power to soar spiritually.

Properties

Type: Phosphate of aluminium with copper and traces of iron. Opaque

Colour: Light blue/blue-green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Venus/Neptune

Element: Fire/air

Candle Colour: Bright blue

Guardian Angel: Zadkiel

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Cedar, hyssop, sage, mistletoe and sandalwood

Flowers: Honeysuckle, carnation, chrysanthemum

Associated crystals: Azurite, lapis lazuli and blue howlite/howzite

Mythology and history

The name turquoise comes from Turkey, where it was first discovered by the Crusaders, although it was in use thousands of years before. It is a stone associated with the gods and goddesses in cultures as far apart as Ancient Egypt and China and the Americas.

One of the most prized stones in Ancient Egypt, its name means delight. Hathor, the goddess of love, marriage, dance, music, joy and women, was called the Lady of Turquoise, giving the stone a feminine association (in a number of other cultures it was known as a male power stone). In Ancient Egypt, turquoise was also linked to the sun gods and the sun at dawn and so, like lapis lazuli, it is a symbol of rebirth. The hair of the Sun God Ra was said to have been made of turquoise. It was mined in Sinai.

Known as a male stone of power in the Americas, only warriors could wear it; in some parts it was only used as an adornment for the statues of male deities. It was regarded as a sky stone, a sacred manifestation of the source of creation.

Turquoise is sacred to many American Indian tribes, including the Pueblo Indians. Indeed, in the Chaco Canon groups of ruins in Mexico, nine thousand turquoise beads and pendants were discovered in the grave of a single warrior chief. Some were carved in the shape of animals or birds to attract favourable spirits to enter the crystals.

Among the Apaches, turquoise was a powerful talisman and healer and was an important tool of the medicine man or woman. After a storm it was believed turquoise would be found in the damp earth at the point where the rainbow ended; these were especially prized and fixed to the end of a bow or gun to ensure an accurate aim.

The Navajo placed tiny pieces of turquoise on their magical sand paintings as a way of ending drought and, like the Pueblo Indians, they set pieces of turquoise under their dwellings to protect their homes and their families against evil spirits.

As late as CE 1400 the Aztecs offered Queztalcoatl, plumed serpent god of the sun, a death skull inlaid with hundreds of small turquoise crystals.

Divinatory significance

You may be called upon to arbitrate in a quarrel, perhaps at work, or to speak out if you feel strongly about a matter. You may also need to take the lead to bring a matter or project to fruition.

Healing and the environment

Famed as a protection against poison, turquoise is reputed to change colour if poison or other dangers are near.

Turquoise detoxifies the system of pollutants, and relieves migraines, sore throats, rheumatism, arthritis, bone disorders, lung and chest infections, and asthma as well as many other allergies. It is excellent for inner ear and eye problems. It also eases cramps and over-acidity and gives resistance to fight viruses.

Because of its strength and association with leadership, it is sometimes called the campaigner’s stone, favouring those who initiate or play active roles in peaceful movements for the protection of the environment and for human rights.

Uses at work and home

Keep turquoise near stairs to prevent falls, especially if there are children, elderly people or the infirm in the house. Hide turquoise in outhouses or near entrances to your home to repel intruders.

Turquoise will also attract prosperity and success; place it in your workspace or where you keep your financial papers.

Children and animals

Turquoise is a good stone for a child to carry to protect against bullying and to help a timid child to take the initiative and to answer questions in class. Children could also drink water in which the crystal has been soaked for eight hours.

Fix turquoise to pets’ collars and to the mirror of caged birds to prevent theft or the creature getting lost or straying.

Turquoise is traditionally plaited into the mane of a horse or attached to the bridle to prevent it stumbling; a similar sized turquoise should be held or carried by the rider.

Psychic associations

Associated with the throat chakra, turquoise will help you communicate more effectively. Known for its strength, it is associated with qualities of leadership and makes the wearer less sensitive to negative influences.

Absorbing all negative forces, turquoise endows wisdom on those who wear it and increases prophetic powers. Turquoise is said to give access to the collective wisdom of humankind. Hold your turquoise in cupped palms and name your intentions seven times.

Turquoise has the dual function both of energizing and balancing mood swings or extremes of emotions, making the wearer strong within but less sensitive to negative outer influences. Turquoise should be given as a gift, not bought.

Recharging its energies

Turquoise fades in sunlight and from exposure to oils. Recharge it with an Amerindian smudge – cedar, sagebrush or sweetgrass.

Blue howlite

Properties

Type: Calcium boro-silicate hydroxide

Colour: Bright sky-blue. Opaque

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Bright blue

Guardian Angel: Gediel

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Anise, bergamot, cinquefoil, lemongrass and lemon verbena

Flowers: Blue poppy, iris and cornflower

Associated crystals: Chrysocolla, lapis lazuli and turquoise

Mythology and history

Howlite, sometimes called the bones of the earth, is white or grey. It is frequently dyed vivid blue and acts as a cheaper form of turquoise. What is remarkable is that in this blue form, it adds to the gentle stone a powerful sky deity influence that gives it an enduring strength to meet any challenge.

Divinatory significance

Your talents and strengths are greater than you realize, so take new opportunities even if you do not feel you are qualified or sufficiently experienced.

Healing and the environment

Blue howlite will flood the system with strength and stamina long after the treatment has ceased. It is excellent for bones and teeth and the upper part of the spine and neck, as well as easing recurring throat or tonsil infections. It will energize a new mother who has twins, triplets or a premature infant who needs constant care.

Uses at work and home

Blue howlite will bring many blessings to your home. It helps you to upgrade your property and get the best deals in selling or buying. At work, it will hasten long-term success and give you the stamina to survive if there is in-fighting or a whispering campaign. It is an empowering and protective stone for young people during their gap years or for anyone who wants to leave the rat race.

Children and animals

Blue howlite encourages children and animals to exercise and to be more adventurous. Blue howlite protects both a physically weak child or the runt of an animal litter.

Psychic associations

Blue howlite is a dream stone: it will bring healing in dreams and will also assist astral travel during sleep.

Recharging its energies

Place blue howlite with watermelon tourmaline or amethyst to rest it.

Violan

Properties

Type: Silicate. Rare form of diopside found in Italy

Colour: Soft light-blue, streaked with white and silver rutiles, also lavender to pink-purple

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Planet: Uranus

Element: Air/pure spirit

Candle Colour: Light blue

Guardian Angel: Raphael/all star beings

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Star anise, magnolia, marjoram, mugwort and vanilla

Flowers: Apple blossom, orchid and sweet pea

Associated crystals: Blue lace agate, lapis lazuli and sapphire

Mythology and history

Violan is a relatively recent discovery that is already gaining a reputation for channelling angels and star beings. Some people believe it is a caretaker stone brought by travellers from Sirius B that resonates with the songs of the dolphins and radiates blue healing rays of Sirian energies.

Divinatory significance

Make space for your spiritual development, if only a few minutes stargazing, even if you are pressed for time.

Healing and the environment

Violan is a spiritual healer that works by drawing down energy from angelic and stellar powers that will relieve whatever part of your body, mind or soul is suffering disease. It is especially good at enabling you to talk about your feelings if you feel restricted, either physically or emotionally.

Uses at work and home

Place a piece of violan in the heart of your home, the central place where you and anyone who lives with you gathers regularly to relax. This will make your home a spiritual place and a sanctuary from the world. Use violan at work if you are part of a firm where the profit motive dominates everything.

Children and animals

Violan is wonderful for sending healing to children who are suffering abuse or poverty, or living in famine-stricken areas or in war-torn lands. It is especially healing for dolphins, whales and all sea creatures. However, violan will help any animal that is being cruelly treated or imprisoned in a small cage or pen.

Psychic associations

Violan is in tune with the higher energies: hold this crystal to channel wisdom from star guardians and beings of light as well as from angels. A palm stone (shaped to be comfortable in the palm of your hand) is excellent for banishing worry. You can also add a piece of violan to your bath water to harmonize your spirit with the positive healing forces of the universe.

Recharging its energies

Use starlight or a very soft pearl-grey dawn light to re-energize violan.

Blue lace agate

Properties

Type: Agate

Colour: Pale, powdery blue, sometimes brighter periwinkle blue, with white lace threads

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water/air

Candle Colour: Pale blue

Guardian Angel: Cambiel

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Fern, star anise, vervain, vetivert and yarrow

Flowers: Bluebell, forget-me-not and periwinkle

Associated crystals: Aquamarine, blue calcite and celestite

Mythology and history

Blue lace agate is sometimes associated with the Virgin Mary and so is an icon of motherhood. In Scandinavia, blue lace agate is sacred to Nerthus, the earth mother.

Divinatory significance

Speak the truth and express your inner feelings and you will receive a favourable response.

Healing and the environment

Blue lace agate relieves sore throats, thyroid problems, headaches and painful or swollen glands in the neck. Soak one in water for eight hours and gargle with the water. Blue lace agate calms stress and stress-related conditions, quietens high blood pressure and soothes skin allergies and problems with bones. Healers should carry blue lace agate to increase their own healing energies and stop them becoming exhausted.

Blue lace agate can send peaceful energies to war-torn places. It should be placed on pictures of world leaders when they attend conferences, to encourage moderation.

Uses at work and home

The stone of the peacemaker, use blue lace agate water in drinks to make words kind and to avoid confrontations at family gatherings. At work, use it when addressing a meeting or for public speaking. It helps you to be coherent if you are thinking on your feet and facilitates communication, especially on the telephone. It protects against outbursts of anger by others.

Children and animals

Use it when an infant is learning to talk and to soothe a restless child. It reduces barking in a dog, screeching in birds and yowling in cats.

Psychic associations

Blue lace agate develops clairaudience and will make even the most difficult divinatory reading you give others positive and uplifting.

Recharging its energies

Use moonlight as the moon begins to wax.

Blue quartz

Properties

Type: Quartz, natural. The clear blue is caused by tiny rutile tourmaline or zoisite inclusions that reflect blue light. Semi-transparent or deeply translucent, often stained by patches or veins of iron oxide. Also clear rock crystal dyed blue and the Siberian lab-grown deep, clear, bright-blue quartz

Colour: Bright to dark blue

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Mid-blue

Guardian Angel: Rahtiel

Chakra: Brow/throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Fennel, bergamot, caraway, lavender and lemongrass

Flowers: Blue hyacinth, delphinium and lupin Associated crystals: Aqua aura, blue topaz and blue sapphire

See also

Aqua aura

Mythology and history

Since natural blue quartz is not often of gem quality, clear quartz is dyed or grown in the laboratory with added cobalt impurities to produce more perfect specimens. You may prefer nature’s untouched offerings (except for a polish) or feel that the qualities are enhanced by the beautification. Hold both kinds before choosing which is for you.

Divinatory significance

You may be aware of your growing spiritual powers. Explore your special psychic ability.

Healing and the environment

Blue quartz will strengthen the immune system and the thyroid and aid the absorption of the B vitamins, zinc, iron and iodine. It clears sinuses, reduces fevers and soothes heat stroke and sunburn. It also cleanses the aura, lowers anxiety levels and improves eyesight.

Uses at work and home

Blue quartz will raise your consciousness, so the goals you used to have may no longer be sufficiently challenging spiritually. It will encourage singing and musical ability.

Children and animals

Children are entranced by even the roughest piece of blue quartz, perhaps because it is a reminder of the spiritual knowledge with which they were born. Blue quartz calms children and animals. Animals prefer natural blue quartz for all forms of healing.

Psychic associations

Blue quartz is the crystal of visionaries and those who wish to see higher realms and communicate with evolved beings. Use it with prayer, when reciting a rosary, for chanting mantras, when walking a labyrinth or working with mandalas, to make a connection with the heart of life and with divine energies. Blue quartz is above all a stone for quiet meditation under blue skies: it will help you to merge momentarily with the cosmos.

Recharging its energies

Use clear quartz, an amethyst pendulum or a watermelon tourmaline wand to recharge.

Kyanite

Properties

Type: Aluminium silicate, flat mica-like layers, as blades or wands rather than rounded crystals. Sometimes grows with staurolite. Opaque to translucent, shiny almost pearly, sometimes with white

Colour: Mid-blue to sapphire or sky-blue

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air/water

Candle Colour: Sky-blue

Guardian Angel: Gediel

Chakra: Throat/brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Balm of Gilead, fennel, lavender, yarrow and yerba santa

Flowers: Blue hyacinth, sea lavender and heather

Associated crystals: Apatite, angelite and blue lace agate

Mythology and history

A relatively new stone to magic and healing, kyanite is believed to form a link with other kingdoms, animals, birds, plants, fish and insects as well as with humans. It provides a useful key to exploring and merging with their energies.

Divinatory significance

Kyanite is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Kyanite helps the healthy development of cells from womb to extreme old age. It allows us to develop our full potential, spiritually and mentally as well as physically. Kyanite draws energies from the higher levels of our being to fill us with calm even at the most frustrating times or in the most difficult situations. Use it for responsible caretakership of the earth.

Uses at work and home

A stone of connection, kyanite helps to strengthen family or friendship networks. It is very protective against negativity – dissipating hostility or spite. At work and personally, it encourages creativity and is a stone for singers, dancers, composers, writers, painters, potters, sculptors and craftspersons.

Children and animals

Kyanite makes reticent children more visible socially so that they get invited to parties. Place a small piece near any animal pens where an animal may be frequently disturbed.

Psychic associations

Kyanite is one of the best stones for past-life recall, especially for a series of connected lives over time or if you are seeking to understand a present phobia or problem that seems to have no roots in your present world. The blades are also useful as a wand to repel negativity or whatever it is you wish to drive or cast away.

Recharging its energies

Leave it near plants for the hour after dawn.

Lapis lazuli

Rough and polished lapis lazuli. Lapis is associated with divinity in a number of ancient cultures, and is still used to contact the wisdom and protection of our personal spiritual guardians.

Lapis lazuli unites the different aspects of ourselves and our lives, to create harmony of mind, body and spirit.

Properties

Type: Silicate of sodium calcium and aluminium, with some sulphur. Opaque. With flecks of iron pyrites Colour: Rich medium to royal blue, violet-blue and azure, even greenish-blue. Sometimes mixed blues

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Royal blue

Guardian Angel: Sahaqiel

Chakra: Brow/third eye

Herbs, incenses and oils: Cedar, frankincense, musk (artificial) sage and sandalwood

Flowers: Lupin, hollyhock and iris

Associated crystals: Azurite, sodalite and turquoise

Mythology and history

The Sumerians believed that lapis lazuli contained the spirit of the deities; the Ancient Egyptians also regarded it as the stone of the gods. This was partly because it reminded them of the starry heavens, but also because, as shown in the Papyrus Ebers, lapis lazuli had medicinal properties that improve eyesight when worn in the form of the eye of Horus amulet or powdered around the eyes.

Divinatory significance

Stick to your principles and rise above any pettiness and attempted double-dealing.

Healing and the environment

Lapis relieves headaches and migraines, skin disorders and anxiety, and aids problems with the lymph glands, the ears and eyes. It calms the nervous system, reducing inflammation and pain. Lapis helps to heal the ozone layer.

Uses at work and home

Around the home, lapis brings contentment and a strong sense of family loyalty. At work, it can help you gain promotion, maintain your integrity and inspire the trust of others.

Children and animals

Lapis is very helpful with children who are highly intelligent, who have Aspergers Syndrome or autistic tendencies, or who suffer from insomnia. It will calm highly strung animals, especially pedigree breeds, and will help them before a show or competition.

Psychic associations

Lapis lazuli is associated with the brow chakra and helps to increase clairvoyant abilities. It is a good focus for meditation when placed in the centre of the brow and is a powerful crystal for healing.

It is inspiring for all night magic, especially under the stars, and for psychic protection. Use it also for meaningful and prophetic dreams.

Recharging its energies

Use starlight to recharge lapis.

Iolite

Properties

Type: Silicate of aluminium and magnesium. Transparent

Colour: Pale blue/purple

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air/water

Candle Colour: Lilac

Guardian Angel: Shamshiel

Chakra: Brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Ferns, chamomile, sandalwood

Flowers: Bluebell, hibiscus and wisteria

Associated crystals: Blue sapphire, blue topaz and violan

Mythology and history

Iolite was called the water sapphire because it was prized by Viking voyagers. They used a thin polarizing iolite filter lens to clear the haze so that they could see the direction of the sun on cloudy days for accurate navigation. This worked because of pleochroism, the property by which certain crystals can look clear, hazy or different colours according to the angle from which they are viewed. Iolite was sacred to Ran, Viking goddess of the sea, and after a safe journey the Vikings would cast gold into the sea as tribute.

Divinatory significance

A new acquaintance or family addition may have hidden depths, so try a new approach if you are finding them difficult to warm to.

Healing and the environment

Iolite improves brain functioning and the efficiency of the metabolism. Iolite relieves headaches and prevents insomnia.

Uses at work and home

Iolite brings joy and laughter into the home, so put it where light can shine on it. At work, iolite will bring inspired solutions to problems that may have eluded the most logical brain. Set iolite on a table when brainstorming and to help come up with alternatives to inefficient or unpopular working practices.

Children and animals

This is a crystal to take on family outings and holidays to create a happy mood. Use iolite for an animal whom you find hard to love.

Psychic associations

Called the stone of witches, iolite increases psychic and magical powers. It is potent for visualization work and goddess rituals.

Recharging its energies

Use natural light to recharge iolite.

Sodalite

Properties

Type: Lattice silicate

Colour: Deep blue with white flecks of calcite, occasionally indigo

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water/air

Candle Colour: Indigo

Guardian Angel: Raziel

Chakra: Throat and brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Hyssop, lavender, myrrh, mugwort and rosewood

Flowers: Bluebell, cornflower and violet

Associated crystals: Amethyst, azurite and lapis lazuli

Mythology and history

In modern spirituality, sodalite has become a stone of empowerment for older women. It is sacred to St Anne, the grandmother of Christ.

Divinatory significance

Be slow to speak and measure your words wisely in any situation where your opinion is asked or when making a decision.

Healing and the environment

Sodalite is a universal healing crystal, releasing gentle waves of power that spread through the system. Hold it before healing work to help you understand the underlying cause of the illness or distress and how best to heal it. A cooling stone, it calms physical or emotional overheating, a racing pulse, or high blood pressure. It gently balances blood-sugar levels and relieves inflammation, pain from burns, and problems with ears, throat, sinuses, mouth and thyroid. It helps the lymph and pituitary glands or glands in the mouth.

It is good for preserving old churches and places of worship that have become neglected.

Uses at work and home

It helps those facing retirement or redundancy. It allows parents to move creatively to the next phase when children leave home. It helps teachers and all involved in the law to act wisely. Sodalite overcomes the fear of flying.

Children and animals

Sodalite is good for children who have little contact with their grandparents. Sodalite soothes mother animals when their young are taken away after weaning.

Psychic associations

More gently than lapis lazuli or turquoise, sodalite opens the third eye to see spiritual visions and the throat to tell of them. Sodalite will focus meditation if your mind is overactive, and is useful in creative visualization when you imagine a desired scenario or object moving into your life. It is used in croning/wise woman ceremonies to welcome the wisdom of the later years.

Recharging its energies

Bury it in a plant pot of lavender or another fragrant herb for twenty-four hours.

Sapphire

Properties

Type: Corundum. Sparkling

Colour: Pale to midnight blue, violet

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Saturn

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Sky-blue

Guardian Angel: Apollian

Chakra: Brow/throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Benzoin, star anise, lemon verbena, sage, sandalwood

Flowers: Blue lotus, cornflower and delphinium

Associated crystals: Aquamarine, blue zircon and blue tourmaline

See also

White sapphire

Mythology and history

In Judeo-Christian myth, Abraham was said to have worn a magnificent sapphire around his neck. When he died it rose to the sun.

Star sapphires have a star formation inside them and it is said that the angels of faith, hope and destiny were imprisoned in the stone for a minor misdemeanour. These bring wisdom to the owners (see also star rubies). Sapphire represents the forty-fifth wedding anniversary.

Divinatory significance

Sapphire is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Traditionally a stone of spiritual healing, a sapphire is effective for channelling healing powers from an angelic or higher source; it is a useful stone for Reiki healers. It amplifies healing through the voice or through sacred music.

Uses at work and home

Sapphire is associated with purity of thought and purpose, making it an excellent counter in the home to the cynicism and undesirable aspects of modern culture. It inspires loyalty between work colleagues and discourages fraud and industrial espionage. It helps prevent workers from draining work resources for personal gain. Sapphire also encourages the resolution of legal entanglements.

Children and animals

Sapphire is not used for children or animals, though a family sapphire can help children to contact their guardian angels.

Psychic associations

Sapphire is a stone of new love, and of commitment and fidelity. Use sapphire in rituals to preserve constancy, especially if one partner is temporarily absent or regularly works away from home.

Star sapphire is strongly associated with clairvoyance, clairaudience and prophecy. It is especially good for scrying if you focus on the intersection of the lines within the crystal. Sapphires naturally increase all psychic and spiritual powers.

Recharging its energies

Leave your sapphire under blue skies or recharge it by the light of a sky-blue candle.

Celestite/blue celestine

Properties

Type: Sulphate. Often in points or clusters. Semitransparent

Colour: Pale to mid-blue, also white, occasionally green. Looks like ice crystals

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Light blue

Guardian Angel: Chadakiel

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Chamomile, eucalyptus, vervain, vetivert and vanilla

Flowers: Narcissus, periwinkle and starflower

Associated crystals: Angelite, chrysocolla and blue topaz

See also

Orange celestine and angelite (below)

Mythology and history

Celestite is the popular name given to blue celestine. It is called the Stone of Heaven, because it was created by angel song from the celestial choirs. Like angelite, it has gained popularity with the renewed interest in angels.

Divinatory significance

Do not fill your mind with worries about what might happen in the future, as this may prevent you from enjoying and gaining full benefit from the present situation.

Healing and the environment

Celestite eases headaches, eye, ear, throat, mouth and speech problems. It relieves acute anxiety states, obsessive behaviour patterns and digestive disorders caused or made worse by stress, and protects against intestinal parasites or infections.

Uses at work and home

Celestite prevents you from becoming locked in a loop of negative expectations and not hearing what is actually being said. It helps adult children accept their parents’ choice of partner or step-family. Celestite is a stone for singers and actors, professional and amateur: it alleviates stage fright and nervous sore throats or loss of voice. Carry one if you work at or visit New Age fairs to protect you from less-than-spiritual vibes.

Children and animals

Celestite allows ultra-cautious children to experience new activities and environments. It helps a rescued animal to trust again or an injured one to recover strength and optimism.

Psychic associations

Meditate with celestite to achieve a total state of peace and unity with the universe and with divine powers. It fosters a gentle transition to the dream planes. It is also powerful for channelling angelic wisdom. Some crystals are said to contain angels – look for one when you choose yours.

Recharging its energies

Recharge it by wrapping it in blue silk and resting it in a drawer for forty-eight hours.

Angelite

Properties

Type: Sulphate/anhydrite. Opaque. Veined with wings, but smooth when polished

Colour: Pale or mid- to celestial blue-lilac or violet

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Uranus

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Pale blue

Guardian Angel: Raphael

Chakra: Throat/heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Chamomile, cedarwood, lemon verbena, rosewood and vanilla

Flowers: Lily, lily of the valley and white lotus Associated crystals: Blue celestite, blue topaz and sapphire

See also

Celestite

Mythology and history

Angelite is celestite that has been compressed over millions of years and so is the wiser stone. An ancient Peruvian healing stone, it has been adopted as an icon of angels and sacred sound.

Divinatory significance

You may be called upon to act as a peace-maker in a place where there are people who are backstabbing or gossiping to maintain their own position in a situation.

Healing and the environment

Apply angelite to the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet to free the energy pathways between the chakras. Angelite amplifies healing with sound, whether a single voice or a group singing Buddhist or Gregorian chants. It is excellent for harmonizing the body, mind and spirit.

Angelite alleviates sunburn and throat and thyroid difficulties. It also helps the lungs, upper arms and shoulders and the skull. It regulates fluid balances and aids a gentle weight-loss programme. Use it for peaceful action to alleviate suffering. It is an excellent stone to choose to send strength to prisoners or people living under harsh political systems or intolerant religious regimes.

Uses at work and home

Angelite encourages sensitivity and kindness; it is an antidote to abrasive people at home or work. Angelite deflects cruelty and violence and protects against prejudice or intolerance.

Children and animals

A beautiful gift, angelite connects children with their guardian angels. Place angelite in the ground when burying pets.

Psychic associations

Use it when reciting mantras, for work with angels and for praying to Mother Mary and to female saints and goddesses. Angelite will return bad wishes as waves of compassion. It increases telepathic powers with loved ones.

Recharging its energies

In a place of spiritual power, pray for peace.

Blue coral

Properties

Type: Organic calcareous skeletons of sea creatures. Pumice-like, pock marked and rough

Colour: Light to mid-blue with white spots or smudges

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Mid-blue

Guardian Angel: Tamiel

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Gardenia, kelp (seaweed), rosewood, vanilla and vervain

Flowers: Bluebell, marsh marigold and sea lavender

Associated crystals: Blue lace agate, blue chalcedony and angelite

Mythology and history

Blue coral is sacred to Diwata ng Dagat, the goddess of the sea in the Philippines, one of the main areas from which blue coral comes.

Divinatory significance

Flow with events for the moment, for the tide will turn and you may find that what you wanted soon comes within your grasp.

Healing and the environment

Blue coral is a very gentle, though seemingly weatherworn, form of coral. It will relieve illnesses that return periodically or which are made worse by temperature or other climatic conditions. It is good for all orthopaedic conditions and microsurgery and for bone and cell regrowth, especially in older people or those who have been ill for much of their lives. Blue coral also regenerates skin and will soothe inflamed skin, rashes and burns. It is excellent for acne or scar tissue. Use in dolphin or whale conservation empowerments.

Uses at work and home

Blue coral will assist regular shift workers to adapt their home and sleep patterns. It is protective for sailors and their families, ferry workers, fishermen, yachtsmen and women and those who live, work or travel by sea. Blue coral also helps home workers and the self-employed to build in leisure time.

Children and animals

Blue coral will establish a routine for chaotic children. It is good for all sea creatures.

Psychic associations

It is wonderful for sea and water magic, for visualizations of underwater worlds and for shamanic journeys to the sea mother. Use it in wise woman/croning rituals. Carry blue coral to help you rebuild emotionally and psychically if it feels like the end of the world.

Recharging its energies

Sprinkle with seawater or sea-salted water.

Aqua aura

Properties

Type: Clear crystal quartz bonded with molten gold. Transparent

Colour: Electric/sky-blue

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Uranus Element: Air

Candle Colour: Dark blue

Guardian Angel: Ausiel

Chakra: Crown/brow/throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Mace, agrimony, benzoin, peppermint and pine

Flowers: Narcissus, white iris and wild daffodil

Associated crystals: Aquamarine, blue quartz and iolite

Mythology and history

A New Age crystal, aqua aura combines magical gold (symbol of immortality, health, prosperity and perfection) and the pure energy of the crystal quartz, the light and life bringer. Aqua aura is the icon of the new era of spiritual knowledge, the Age of Aquarius.

Divinatory significance

You are evolving spiritually inside and may find that you need more personal time and space, which may not always be easy for those close to you to understand.

Healing and the environment

Aqua aura puts your mind, body and spirit back on track if you have strayed (as most of us have) from the ideal blueprint of our potential. It re-activates a sluggish immune system and shields you from all kinds of harmful rays, pollution and negative people and situations. Aqua aura reminds us of our responsibility, by individual thoughts and actions, for the overall well-being of the planet.

Uses at work and home

Aqua aura enables us to flow with life and to find our own unique path to fulfilment. It stops us merely responding to life and puts us in control of our destiny. Aqua aura encourages us to take responsibility, to maximize what we can give, and changes the emphasis from measuring success by material wealth to seeking a more ecological and spiritually focused lifestyle (while still recognizing that we have everyday responsibilities and still need to pay the bills).

Children and animals

Aqua aura emphasizes the value and importance of children and the respect we should accord to all life forms.

Psychic associations

Aqua aura creates a protective shield against psychic and psychological attack, against those who play mind or power games or seek to corrupt. It also kindles the divine spark or core within us all. Aqua aura can be used in rituals to attract prosperity, especially if others will also benefit from good fortune.

Recharging its energies

Aqua aura does not need recharging very often, but benefits from being in the presence of a group of spiritually focused people, and absorbing the positive powers of collective worship or ritual. Alternatively, carry aqua aura to the centre of a labyrinth and allow the spiralling energies to restore you both.

Aquamarine

Properties

Type: Beryl

Colour: Clear light blue or blue-green, the colour of a calm sea; occasionally a watery green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Turquoise

Guardian Angel: Rahab

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Myrrh, eucalyptus, kelp (seaweed), tea tree and vanilla

Flowers: Honeysuckle, hydrangea and lemon blossom

Associated crystals: Blue lace agate, emerald and jade

Mythology and history

In legend, aquamarine was believed to contain the power of the sea and so was dedicated to a number of sea goddesses, including the Greek love goddess, Aphrodite, whose name means born of the foam. Sailors used it as an amulet to keep them safe from storms and bring them securely home.

Divinatory significance

A stone of travel, aquamarine indicates either the possibility of travel or that you will have an opportunity to widen your mental and spiritual horizons.

Healing and the environment

Aquamarine relieves sore throats, tooth and gum problems, fluid retention, digestive, bladder and kidney disorders, colds and upper respiratory difficulties, seasickness and all forms of travel queasiness. It eases pain and overcomes panic attacks and phobias, especially those connected with travelling by air or sea. It also takes away fears that arise about dental treatment.

Aquamarine is a useful stone for absent healing. Use aquamarine in rituals or empowerments to cleanse the seas and protect endangered oceanic species, especially dolphins and whales.

Uses at work and home

Aquamarine enables couples who have grown apart to re-establish loving communication. At work, aquamarine attracts overseas business or connections. Aquamarine helps to resolve legal matters favourably and, often, amicably.

Children and animals

It is good for helping children to learn to swim or overcome a fear of water. Place one in a fish tank or pond for healthy marine life.

Psychic associations

Aquamarine increases intuition, psychic awareness and clairvoyance. It is a good focus for meditation and visualizations about Atlantis, Lemuria and other lost worlds. Use also to make wishes on each seventh wave.

Recharging its energies

Leave it in sea water on the night of the full moon or in water with a pinch of sea salt in a blue glass bowl. Rinse in clear water afterwards.

Azurite

Properties

Type: Copper carbonate with high copper content. Unlike lapis lazuli, it does not have gold iron pyrite flecks. Occasionally has a copper sheen

Colour: Brilliant azure blue to dark blue; may be mixed in the same crystal

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Bright blue

Guardian Angel: Satarel

Chakra: Brow/throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Ash, clary sage, laurel, melissa and sandalwood

Flowers: Blue lotus, cornflower and orchid

Associated crystals: Blue topaz, lapis lazuli and sodalite

Mythology and history

In Ancient Egypt, azurite was so sacred that only the priests knew and guarded its secrets; they used it in the inner sanctum to understand the will of the deities. It has been linked with the lost wisdom of Atlantis.

Divinatory significance

Listen to your dreams for guidance and trust your inner wisdom. If you do not already, you may soon feel ready to help others with your psychic and healing powers.

Healing and the environment

Azurite will help you to become a wise healer, amplifying your powers. It increases the flow of the life force, oxygenating the blood and repairing brain cells. Azurite breaks chronic worry patterns.

Uses at work and home

Azurite overcomes long-standing problems and breaks down communication blocks. It encourages professionalism and brings out leadership qualities. It aids elder statesmen, professors, researchers, librarians and counsellors.

Children and animals

Use azurite to communicate with children in the womb and to make the infant wise. It aids very old animals and long-living species.

Psychic associations

Azurite brings creative and prophetic dreams, visions of other dimensions and communication with spirit guides. Azurite aids recall of actual past lives.

Recharging its energies

Use starligize azurite.

Larimar

Properties

Type: Chain silicate of volcanic origin

Colour: Light to sky blue, streaked with white. Occasionally spots of red

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Blue or white

Guardian Angel: Rahab

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Catnip, coconut, lemon balm, lilac and vanilla

Flowers: Cherry blossom, iris and sweet pea

Associated crystals: Aquamarine, blue lace agate and blue coral

Mythology and history

Also known as blue pectolite or dolphin stone, larimar is found in the Dominican Republic on the Caribbean island of Hispanola. Larimar was first used by the indigenous Tainos Indians for jewellery. When colonists came from the Old World, led by Columbus, the stone fell out of use until it was rediscovered in 1916. Geologist Miguel Mendez named it after his daughter, Larissa, and mar, the Spanish for sea.

Divinatory significance

In a reading larimar can indicate either physical travel or change in a situation. This need not be a spur-of-the-moment decision; what is required is calm reasoning to determine if the change is what you really want before you begin to take action.

Healing and the environment

Larimar is a stone of self-healing and should be taken to doctor, therapist and hospital appointments to promote clear, open communication. Larimar will assist with chemical imbalances, personality disorders and fight infections. Placed in the bath it will de-stress you. Associated with the throat chakra, larimar helps you to speak from your soul.

Uses at work and home

Excellent for creating a calm atmosphere in a place where there are strong personalities, larimar facilitates successful business transactions. This stone should be carried by medical personnel and those who work in call centres, customer service and in public relations.

Children and animals

Larimar helps children communicate with teachers and health professionals. Put larimar beneath an animal bed before visiting the vet.

Psychic associations

Place larimar in water to create sacred water for ritual and for cleansing/empowering. Use it for increased telepathic communication, for accessing the Akashic wisdom and for working with healing dolphin energies.

Recharging its energies

Leave in moonlight in water for an hour.

Blue chalcedony

Properties

Type: Cryptocrystalline quartz. Translucent or semi-translucent

Colour: Varying shades of soft blues. Can be banded

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Yahriel

Chakra: Sacral/root

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lemon, coconut, gardenia, musk (synthetic) and sandalwood

Flowers: Mallow, marsh orchid and pansy

Associated crystals: Aqua aura, blue topaz and blue celestite

See also

Pink chalcedony

Mythology and history

Sometimes called sapphire in ancient times, blue chalcedony was sacred to the Classical moon and huntress goddess Diana. In Ancient Egypt, blue chalcedony was carved into scarab amulets, a symbol of rebirth that was placed with the mummy in the tomb. Among the Amerindians, blue chalcedony was made into arrowhead amulets to bring good fortune and protection.

Divinatory significance

Explain any difficulties you are having rather than bottling them up, which can lead to misunderstandings.

Healing and the environment

Blue chalcedony (especially banded blue) enables the fluids of the body to flow correctly, to avoid the building up of pressure, for example behind the eyes or in mucous membranes. It will ease hay fever and plant allergies that cause respiratory problems and may speed the dissolving/passing of gall and kidney stones. Pale blue increases lactation in nursing mothers (as does pink chalcedony).

Uses at work and home

Blue chalcedony is the reality factor, replacing illusions and vague promises with practical plans and realistic timescales for any joint or collective venture, whether at home or work. It melts away blocks to learning new foreign languages and codes or technical information, such as understanding computer manuals. Hold blue chalcedony and it will absorb stress and irritability, replacing them with a sense of calm and happiness.

Children and animals

Blue chalcedony encourages children and animals to be playful and express their joy.

Psychic associations

Blue chalcedony is the stone of telepathic psychic communication, whether with the essences of plants or animals, devas (higher spirits of nature), earth guardians, spirit guides, angels or life forms from other dimensions or planets. Paint an arrow head on a blue chalcedony and keep it in a charm bag to attract good fortune and protect you from psychic attack.

Recharging its energies

Revitalize blue chalcedony in running water.

Rainbow opal

Properties

Type: Hydrated silica, noncrystalline, precious opal with curved bands of colour

Colour: All precious opals are called rainbow stones because of the rainbow flash of colour, but the rainbow opal refers popularly to the blue, brilliantly hued kind. Some blue opals do not have fire, but share properties with the rainbow opal

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon, especially the blue moon

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Any with more than one colour banded in the same candle

Guardian Angel: Shekinah (or use Iris)

Chakra: Brow/throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Jasmine, lemon, moonwort, orris and vanilla

Flowers: Lily of the valley, magnolia and peach blossom

Associated crystals: Fire opal, rainbow moonstone and pearl

Mythology and history

Rainbow opal is sometimes found as boulder opal, hardened sandy clay with variable amounts of iron oxides and precious opal. It is the stone of Iris, Greek goddess of the rainbow, symbol of mysteries of the universe, momentarily revealed to humankind.

Divinatory significance

Rainbow opal is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Rainbow opal cleanses and energizes the aura and chakras. It alleviates depression and will bring light and absorb pain anywhere in the body or mind. It is especially helpful for the eyes, for all glandular problems and for exhaustion.

Uses at work and home

The possibilities for your life widen and you become aware of blessings in your life and avenues to be followed. It prevents us from defeating our own efforts by stopping half way or unconsciously finding obstacles in the way of fulfilment.

Children and animals

Rainbow opal will overcome disillusionment and early cynicism in children that has been caused by people letting them down (or, for example, from the disappointment of finding there is no physical Santa Claus). Use rainbow opal for unresponsive animals.

Psychic associations

Rainbow opal is the ultimate stone for all forms of wishes, for entering the world of the fey and for seeing beyond the physical and immediate reality to the wonders within nature and life.

Recharging its energies

Rainbow opal is very delicate and should be hydrated occasionally with a little water. Recharge it when you see a rainbow in the sky, or use a fibre-optic lamp.

Chrysocolla/gem silica

Properties

Type: Ring silicate. Crystallized gem silica is clearer and richly coloured. Semi-translucent

Colour: Bluey-green, turquoise, light blue or green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Turquoise

Guardian Angel: Pasiel

Chakra: Throat/heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Balm of Gilead, clover, lemon verbena, strawberry and vervain

Flowers: African violet, eucalyptus and geranium Associated crystals: Copper, malachite and blue lace agate

Mythology and history

Native American medicine men and women used chrysocolla to improve the body’s natural defences and increase resistance to disease. Their leaders utilized its powers to encourage peace between nations. Gem silica is a crystal of the goddess. It is traditionally the stone of musicians.

Divinatory significance

Be very gentle with yourself. It is an appropriate time to withdraw from activities or commitments you may no longer enjoy in order to allow yourself time for plenty of rest.

Healing and the environment

Chrysocolla is often called the women’s stone, because it heals all female-specific problems, especially those related to hormones and reproduction, from puberty right through to the end of a woman’s earthly life. It will ease the process of childbirth if held during labour.

However, for men as well as women, chrysocolla absorbs pain and fever, and regularizes the thyroid gland and blood-sugar levels. It effectively eases trauma of all kinds. It is a stone that is recommended for incest victims and for people who have suffered any form of sexual abuse.

Uses at work and home

Chrysocolla will heal a home and family after a burglary, mugging or verbal or physical abuse. It can be used to erect a gentle but effective force field around the home against unpleasant or intrusive neighbours.

Chrysocolla helps promote open and positive communication with people who are abusive or unhelpful. This can be very useful if you have to deal with officials or those whose services you need who persistently refuse to answer messages. Chrysocolla is excellent for all creative work. It will also protect your computer from pornographic or unpleasant emails and guard your phone from malicious callers.

Children and animals

Chrysocolla fosters a love of music in children. It will comfort a pregnant animal, especially a first-time mother.

Psychic associations

Use chrysocolla for inducing psychic dreams that answer your questions, sacred earth rituals and rituals that honour the mother goddess. It provides a focus when you want to attract love and banish fear.

Recharging its energies

Leave it with a copper ring or inside a copper bracelet overnight.

Blue topaz

Properties

Type: Island silicate

Colour: Light blue/green-blue. Sparkling

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Light blue

Guardian Angel: Zuriel

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lilac, cedarwood, lavender, rosewood and vanilla

Flowers: Delphinium, gladioli and iris

Associated crystals: Blue sapphire, lapis lazuli and turquoise

See also

White and golden topaz

Mythology and history

Blue topaz was used in the tips of divining wands to find precious metals. Blue topaz was associated with Jupiter both in the Classical world and by the Hindus and so was a stone of justice and litigation.

Divinatory significance

Blue topaz is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Blue topaz is good for the regrowth of tissue and facilitates steady metabolic functioning. It is helpful for the thyroid, the throat, the eyes, the ears and the nasal passages. It calms panic attacks, and cools menopausal hot flushes. It promotes calm in a confrontation or crisis and keeps older people mentally alert.

Uses at work and home

Blue topaz aids clear communication, allowing you to explain your point of view rationally, even under provocation, and helps you to give others a fair hearing. It defuses emotional undercurrents at home and clarifies situations at work when there are mixed messages. It is the stone of artists, writers and poets as well as public speakers, litigators, mediators and all those who seek justice.

Children and animals

Blue topaz will help a child or teenager who is being teased by siblings or peers to react calmly, without resorting to reciprocal shouting or violence. Blue topaz is potent when bird habitats or bird species are under threat of extinction.

Psychic associations

Use blue topaz in prayer to connect with saints and divinity. Wear blue topaz or focus on a crystal for meditation or for increasing your clairaudient powers.

Recharging its energies

Recharge with a soft blue candle or in the open air beneath a clear blue sky when the sun is still low in the sky.

Blue calcite

Properties

Type: Calcium carbonate, either polished smooth or as water ice. Semitransparent to translucent

Colour: From pale to mid-blue, sometimes with white veins

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Muriel

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Violet, ambergris (artificial), jasmine, mimosa, rose and yarrow

Flowers: Bluebell, sea lavender and speedwell

Associated crystals: Angelite, blue lace agate and celestite

Mythology and history

Blue calcite is the crystal of water nymphs, especially those that live in underground rivers or rock-enclosed pools.

Divinatory significance

A soft answer, it is said, turns away wrath and you may need to hold your tongue under provocation in order to keep the peace with people who will never change but must be tolerated for the moment.

Healing and the environment

Like all calcite, blue is good for strengthening teeth and bones. It assists neuralgia, sore throats, the neck glands, headaches caused by hormonal fluctuations and menopausal hot flushes. It is excellent for fevers, burns and scalds and sunburn. Blue calcite promotes speedy healing, especially of wounds.

Uses at work and home

In spite of its gentle nature, placed on window ledges and near doors or valuable equipment blue calcite will help deter thieves or vandals. At work, it is helpful during delicate transactions. It is the stone of negotiators and mediators, priests of both sexes and all religions, race and equality officers and crime-prevention officers.

Children and animals

Blue calcite gives confidence to children who are learning to swim. It steers teenagers away from bad company. Use blue calcite as an amulet for teething babies and for the emergence of second and wisdom teeth.

Blue calcite is good for snappy dogs or any other bad-tempered animals.

Psychic associations

Blue calcite spheres are fabulous when polished and are excellent for all scrying work. Alternatively, you can scry by putting small unpolished pieces in water, lit after dark by a circle of silver candles. It is a good wish crystal to bring you peaceful but creative dreams of how to make your wishes come true in the everyday world. It is also a useful crystal for meditation.

Recharging its energies

Recharge blue calcite in running water, if possible in a stream.

Hawk’s eye/falcon’s eye

Properties

Type: Quartz. Unoxidized brown tiger’s eye

Colour: Blue, chatoyant, reflecting light in wavy bands that makes it gleam. Also greyish blue or green with the bands of colour that distinguish tiger’s eye

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Mid-blue

Guardian Angel: Barachiel

Chakra: Brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lemon balm, agrimony, aloe vera, rosemary and sandalwood

Flowers: Lupin, larkspur flowering bergamot, mint

Associated crystals: Angelite, blue quartz and sapphire

See also

Cat’s eye

Mythology and history

According to legend, the hawk is one of the birds that flies closest to the sun. It was a power animal in Native American spirituality and appears on several medicine wheels, often representing the south. It is known as the stone of the wise ancestors in Amerindian lore. In Celtic myth, Merlin is said to take the shape of a hawk to travel swiftly, and the magical hawk of Achill is said to have acquired his wisdom before the beginning of the world and taught the poetic arts to druids.

Divinatory significance

Aim high, whether creatively, spiritually or in your work life, for you have the power to reach out for what would truly fulfil you.

Healing and the environment

Hawk’s eye aids eye complaints, especially problems with focus, and clears sinuses and congestion in the nasal passages. It relieves spine, neck and leg problems and aids mobility. Hawk’s eye protects during X-ray treatment and invasive medical tests.

Uses at work and home

Hawk’s eye is the crystal of expanding your horizons and is good for all forms of travel, especially journeys and holidays by air. At work, hawk’s eye will likewise promote new opportunities within your existing work structure, or offer transfers or scope to work in a new location or area of expertize.

Children and animals

Hawk’s eye alleviates the fear of flying in children (and in adults) and prevents travel sickness.

A wonderful stone for all birds, hawk’s eye is especially good for bird of prey conservation and rescue work.

Psychic associations

Hawk’s eye is probably the best stone for remote viewing (seeing beyond the range of the physical eye), for clairvoyance and for astral travel.

Recharging its energies

Leave it open to the skies for a day.

Blue goldstone

Properties

Type: A man-made or treated stone. Usually tiny copper crystals suspended in translucent glass; sometimes dyed aventurine

Colour: Blue, red, black and brown, with sparkling golden copper flecks

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Uranus

Element: Fire/earth

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Sahaqiel

Chakra: Crown/brow

Herbs, incenses and oils: Copal, lavender, pine, sweet pea and star anise

Flowers: Iris, periwinkle and star flower

Associated crystals: Iron pyrites, lapis lazuli and turquoise

Mythology and history

Blue goldstone was created, it is said, to a secret formula by Italian monks in the seventeenth century. They were reputed to chant a magical formula over it to make it especially powerful.

Divinatory significance

You may find yourself getting unexpected positive attention or a chance to show hidden talents. It can also herald promotion at work.

Healing and the environment

Blue goldstone is helpful for migraines and visual disturbances, for assisting the flow of blood, for detoxifying the system and for recovering from surgery or intensive therapies. It is also an energizer. It is good for land regeneration programmes and for cleaning the skies of fumes and pollution.

Uses at work and home

All colours of goldstone are good for redecorating or renovating an old or unmodernized house, for converting other buildings into homes or for adding space to an existing home.

At work, goldstone will ensure that you gain recognition and a chance to develop your strengths. It will also attract a better salary or job opportunities. It is helpful for amateur and professional actors and for those in the media, especially those who appear on radio or television, for PR and press officers and for all who want to become famous.

Children and animals

A magical stone for children, it will help them lose fear of the dark as they hold a piece of the starry sky. Animals tend not to like it.

Psychic associations

Goldstone is excellent for increasing telepathic powers and for all forms of star magic and channelling star guardians. Use it in charm bags to attract success and fame.

Recharging its energies

Leave goldstone by a window on a starry night.

Cavansite

Properties

Type: Calcium vanadium silicate. Very small crystals, needle-like, sometimes as rosettes or attached to a more muted stone such as a zeolite-like white stilbite, a mineral with which it is closely associated. Also found as globules. Transparent, translucent or pearly

Colour: Brilliant ocean blue, bright vibrant turquoise, deep blue or greenish-blue

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Uranus

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Turquoise

Guardian Angel: Shekinah

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Acacia, hyacinth, lilac, lotus and papyrus

Flowers: Delphinium, harebell and narcissus

Associated crystals: Azurite, lapis lazuli and turquoise

Mythology and history

Found in Poona, India, in 1988, bright-blue cavansite is one of the wonders of the modern crystal world. It was cast up by Gaia at a time when the world’s skies and the seas are at their most polluted.

Divinatory significance

Cavansite is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Cavansite is the stone of the spiritual healer who uses prayer to his or her personal divinity or source of goodness to send healing through their heart and their fingertips. Use it also to ask that an illness that has apparently been cured or is in remission will not return. It will assist those learning Reiki or other spiritual-healing techniques. It helps those who have speech, physical or learning disabilities to maximize their potential. Use it for rituals to cleanse the seas and skies and to ask the blessings of the earth mother.

Uses at work and home

Cavansite is excellent for moving into a home that has bad memories or a dark atmosphere. Use it also for overcoming family tragedy or bereavement. It is a stone for conventional and alternative healers, for speech therapists, music makers, especially those working with disadvantaged people, and all who work with the seriously ill or disabled.

Children and animals

Cavansite is helpful in the bedroom of a disabled or very sick child or teenager: it helps parents to love all children for what and who they are. It is beneficial for seriously injured or sick animals.

Psychic associations

Cavansite enhances sacred chants from all traditions and is excellent for working with sacred forms, the magic circle, the labyrinth, the mandala, the Medicine Wheel and any crystal grid or formation.

Recharging its energies

Pray to the deity that has special significance to you to give your cavansite power.

Tanzanite

Properties

Type: A rare form of zoisite, a group silicate. Clear

Colour: Blue-purple with flashing violet lights within

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Uranus

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Violet

Guardian Angel: Saritiel

Chakra: Crown/brow/throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Fennel, feverfew, lavender, lemongrass and sandalwood

Flowers: Clematis, lilac and purple thyme

Associated crystals: Iolite, purple fluorite, amethyst

Mythology and history

Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery. Legend says that, about thirty years ago, Masai cattle herders noticed a blue coloured stone after brown zoisite crystals on the ground were seared by a lightning fire that burned areas of the Merelani hills in Tanzania. Tanzanite can occur naturally in the blue-violet shade, but some that is sold is heat-treated brown zoisite and a number of blue stones are colour-enhanced.

Divinatory significance

Tanzanite is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Tanzanite restores vitality to the body, especially skin and hair, and encourages cell regeneration. It slows down the ageing process and increases the user’s inner light, so they radiate health. It protects against the side effects of necessary powerful treatments.

Uses at work and home

Tanzanite brings to the surface alternative aspects of the personality, so that a logical person will begin to develop their imaginative side spontaneously. This can open new avenues of employment.

Children and animals

Let children weave stories about the stone. You may find they include quite detailed accounts of past worlds. Tanzanite lightens a cloudy aura in animals.

Psychic associations

A very magical stone, tanzanite can connect you psychically with ancient wisdom, especially that of indigenous cultures whose spirituality has remained unchanged for thousands of years. It is good for creating guided visualizations, either alone or with a group, to explore other spiritual planes.

Recharging its energies

Leave it on any brown rock as a storm starts.

Apatite

Properties

Type: Complex phosphate of calcium, chlorine and fluorine. Apatite is the most common phosphate. Opaque. Can be polished to a shine

Colour: Light to bright to dark blue, sometimes within the same crystal. Occasionally with white veins

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air/earth

Candle Colour: Deep blue

Guardian Angel: Zuriel

Chakra: Throat

Herbs, incenses and oils: Ferns, lemongrass, laurel, lemon verbena, rosewood and vanilla

Flowers: Almond blossom, echinacea (purple coneflower) and anemone

Associated crystals: Calcite, kyanite and jade

Mythology and history

Because of its variety of colours and appearance, in the past apatite has been confused with other minerals. Hence it was given the Greek name apatao, which means to delude or deceive, in 1786 – a time when minerals were being more closely categorized. It is a mineral connected with the human and animal kingdom since apatite formed in the human body gives strength to teeth and bones. It is also a major constituent in the tusks of elephants, walruses, hippopotamuses and rhinoceros.

Divinatory significance

You can draw strength from those around you, but sometimes need to ask for help, especially if you are usually strong.

Healing and the environment

Apatite will strengthen teeth and bones and help prevent bone thinning. It makes dentistry a more positive experience by calming fears and helping you to relax. Apatite is helpful for weight loss and for controlling appetite. It lifts apathy, helps to clear confused thoughts and improves memory and concentration. Apatite is beneficial for treating long-term illness. Use it in all earth awareness rituals.

Uses at work and home

Apatite eases difficult relationships at work or home, helping you to communicate your feelings clearly without becoming over-emotional, however justifiable. It counters the stress overload that can lead to burnout.

Children and animals

It eases teething problems and growing pains.

Psychic associations

Apatite is good for meditation and for increasing clairvoyance, clairsentience, clairaudience and past-life recall. It is a very powerful stone for connecting with earth energies and earth spirits and for increasing psychic communication with animals, birds and sea creatures.

Recharging its energies

A delicate stone, place it near a vase of fresh flowers or on the soil near a herb or plant.

Green fluorite

Rough-cut and gem-quality green fluorite. Green fluorite is a gentle healer; it restores harmony to people, animals, plants and places. It provides subtle, soft but all-encompassing protection.

Properties

Type: Halide/fluorospar. Transparent or semitransparent. Single crystals, two pyramid crystals fused together or as separate or interlocking octahedral clusters

Colour: Mid- to dark green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: Lavender

Guardian Angel: Nahaliel

Chakra: Throat/heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Aloe vera, eucalyptus, lemon, lime and sarsaparilla

Flowers: Bog asphodel, sea aster and water lily

Associated crystals: All forms of jade, serpentine and watermelon tourmaline

See also

Purple and clear fluorite

Mythology and history

Called fluorspar in the eighteenth century, fluorite really is a crystal of the New Age. It has come to represent the crystalline energy pyramids of Atlantis and individual pieces can transmit the stored wisdom and healing of past millennia. If you shine an ultraviolet light on fluorite it becomes fluorescent and glows in the dark.

Each green fluorite crystal will tell its own story, if you close your eyes. If you can, choose this crystal personally rather than by mail order, to get the one that is right for you.

Divinatory significance

Spend quiet time, preferably near water, alone or with friends and family and postpone any decisions or actions until you are fully in tune with your spiritual self again.

Healing and the environment

Green fluorite transmits knowledge and is a gentle healer that detoxifies and harmonizes the whole system. Placed on the throat or heart centres, green fluorite will cleanse and energize all the chakras.

Green fluorite brings resistance to disease and shields you against envy. It assists the absorption of vital nutrients, aiding teeth, bones, blood vessels, lungs and spleen. Green fluorite helps scars to heal, both physical and emotional. It is beneficial for arthritis, sore throats, ulcers of all kinds, heartburn, indigestion and insomnia. It regularizes hormonal, anxiety- or stress-based conditions. It is especially good for premenstrual syndrome and the menopause. Use it when a person is tired of medical treatments, to strengthen their natural resistance to the condition and to quieten fears and frustration when results are slow.

Green fluorite will send healing energies to places that are no longer green and to threatened wildlife habitats.

Uses at home and work

Use to create order out of chaos and to focus a group of people (the family or work colleagues) on a project that must be tackled. Green fluorite will improve and stabilize any partnership or cooperative venture, whether in personal or work life.

Children and animals

Green fluorite is quietly encouraging for a reluctant student.

Green fluorite is a lovely stone in the garden and will attract butterflies.

Psychic associations

Green fluorite is wonderful for meditation in the open air and to channel the wisdom of nature essences, especially water spirits. It strengthens the value of herbs, flowers or flower and tree essences when used in healing or magic. A green fluorite wand will direct energies from nature into your heart and empower herbs for healing. Use the pyramid-shaped crystals for visions of Atlantis and other lands lost beneath the waves and to increase your psychic awareness. Use them also to heal damaged plants or other crystals that have lost their vitality or are cracked.

Recharging its energies

Green fluorite is not a sunlight stone. To revitalize it, leave it in water overnight under the light of the moon. A stream would be perfect, otherwise use a bowl of water.

Moss agate

Properties

Type: Oxide, chalcedony (quartz). Smoother and more translucent than tree agate. Translucent to opaque

Colour: Colourless with profusion of deep green tendrils inside of hornblende that may make it appear green; pale blue or a deeper green with pale blue or white inclusions

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Earth

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Moss or olive green

Guardian Angel: Cathetel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Ferns, moss, parsley, thyme and wintergreen

Flowers: Snowdrop, crocus and wood anemone

Associated crystals: Amber, leopardskin jasper and tree agate

History and mythology

Moss agate is frequently called the gardeners’ crystal because of its association with plant growth. To the Native Americans moss agate brought rain, and in Ancient Rome it was a talisman, bringing good fortune and the blessings of the deities. In Europe, it was placed in gardens, orchards and fields as an offering to the guardians of the land.

Divinatory significance

Give matters and new projects or relationships time to take root and to evolve naturally. This really is a case for gentle nurturing and patience.

Healing and the environment

Moss agate is a gradual cleanser that can be worn next to the skin or used daily, to encourage growth of healthy cells and tissue within the body, to relieve skin infections and to fight colds and flu.

Moss agate will protect your aura by filtering out impurities and negativity. It is helpful in hot weather or climates to prevent dehydration (drink water in which one has been soaking). Use it in rituals or empowerments for drought-ridden areas.

Uses at work or home

Moss agate brings beauty to environments in less than ideal settings. It will slowly attract money or promotion. It is beneficial for those who work in horticulture, botany or alternative medicine, especially aromatherapy or herbalism. Plant moss agate in a flowerbed for healthy plant growth.

Children and animals

Moss agate will attract friends to children who are lonely or are starting a new school. It helps animals in towns keep a link with the natural world. Moss agate encourages a balanced attitude in children and young animals and helps children and pets to bond.

Psychic associations

Carry moss agate to increase your understanding of the magical properties of herbs, flowers and trees and to channel wisdom from devas and other nature spirits. In meditation, follow the pathways of a clear moss agate into other realms.

Recharging its energies

Leave moss agate with greenery for a night every month as it is a hard-working crystal and its energies become depleted.

Moldavite

Properties

Type: Silica-based tektite. Transparent to translucent, some more opaque. Glassy, occasionally pitted

Colour: Deep bottle green when gem quality. Some blackish

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Uranus

Element: Fire

Candle Colour: Deep green

Guardian Angel: Star system and planetary guardians

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Citron, mace, papyrus, pine and star anise

Flowers: Blue lotus, orchid and star flower

Associated crystals: Lava/pumice, meteorite and tektite

See also

Tektite

Mythology and history

Moldavite was formed in a meteor collision about fifteen million years ago in the Moldau River valley, in the Czech Republic. Used as an amulet from Palaeolithic times, moldavite is the fusion of meteor (extraterrestrial powers) with melted earthly rock (terrestrial). Because of this, moldavite is said to be the stone of those who feel that their spiritual roots or origins lie in the Sirius star system, the Pleiades, Orion or some other constellation or planet.

Divinatory significance

Do not worry if you sometimes feel alienated from the material world. You have unique gifts that can be developed if you follow your own unique path.

Healing and the environment

A powerful healer for body, mind and soul, moldavite is an excellent choice if the cause of an illness cannot be identified, conventional treatments are not responding or the problem is caused by the pollution or ills of the modern world (especially asthma and disturbances of electrical impulses in the brain). It is good for giving up smoking.

At work and in the home

Moldavite is a stone to wear if you live alone, whether by choice or necessity, or if you work or spend long periods in your own company: it will strengthen you and help you rejoice in your unique qualities. Moldavite can leave you feeling spaced out, so do not have it in the car when you are driving.

Children and animals

Moldavite connects children with the wider universe. Do not be surprised if they talk about other worlds or lives. It is good for spiritually evolved cats.

Psychic associations

Moldavite is called the Grail stone because it can show you the path to spiritual enlightenment. Use it to promote beautiful dreams and for star walking. It is also useful to channel wisdom from positive extraterrestrial sources.

Recharging its energies

Leave moldavite with a tiny piece of pumice and float the pumice away afterwards, or leave outdoors on the night of a meteor shower.

Amazonite

Properties

Type: Feldspar. Opaque

Colour: Blue-green or turquoise to darker greens with white lines

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Uranus

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Turquoise

Guardian Angel: Voel

Chakra: Throat and heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Basil, bergamot, fennel, mint and patchouli

Flowers: Hyacinth, hydrangea and tulip

Associated crystals: Aventurine, bloodstone and green garnet

Mythology and history

Called the stone of courage, Amazonite is named after the Amazon women warriors because it is said to have originated in a land of women. Archaeological evidence suggests the Amazonians were a matriarchal society, possibly surviving from the Bronze Age.

Divinatory significance

You are in a strong position, so stand up for what you think is important, especially if you are fighting prejudice or injustice. You may need to assume leadership if others are divided or confused about priorities.

Healing and the environment

Amazonite helps both sexes to improve and maintain health and is especially good for breast problems. It assists the functioning of the passages of the throat, the thyroid gland, and nerve and neurological connections. It is good also for the upper spine and for encouraging a healthier lifestyle. A powerful crystal, amazonite fills the heart with courage and determination to do good in the world.

Uses at work and home

Amazonite reduces anger and irritability in the home and prevents people bringing work or school-related problems home. It brings success at work by helping you to focus, and makes sure you are in the right place at the right time. It also combats sexism.

Children and animals

Amazonite will activate lazy teenagers and slovenly children. It also helps house-train young animals.

Psychic associations

Amazonite is excellent for working with natural forces, including nature spirits. It is useful in weather and animal magic, and for contacting water and earth spirits. It works well with other crystals. Amazonite also increases clairvoyant and telepathic abilities. Use amazonite to attract good luck, especially when speculating.

Recharging its energies

Use a mint infusion to recharge amazonite.

Green aventurine

Properties

Type: Oxide, quartz, containing mica that can sometimes give aventurine a metallic, iridescent glint. Opaque

Colour: Light to darker green, often a soft mid-green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Planet: Mercury

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Mint-green or silver

Guardian Angel: Anauel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Bay, oakmoss, parsley, patchouli and sagebrush

Flowers: Begonias, daphne and gladioli

Associated crystals: Amazonite, bloodstone and olivine/peridot

See also

Red aventurine

Mythology and history

Green aventurine is sometimes called Indian jade, or the stone of heaven. It is known as the gambler’s stone because it is the luckiest of all stones in games of chance. Green aventurine is often placed in charm bags to bring good fortune and money.

Divinatory significance

An excellent time to take a chance to gain what you want by speaking out, trying a new money-spinning idea or following a spur-of-the-moment inspiration.

Healing the environment

Green aventurine is good for the eyes; it improves physical acuity and also enhances mental perception and the ability to discriminate between what is relevant and what is not. It calms free-floating anxiety, panic attacks and irregular heart rhythms. Green aventurine is a fertility stone and eases genito-urinary problems.

Uses at work and home

Aventurine helps to prevent accidents owing to haste or carelessness and so is good for all DIY. At work it increases opportunities by giving you belief in your own talents. Aventurine also protects your aura from psychic/psychological intrusion or draining by emotional vampires.

Children and animals

Aventurine helps children to take more care with school work and handwriting. It is good for clumsy pets that live in a confined space.

Psychic associations

Aventurine can be used to induce psychic dreams, to bring answers or to see into the future. It also increases clairvoyance. It is a good source of earth energy: hold it in the opposite hand from your pendulum when divining. Leave as a gift for nature essences.

Recharging its energies

Occasionally rest green aventurine in the leaves of a green plant during daylight.

Tree agate

Properties

Type: Oxide, quartz. Opaque

Colour: White with green tree-like inclusions or veins

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Planet: Mercury/Earth

Element: Air

Candle Colour: White

Guardian Angel: Maktiel

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Cedar, ivy, cypress, rosewood and pine

Flowers: All flowering trees

Associated crystals: Jade, moss agate and rutilated quartz

See also

Moss agate

History and mythology

Tree agate is quite coarse and knobbly even when polished. In earlier times, the white form of dendritic agate (really dendritic chalcedony) was called tree agate. Moss agate is very similar in mineralogical terms but tree agate is more translucent and the markings more feathery. Tree agate (or possibly dendritic agate) was considered a stone of abundance by the Ancient Greeks, and was buried in the fields at the time of sowing to ensure a good harvest. It was also much loved by Native Americans, who used it to help them connect with the power of the trees.

Divinatory significance

Go back to the roots of any problem or situation and you will find the answer. A good time for family reunions, especially with people you have not contacted for a while, and for strengthening friendship and connections in your neighbourhood.

Healing and the environment

Tree agate relieves small bone, vein and capillary problems and obstructions within the body. It is very good for calming people who worry about their health. Use it in empowerments and rituals for reforestation.

Uses at home and work

Tree agate strengthens family roots, links with places of origin and maintains family traditions. At work, it leads to gradual success and prosperity and helps networking. It protects you while travelling by air and car.

Children and animals

It helps children to become more reflective, especially those who rush from disaster to disaster. It is good for wildlife in the garden.

Psychic associations

Tree agate is a good focus for tree magic of all kinds, for channelling tree wisdom, for divination with tree or Ogham staves and as an amulet for druids.

Recharging its energies

Smudge tree agate with cedar or pine.

Green calcite

Properties

Type: Calcium carbonate, either as clear optical or translucent water ice

Colour: Pale to mid-green, occasionally emerald

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Earth

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Pale green

Guardian Angel: Zuphlas

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Clary sage, honeysuckle, lemon balm, rosewood and wintergreen

Flowers: Cowslip, evening primrose and bee orchid

Associated crystals: Jade, prehnite and serpentine

Mythology and history

Green calcite is the stone of the small benign earth spirits who live in woodlands or grassy fairy mounds, especially near water. It was used in ritual-giving ceremonies by the Amerindians, who honoured visitors with valuable gifts, knowing that the spirits would ensure abundance likewise came their way.

Divinatory significance

You may seem to be giving more than you receive but the balance will soon be redressed.

Healing and the environment

Green calcite will help to prevent and clear infections. It is good for directing absent healing to the recipient. Green calcite also helps with arthritic and bone discomfort and encourages bone health. Use it in empowerments against all forms of dumped waste.

Uses at work and home

A wonderful stone for creating a calm home and workplace. Put a dish of green calcite in the bathroom to add to bath water to ease away the stress of the day (mix it with blue calcite for total relaxation). It is good for all philanthropists, charity workers and volunteers in any charitable or social work and anyone taking part in sports to guard against injuries. It also helps combat workaholic tendencies.

Children and animals

Green calcite works well with hyperactive children, particularly those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It also encourages children to be generous. Use it to cool children and animals in very hot weather.

Psychic associations

Bury pieces in your garden to ask the help of earth spirits to create you a beautiful garden. It is a lovely stone for meditation.

Recharging its energies

Hold it under running water, preferably beneath a fountain or small waterfall.

Emerald

Properties

Type: Beryl. Sparkling

Colour: Brilliant green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Green

Guardian Angel: Ashmodiel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lilac, avocado, lily of the valley, strawberry and vanilla

Flowers: Cyclamen, daisy and rose

Associated crystals: Aquamarine, chrysoberyl and topaz

Mythology and history

According to the Book of Revelations, the throne of God is made of emerald. An early Christian bishop, Andreas of Caesarea, declared the emerald to be the stone of Saint John the Apostle and to have the power to release penitents from their sins.

In Ancient Egyptian myth, Thoth, the god of wisdom, gave emeralds to the world. The semi-divine Egyptian magician Hermes Trismegistos created the legendary Emerald Tablet, on which, it was said, were engraved all the secrets of magic and alchemy. Today, emerald is traditionally given to celebrate the fifty-fifth wedding anniversary.

Divinatory significance

Emerald is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Emerald assists eyesight and helps eye infections and conditions linked with the heart, lungs, thymus, pancreas and lymph nodes. It increases inner radiance and preserves youthfulness. Emerald is excellent for women in labour. It also improves the general health of older women and makes the transition through the menopause easier and more comfortable. Emerald helps to restore beauty to places that have been despoiled and promotes reforestation.

Uses at work and home

Emerald protects women against all forms of domestic violence or abuse. In the workplace, emerald strengthens women and helps them to overcome prejudice and sexism. Even a very small uncut emerald will shield counsellors and care or social workers of both sexes and help them not to become weighed down by their responsibilities.

Children and animals

It is not suitable for children or animals.

Psychic associations

Emeralds are potent for older women in both magic and psychic development. Use emeralds for rituals for the gradual increase of prosperity and for preserving fidelity in a permanent relationship. Wear an emerald out of sight near your heart for attracting love, especially in later life. Wear an emerald openly for healing a relationship after infidelity or separation. Emerald can also be used in binding against psychic or emotional attack and for banishing nightmares and night phantoms. A symbol of rebirth in Egypt, emerald is useful for past-life recall.

Recharging its energies

Wipe emerald with a soft cloth and recharge its powers by the waxing moon.

Azurite with malachite

Properties

Type: Copper carbonate

Colour: Blue and green marbled effect, bright stone with large green flecks, turquoise or azure-blue and deep-green patches

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Planet: Uranus

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Turquoise

Guardian Angel: Gediel

Chakra: Crown

Herbs, incenses and oils: Birch, bergamot, citronella, lemon verbena and sandalwood

Flowers: Delphinium, sea holly and sweet pea

Associated crystals: Azurite, lapis lazuli and turquoise

Mythology and history

Azurite is often found growing with or on malachite in the same rock, forming a single crystal. These crystals can be a major source of copper. Like all combination stones, the combined power of azurite with malachite is different from and greater than that of the separate minerals.

When it is cut and polished it is sometimes called the planet stone, because it resembles the earth as seen from space, and so it has become a symbol of efforts to save the planet.

Divinatory significance

It is not used in divination.

Healing and the environment

Azurite with malachite is a powerful psychic and spiritual healer, especially when used with prayer. Azurite with malachite works on a spiritual rather than physical level, cleansing the higher aura levels that, if blocked, can suppress the body’s natural immune system and cause illness. Some people reportedly have found it helpful during cancer treatment.

Uses at work and home

Azurite with malachite crystals are the ultimate worry stone and, if held, will dispel panic or anger and restore a better sense of priority. Use it to dispel personal negativity and resentment that may be stopping you building on more positive aspects of the situation. It helps people who have been betrayed in love to forgive and either rebuild or move on.

Children and animals

Azurite with malachite encourages children to become citizens of the world and to work against prejudice of all kinds, especially racial. It is not used for animals.

Psychic associations

It is a stone of meditation and will connect you to cosmic and divine energies. However, it may make you more sensitive to the suffering of others, so is not without a price.

Recharging its energies

Leave azurite with malachite overnight in moonlight around full moon.

Malachite

Properties

Type: Copper carbonate. Opaque

Colour: Emerald to grass-green with black or occasionally pale-green stripes, bands, swirls or marbling

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Emerald green

Guardian Angel: Ausiel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Cedar, fennel, parsley, pine and sage

Flowers: Gladioli, hollyhock and iris

Associated crystals: Amazonite, aventurine and fuchsite

Mythology and history

Malachite is associated with strong love goddesses, who could be benign or vengeful, such as Our Lady of the Mountains in central Russia. She is a form of Venus who might protect miners if appeased. Freyja, the Viking goddess of love and beauty, was another patroness who could be cruel to cast-off lovers.

Divinatory significance

Follow your heart but do not be swayed by sentiment or pressurized by those who appeal to your emotions. A time for tough love.

Healing and the environment

Malachite is a cleansing and protective crystal for the industrialized world. It cleanses the auric field and aids the heart, stomach, liver and lungs. It eases migraines, kick-starts the immune system and makes body and mind feel refreshed each new day.

Uses at work and home

It is good for cleansing and protecting workspaces against all the pollution and toxicity of noise, over-bright fluorescent lighting and harmful rays emitted by electrical equipment. Place near a computer or phone to filter out negative communication. At home, keep near white goods in the kitchen and by televisions and computers.

Children and animals

Use at least two crystals per room if a child has a television or computer. Put beneath a pet bed if your animal lives in a town or near a radio mast or a power station.

Psychic associations

A powerful crystal for protective magic, especially if travelling by air or on congested motorways, and for amplifying wishes in magic. It is useful for prosperity magic, especially concerning business matters, and as an amulet for all salespersons, especially at conferences and trade shows.

Recharging its energies

Cleanse regularly as it is so hard working. Wash it under running water, even though this weakens the stone. When it crumbles, bury your malachite as it has done its work.

Nephrite and jadeite

Jade in all its forms brings good health and is associated with long life, faithful love and kindness.

Properties

Type: Jadeite and nephrite/silicates

Colour: Pale to dark green. Transparent to opaque. Occasionally pink, purple, brown, black and white or even lavender or emerald green. Nephrite is creamier and less translucent than jadeite

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Venus/Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: All shades of green

Guardian Angel: Anael

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Rose, chamomile, lavender, mugwort and patchouli

Flowers: Cherry blossom, orchid, and all marsh flowers

Associated crystals: Green jasper, moss agate and rose quartz

See also

Bowenite

Mythology and history

Nephrite, the most common jade, and Chinese jade are found in New Zealand, Europe and the Americas. Jadeite is virtually identical and is found mainly in the Americas, but also in China, Japan and Burma.

In the Neolithic period, the two mineral forms of jade were used for tools and weapons as well as amulets. Jade is the sacred stone of the Maoris, who call it greenstone.

In Ancient China, food bowls were made of jade to energize the contents with life force, and a piece of jade was placed on the eyelids or in the mouth of the dead to ensure the immortality of the spirit. Young men would present a bride-to-be with a jade butterfly as a symbol of faithful and eternal love. According to legend, a young man entered a wealthy mandarin’s palace in pursuit of a rare green butterfly and saw the mandarin’s beautiful daughter. Unusually, the story ended happily with a wedding and with the youth presenting a jade butterfly to his new bride as a token of their meeting. Traditionally, jade is used in lovemaking to create a deeply spiritual as well as an erotic experience and to unite lovers at every level.

Divinatory significance

Respond gently and with compassion to those who are being difficult; they may be acting out of personal unhappiness and inadequacy.

Healing and the environment

Jade is excellent both for interpreting your dreams and for developing lucid dreaming. Jade brings out innate healing abilities. It is a gentle healer that boosts the body’s self-healing powers. It helps to resolve emotional or spiritual problems that may be lowering physical resistance. It is effective against lung, eye, bladder and kidney problems, fluid retention and blood-sugar imbalances. It aids arthritis and bone or joint pain or stiffness, especially of the hips. It calms and balances the mind and emotions and aids self-love and self-esteem.

Like moss agate, Jade is a gardener’s crystal and encourages the growth of beautiful gardens. Also known also as a rain bringer, jade can act as a focus for anti-drought rites.

Uses at home and work

Jade will attract good fortune and prosperity to the home and workplace. At work, have jade in your pocket or on your desk when you are negotiating or trying to attract new business. Jade also helps to keep your mind sharp if other people are blinding you with facts and figures.

Children and animals

All forms of jade attract friendship and so are good for lonely or shy children. Jade is a good stone during the teenage years, to help balance hormonal swings and unstable emotions.

A natural transmitter of life energies, jade helps to keep pets healthy and encourages longevity. Use the softer opaque shades of jade and place crystals overnight in water bowls. It is very helpful for an animal giving birth.

Psychic associations

Jade repels negativity from others and is a good stone to have in your workspace to keep away intrusions from unfriendly colleagues or overcritical employers. Jade protects babies and women, especially pregnant women and new mothers.

Recharging its energies

Cleanse and recharge jade under running water or with a sage or peppermint infusion.

Bowenite (new jade)

Properties

Type: Hard serpentine. Often translucent and gem-like

Colour: Pale to mid- or dark green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon/Neptune

Element: Water

Candle Colour: All shades of green

Guardian Angel: Ergediel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Jasmine, eucalyptus, grapefruit, mimosa, lemon and sandalwood

Flowers: Jasmine, gardenia and night stock

Associated crystals: Jade, green jasper and tree agate

Mythology and history

Bowenite was much beloved in Russia before the Revolution. Fabergé created a bowenite clock in honour of the birth of Tsar Nicholas and also used it to adorn a number of his legendary ornamental eggs.

Divinatory significance

Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is to stand back and let other people make their mistakes without interference.

Healing and the environment

Bowenite resembles polished jade. However, psychically it has much more powerful energies. A powerful but user-friendly stone, it will ease skin disorders, strengthen the heart and help to stabilize blood-sugar levels. It also helps to balance hormonal swings and benefits nursing mothers who are having problems breastfeeding. Rub bowenite on the scalp to improve the health of both the scalp and hair. Also use it to help heal past traumas.

Uses at work and home

A bringer of abundance to work and home, bowenite gives the confidence to try new activities and alternative methods. It redresses the balance if you have controlling partners at home or dominant colleagues at work.

Children and animals

Bowenite is helpful for encouraging a child’s independence, whether at school for the first time, changing schools or leaving home. It benefits habitually complaining children. It also motivates an inactive pet to explore.

Psychic associations

Bowenite encourages you to become more spontaneous in divination and to trust your psychic powers. It is good in love rituals or as a gift to a lover who is reluctant to commit to a relationship through inertia or because his or her present life is very comfortable.

Recharging its energies

Smudge bowenite with cedar or sage.

Serpentine

Properties

Type: Serpentine, magnesium silicate. Gem-quality bowenite or new jade. Williamsite is softer

Colour: Olive to pale green. May be veined or spotted. Opaque green serpentine has brown or red inclusions. Rarely silvery

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Planet: Pluto

Element: Earth/water

Candle Colour: Brown

Guardian Angel: Tubiel

Chakra: Solar plexus

Herbs, incenses and oils: Fennel, agrimony, dill, eau de cologne, lavender

Flowers: Flowering bramble, convolvulus and ground ivy

Associated crystals: Amazonite, bowenite and leopardskin jasper

See also

Bowenite

Mythology and history

Serpentine is named because of its resemblance to snake skin (some kinds are scaly) and because of the associated belief that it protected against snake and other venomous bites. It was sacred to ancient snake goddesses: the Egyptian goddess Uadjet was pictured as a winged and crowned cobra, spitting poison at any who would do the pharaoh harm.

Divinatory significance

You may, like the snake, wish to shed your old skin and move on to a new beginning.

Healing and the environment

Serpentine directs its energies to the root of a problem or illness, even if this is not consciously known. Serpentine removes toxins and eases fatigue and illnesses that cause a lack of energy or muscle weakness. It calms nerves and soothes bites, stings, eczema and other skin disorders. It also balances hormones and mood swings.

Uses at home and work

Serpentine will increase your self-confidence and teach you to trust your intuition in situations where there is no clear information or others are trying to deceive you. It is protective against vicious tongues and scandalmongering.

Children and animals

Serpentine helps children to overcome fears of insects, snakes and lizards. It aids animals with skin complaints and keeps away fleas, ticks and mites.

Psychic associations

Serpentine strengthens connection with earth energies, especially at ancient sites and when working, through visualization, with energies of mythical creatures such as dragons.

Recharging its energies

Pass through the flame of a brown candle.

Diopside

Properties

Type: Calcium-magnesium silicate or calcium-iron silicate

Colour: Light to greenish-brown to very dark green with a glassy or pearly lustre. Also white, transparent to translucent. Chromium-rich diopside is bright green. Sometimes found as a green cat’s eye with tiny rutile inclusions. A much darker green diopside contains a shimmering four-pointed star

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Raphael

Chakra: Throat/heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Clover, ferns, gum mastic, lavender and lemongrass

Flowers: Forsythia, impatiens and lilac

Associated crystals: Cat’s eye, rutilated quartz and violan

See also

Violan and cat’s eye

Green/orbicular jasper

Orbicular jasper is infused with the ebbs and flows of the sea and helps us to get in tune with our bodily and spiritual rhythms.

Green jasper is associated with the heart chakra.

Properties

Type: Chalcedony quartz. Opaque. Orbicular jasper can have gleaming green rhyolite with chalcedony inclusions

Colour: Light to dark green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Planet: Earth

Element: Earth/water

Candle Colour: Green or white

Guardian Angel: Matariel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lotus, chamomile, kelp, lemon balm and water mosses

Flowers: Marsh marigold, sea lavender and water lily

Associated crystals: Bloodstone, leopardskin jasper and moss agate

See also

Yellow, leopardskin and red jasper

Mythology and history

Green jasper is the crystal of the rainmaker in a number of societies, including Eastern Europe and Native North America. The more exotic orbicular or ocean jasper comes from Madagascar and is given its name not only because of its appearance, but also because it can only be gathered at low tide. It is also called the moon gem because the orbs can resemble craters on the moon.

Divinatory significance

Green jasper signifies that new energies are coming into your life and is good for fertility in any way. Orbicular jasper reminds you to look for hidden meanings behind offers.

Healing and the environment

Green jasper helps the body to absorb nutrients from food, eases respiratory difficulties, especially those related to the weather, and prevents fluid from building up. Orbicular jasper relieves colds, flu and similar viral infections and restores the connection with biorhythms. Use orbicular or ocean jasper for healing polluted seas and protecting marine life; it is good when oil slicks occur.

Uses at work and home

Green jasper balances different aspects of your life and prevents overwork burnout. Orbicular jasper takes the edge off competition and rivalry at work or home.

Children and animals

Both kinds of crystal will help a baby or young child establish proper sleep rhythms. It is good for both cold-water and tropical fish.

Psychic associations

Green jasper gradually attracts money or good luck. Use orbicular jasper for working with the archetypal sea mothers and for visualizations or journeys beneath the sea.

Recharging its energies

Sprinkle with seawater or salted water.

Green garnet

Uvarovite has the power to heal dissension or bad feelings in the workplace or at home.

Properties

Type: Island silicate. Uvarovite is calcium chromium silicate. Tsavorite, a sparkling grossularite garnet, contains vanadium and chromium. All are brilliant

Colour: Uvarovite is bright to emerald green, transparent to translucent. Andradite, called Demantoid, the green variety, used for gems, is light to medium green with horsetail, fibrous inclusions. Tsavorite is light, emerald or deep green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Planet: Venus

Element: Water/fire

Candle Colour: Green

Guardian Angel: Anael

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Mimosa, neroli, rose, rosemary and ylang ylang

Flowers: Cyclamen, freesia and rose

Associated crystals: Serpentine, emerald and red garnet

Mythology and history

Uvarovite and tsavorite are less common than grossular green garnet. The properties of all three types are almost identical. Use either the gem or rough form of garnet in healing, protective or magical work. Green garnet was a favourite gem of Fabergé, who used it to decorate his fabulous jewelled eggs.

Divinatory significance

It is a time when your heart is stirring, whether in love or a desire to travel or fulfil a dream. The feelings should be taken seriously even if the desire cannot be achieved at once.

Healing and the environment

All green garnets display anti-inflammatory properties and are helpful for rheumatism, arthritis, mucous-membrane swelling, areas of irritation, boils, swollen scar tissue and wounds. They help to detoxify the kidneys and the blood.

Uses at home and work

Green garnets are excellent for bringing feelings and matters into the open in a positive way. At work, green garnets will lessen the power of factions and reduce politicking. It is an excellent stone for protecting rural homes.

Children and animals

It is not a stone for children or animals.

Psychic associations

Use green garnet in rituals to find your twin soul, for helping secret love to become accepted by others and for protective rituals against emotional or psychic vampires.

Recharging its energies

Polish your stone carefully with a green silk cloth and speak a continuous chant for cleansing and empowerment.

Dioptase

Properties

Type: Hydrated copper silicate. Usually too soft for a gemstone. Transparent and shiny or slightly translucent

Colour: Emerald to deep, rich green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Deep pink

Guardian Angel: Hagiel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Lemon balm, geranium, rose, tansy and vanilla

Flowers: Lobelia, pink roses and wisteria

Associated crystals: Chrysocolla, copper and emerald

Mythology and history

Called the copper emerald, like the emerald it is a stone of Venus and the love goddesses, but in their most gentle, benign aspects, displaying platonic love and compassion to humankind, the earth and its creatures.

Divinatory significance

Gracefully let go of what cannot be mended and above all forgive yourself for being only human after all.

Healing and the environment

Dioptase promotes a healthy cardiovascular and central nervous system, aids the heart and helps maintain stable blood pressure. It will ease ulcers of all kinds and stomach upsets, especially those caused by stress. Above all, dioptase stops us from abusing our own bodies carelessly or through a lack of self-love. Healers should keep one with them to make sure they do not absorb their patients’ illnesses through over-empathizing.

Use dioptase to heal hatred between nations and within nations and to soften prejudices and bigotry of all kinds.

Uses at work and home

If you have had a hard time lately, dioptase will bring good things back into your life, though they may not be what you thought you wanted. Dioptase helps to mend family quarrels (send tiny pieces with a note of reconciliation). Use it also to return to employment without bitterness if you were unfairly dismissed or demoted.

Children and animals

Dioptase teaches children to be forgiving, especially when they discover that their parents or best friends are not perfect. Use it for small birds and tiny animal pets. Dioptase encourages children to handle them gently.

Psychic associations

Use dioptase in abundance rituals and when banishing old sorrows.

Recharging its energies

Dioptase is very delicate: pass an amethyst or rose quartz pendulum over it.

Rainbow obsidian

Properties

Type: Volcanic glass/magma. It has an iridescent chatoyant gleam, caused by trapped water bubbles

Colour: Characterized by the rainbow sheen. Some are green with flashes of purple, red and blue, others are blacker with a blue sheen

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Element: Fire/water

Candle Colour: Silver

Guardian Angel: Zachariel

Chakra: Sacral

Herbs, incenses and oils: Apricot, ambergris (synthetic), eucalyptus, lemon and lemon balm

Flowers: Jasmine, sea holly and water lily

Associated crystals: Rainbow opal, rainbow quartz and moldavite

Mythology and history

Rainbow obsidian is volcanic glass/magma, formed when lava hardens so fast no crystalline structures are created. Like all rainbow stones, it is said to be found at the end of the rainbow and has the power to grant wishes. Rainbow obsidian spheres are highly prized for scrying.

Divinatory significance

Make sure you take time for personal fun and happiness if you have experienced a difficult or labour-intensive period.

Healing and the environment

Rainbow obsidian draws out pain and absorbs negative energies, both physical and mental. It is an excellent stone for healers to use to cleanse the atmosphere and their own aura after giving healing. It may also bring about an unexpected sudden improvement in a chronic condition.

Uses at work and home

Rainbow obsidian relieves fears over problems at home or work that can leave you paralyzed in inaction. This stone will also turn around misfortune or a run of bad luck and attract happiness and prosperity instead.

Children and animals

Rainbow obsidian is a lovely crystal to give a child as a present because it will continue to be a lucky charm throughout their life. Rainbow obsidian improves the well-being of all aquatic creatures.

Psychic associations

Rainbow obsidian is potent for all transformation rituals and is excellent for scrying and for night magic. It strengthens prophetic abilities and it is a wonderful focus for wish magic and visualizing what it is you need. Hold your obsidian to sunlight so you can see the rainbows; name your fear and plunge the obsidian in a bowl of water, scattering rainbows of hope as you pull it out.

Recharging its energies

Revitalize rainbow obsidian whenever there is a rainbow in the sky, or use a rainbow transfer on a window which catches the light.

Unakite

Properties

Type: A mixture of epidote or pisctacite and feldspar

Colour: Moss or olive green and salmon pink or red

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Planet: Mars/Venus

Element: Fire/water

Candle Colour: Pink

Guardian Angel: Theliel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Apple blossom, marjoram, moss, rose and yarrow

Flowers: Hibiscus, lily of the valley and passionflower

Associated crystals: Moss agate, rhodonite and tree agate

Mythology and history

In magic, unakite has become associated with the harmonious union between Mars and Venus and can be given as a token of love between married couples or long-term partners, as a symbol of their union. Sometimes at handfastings (Wiccan weddings) unakite is bound with yarrow, a herb of marriage.

Healing and the environment

Unakite can be used during labour to promote an easy birth. It triggers the body’s self-healing processes and balances bodily fluids and metabolism. Unakite can also be used to encourage a regular breathing rhythm. It relieves obsessions or compulsions that have their roots in the past, even helping with childhood trauma.

Above all, for both self-healing and when healing others, unakite uncovers the roots of a problem and gently releases any blockages that may be preventing healing energies from flowing throughout the system.

In the environment, unakite is good for protecting endangered plant species.

Uses at home and work

The stone of partnerships, unakite promotes harmonious relationships, both in love and in business. Use it for taking calculated risks and for making wise investments.

Children and animals

Unakite enables children to talk about their problems. Use unakite when breeding animals.

Psychic associations

Unakite is the stone of rebirthing and for communicating with unborn children: a stone for fathers- and mothers-to-be. It is a joy to work with in fidelity rituals and wish magic.

Recharging its energies

Sprinkle unakite with a drop of olive oil and then carefully wash in running water.

Prehnite

Properties

Type: Silicate/zeolite. Transparent; or, more usually, translucent and lustrous with inclusions or ghost crystals within. Broken surfaces shine like mother-of-pearl

Colour: Pale or mint green to yellowy- or browny-green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Pale green

Guardian Angel: Hamaliel

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Bergamot, moss, peppermint, rosemary and thyme

Flowers: Almond blossom, clover and lavender

Associated crystals: Bowenite, peridot and serpentine

See also

Apophyllite

Mythology and history

Named after Major Prehn, who discovered it at the end of the eighteenth century in South Africa, prehnite was previously used as a stone of prophecy and shamanism by indigenous sangomas (medicine men and women). In modern magic, it is known as the prophecy stone.

Divinatory significance

Do not be afraid to acknowledge your negative feelings. You should feel able to express them in a non-aggressive way.

Healing and the environment

Prehnite removes toxins from the system, helps the metabolism and bloodstream to function more efficiently, balances the meridians in the body and calms high blood pressure and hypertension. It is excellent for relieving claustrophobia and agoraphobia and is good for absent healing.

Uses at home and work

Prehnite is probably the best stone for helping you to say no to unreasonable requests at home and work. It is especially good for women who find it difficult to express anger or to make demands of others, especially in a male-dominated environment. Leave one to protect your home when you go on holiday.

Children and animals

Prehnite is useful as it effectively calms hyperactive children or animals.

Psychic associations

Prehnite is used to induce lucid dreaming. Hold the crystal when you wake to help you to recall your dreams. Place one next to tarot cards, a crystal ball or any other divinatory tool to increase your prophetic abilities.

Recharging its energies

Surround it by greenery for twenty-four hours.

Olivine/peridot

Properties

Type: Island silicate.

Transparent: olivine is more translucent

Colour: Olivine is olive; peridot is pale to bottle-green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Olive or dark green

Guardian Angel: Achaiah

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Ivy, lavender, olive, patchouli and pine

Flowers: Hyacinth, lilac and orchid

Associated crystals: Emerald, green topaz and serpentine

Mythology and history

The gem form of olivine is called peridot or chlorite. It is found in meteorites and in deep rock that may be brought to the surface during volcanic activity.

It was regarded as a wondrous stone in many ancient cultures, including that of the Ancient Egyptians, who mistakenly called peridots emeralds. Along with golden topaz, peridot was found on the Serpent Isle, a snake-infested island in the Red Sea. Again like golden topaz, peridot was believed to be visible only after dark. Olivine crystals are said to be the tears of the Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele.

Divinatory significance

One of the most fortunate stones, peridot indicates an in-flow of money, love, luck and peace into your life.

Healing and the environment

A general healer, olivine and peridot will cool fevers and ease liver and gall bladder problems. It effectively relieves insect bites, swellings, asthma and allergic reactions. It also helps to remedy breast, heart or lung problems. Use peridot to flood your mind, body and spirit with a sense of peace and well-being. It will also set up a protective shield around your aura.

Uses at work and home

Olivine, as sand or tiny crystals, will attract money and good fortune into your home. A peridot in your purse or with your mobile will deter pickpockets and muggers. At work, olivine and peridot are helpful for businesses that involve direct selling or money exchange. Add one to a prosperity charm bag.

Children and animals

Olivine and peridot help a child to mend a broken friendship and to become less anxious about peer pressures. They will de-stress a hyperactive pet.

Psychic associations

As well as drawing money and luck, olivine and peridot are good for marriage and fidelity. They reflect negativity back to the sender.

Verdite

Properties

Type: Silicate; found close to gold deposits. Opaque

Colour: Often deep green, other shades of green, rich emerald and golden brown. It may be mottled with white, red, or yellow or lighter green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Earth

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Green or gold

Guardian Angel: Zachariel

Chakra: Heart/root

Herbs, incenses and oils: Orange, avocado, mimosa, patchouli and sunflower

Flowers: Amaranth, hydrangea and schizostylis

Associated crystals: Bloodstone, green jasper and serpentine

Mythology and history

Verdite, which comes only from South Africa and Zimbabwe, is called the green stone of Africa. It is of great antiquity: the oldest form of exposed rock dates back more than three and a half million years. It has been used by indigenous craftsmen for carving animals and sacred ancestral statues throughout the millennia and it is still used in sculpture today. Small pieces can be bought for healing and magical uses.

Divinatory significance

Look to traditional knowledge or wise older family members to guide you at the moment.

Healing and the environment

Verdite acts as a cleanser and oxygenator for the blood. It relieves all genito-urinary problems and is good for sexual dysfunction, especially that caused by anxiety. In its native South Africa it is traditionally used to enhance both fertility and potency.

Uses at home and work

Verdite will soften impatience, sarcasm, abrasiveness and irritability, whether your own or that of a family member, colleague, employer or employee.

Children and animals

Verdite puts children in touch with their family and cultural heritage. Use verdite when breeding pedigree animals.

Psychic associations

Verdite can be used for positive encounters with ghosts, for channelling the wisdom of the ancestors, for visualization work with the archetypal qualities of wild animals, especially those from South Africa, and for past-life work. Make verdite part of a fertility or abundance charm bag.

Recharging its energies

Place verdite among the leaves of any tropical greenery or near to an indoor plant.

Fuchsite

Properties

Type: Hydrous potassium aluminium silicate. Opaque

Colour: Dark emerald green

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Planet: Venus

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Metallic

Guardian Angel: Hadakiel

Chakra: Throat/heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Aloe vera, avocado, magnolia, marjoram and violet

Flowers: Apple blossom, fuchsia and sweet pea

Associated crystals: Green aventurine, iron pyrites and moss agate

Mythology and history

In Brazil, the shimmering fuchsite was considered a gift from the earth spirits, the Virgin Mary or Iemanjá, the Sea Goddess. It is thought to grant blessings and the promise of better fortune.

Divinatory significance

This is a creative period; you can develop new interests or emerging psychic or healing talent.

Healing the environment

Fuchsite aids recovery from illness or exhaustion, restores energy levels and brings continued health; its healing powers will penetrate deep within the body. It also eases problems with the larynx, the throat and the arteries. Perhaps most importantly, it increases the will to get better.

Uses at work and home

Fuchsite will generate a sense of beauty and grace in your home. At work it is a stone both of inspired thinking and also a diplomatic approach to resolve long-standing irritations. In both spheres fuchsite encourages cooperation and teamwork and so can be a stabilizer if the family members rarely meet because of different schedules. It also brings fun back into your life.

Children and animals

Fuchsite helps children appreciate beautiful things and the importance of conservation. It is good for exotic birds, such as parrots.

Psychic associations

Fuchsite is a stone of astral projection and a focus for contact with angelic beings and spirit guides and fairy magic. Use a small piece (wrapped very carefully as it is brittle) in a good luck charm bag.

Recharging its energies

Use starlight, a fibre optic lamp or fairy lights.

Chinese turquoise

Properties

Type: Phosphate of aluminium with copper and traces of iron

Colour: Green, soft turquoise or blue, sometimes with a spider web of brown, grey or black veins or patches

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Planet: Venus

Element: Air

Candle Colour: Turquoise

Guardian Angel: Zuriel

Chakra: Throat/heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Rose, chamomile, rosewood, sandalwood and ylang ylang

Flowers: Blue hyacinth, harebell and narcissus

Associated crystals: Apatite, jade and orbicular jasper

Mythology and history

Chinese turquoise is often greener than that from the Near and Middle East and the Americas, and feels gentler and smoother. Although popular for carvings and jewellery, turquoise was not mined in China itself until the thirteenth century, while neighbouring Tibet had a rich source of turquoise. Both the stone and the powder or ointment made from it were valued for its curative properties.

Divinatory significance

Chinese turquoise is the power stone, but it represents the power of love, signifying that love will win through and your happiness will be well worth waiting for.

Healing and the environment

Chinese turquoise is soothing for eyes, for stomach and intestinal problems, especially those resulting in internal bleeding, and for skin complaints, stings, bites and rashes. It is good for preventing mood swings and repetitive behaviour patterns that are not related to the actual situation.

Uses at work and home

Chinese turquoise is a bridge-builder among step-families, friends and neighbours and work colleagues. It is especially potent where you need to work as part of a team. It is good for all situations where people live together, for example colleges and for house-sharing.

Children and animals

Chinese turquoise is softer than ordinary turquoise, so it is especially protective for babies and young children, whom it will help without overwhelming them with its energies. Chinese turquoise is similarly useful for small or baby animals.

Psychic associations

Chinese turquoise is excellent for creating psychic dreams. It is useful for all forms of love and fidelity magic, especially young love or love that has to rebuild trust.

Recharging its energies

Leave it in moonlight under an early waxing moon phase, from when you first see the moon in the sky (that may be during the daytime) until you go to bed. Then place it under your pillow for the night.

Variscite

Properties

Type: Hydrated aluminium phosphate. Translucent

Colour: Most commonly light green. Also apple to bright green, bluish-green or turquoise or colourless. It usually has patterned light and darker brown veins across the surface

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Planet: Earth

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Bright green

Guardian Angel: Aragael

Chakra: Heart/solar plexus

Herbs, incenses and oils: Almond, bistort, cedarwood, lemon verbena and tea tree

Flowers: Anemone, primrose and sweet tobacco

Associated crystals: Apatite, Chinese turquoise and jade

Mythology and history

Variscite is named after the Latin word for Vogtland in Saxony, where its colour matched the costumes of the traditional spring festivals (these may still be seen today). Because of its resemblance to tracks across the land, it was also a focus in sacred earth-awareness ceremonies among the Native Americans and Australian Aboriginals.

Divinatory significance

Seek new contacts and friends through your existing network. You may enjoy a new group activity or holiday more than you think.

Healing and the environment

Variscite calms and balances both the body and the nervous system and acts as a preventative as well as a healing crystal. It revitalizes the blood, the main arteries and the vessels of the heart. Use it as a focus for the conservation of ancient sites and sacred waters.

Uses at home and work

Variscite will increase your social confidence if you are in a new environment or are naturally shy. It also attracts abundance to the home and will stabilize an uncertain work situation. Variscite is also effective for networking, redeployment or relocation.

Children and animals

Variscite gives children a sense of history and of the sacred in nature. It can settle animals living in a different habitat or climate from that of their own species.

Psychic associations

It is one of the best earth-energy stones for working with sacred earth sites, stone circles, turf labyrinths, barrows and holy wells. Use it for dowsing and for channelling the wisdom of earth guardians, for vision quests, spiritual journeys and for following ley lines.

Recharging its energies

Rest it on a standing stone or in a stone circle.

Watermelon tourmaline

Properties

Type: Complex silicate of boron and aluminium V. Transparent, translucent or opaque. Pleochroic (it can appear transparent when viewed from the side and almost opaque by looking down the long axis from either end)

Colour: Green outer core with inner red or pink. Striated in its natural form

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Planet: Venus/Mars

Element: Water/fire

Candle Colour: Pink

Guardian Angel: Raphael

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Rose, cardamom, geranium, liquorice and vanilla

Flowers: Apple blossom, orange blossom and all tiny roses or rosebuds

Associated crystals: Green calcite, pink calcite and ruby in zoisite

Mythology and history

Watermelon tourmaline is one of the banded and most highly prized tourmaline forms. Tourmaline is named from the Singhalese word turamali (coloured stone) because it is found in every colour of the rainbow and has more colour varieties than any other crystal. Perhaps for this reason, in Arabia it was called the stone of the sun (or light), because white light contains the rainbow colours.

Divinatory significance

What would make you happy? Take time to find out and do something, however small, to give you pleasure every day.

Healing and the environment

The blending of red and pink or green makes it the perfect stone for reconciling conflicts of physical and emotional energies within the body that may be the underlying cause of illness or discomfort.

Uses at home and work

Watermelon tourmaline is a good stone for merging different personalities and factions at work and home. It is also useful for large gatherings, such as Christmas parties, weddings, office parties and conventions. It is a very healing stone when a relationship is going through a difficult period, and will help to deflect quarrels or bitter words.

Children and animals

Watermelon tourmaline will heal both stressed and distressed children and animals. It can be especially useful at a time of domestic upheaval or unhappiness.

Psychic associations

The crystal of healers and apprentice healers, it is wonderful as a wand or as a double-terminated crystal – one end will be positive and energizing, the other receptive and calming. Try holding different crystals until you find your special healer. It will cleanse and energize chakras and auras and can substitute for a quartz crystal pendulum.

Recharging its energies

Revitalize watermelon tourmaline at twilight on three consecutive nights.

Chrysoprase

Properties

Type: Chalcedony (quartz) with nickel. Opaque

Colour: Apple green and lighter greens but always with even-colour quartz

Symbolic associations

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Candle Colour: Mint or apple green

Guardian Angel: Tual

Chakra: Heart

Herbs, incenses and oils: Apple blossom, lemon balm, rose, vervain and vetivert

Flowers: Anemone, evening primrose and daisy

Associated crystals: Green aventurine, green calcite and jade

See also

Lemon chrysoprase

Mythology and history

Associated with the sign of Taurus, in medieval times chrysoprase was engraved with the image of a bull to give strength and protection to the wearer. Chrysoprase is said to have fallen from the apple trees in heaven. The medieval mystic Hildegard von Bingen recommended chrysoprase for turning anger into soft words of forgiveness.

Divinatory significance

A stone of spring, chrysoprase represents a change of heart by others or a new opportunity for you concerning situations that have seemed hopeless or avenues that you thought closed.

Healing and the environment

If you or the people you are working with are new to healing, chrysoprase will make the body, spirit and mind receptive to these previously unknown healing energies. It is good for stomach ulcers and other digestive disorders and skin perforations or infected areas. Chrysoprase will fill the mind and spirit with optimism and give the impetus to get back into the mainstream of life after illness or despair.

Uses at work and home

At any time of the year, open all the windows and doors at home and place a chrysoprase near the front and back or patio doors. This will give your home a psychic spring clean and attract all types of abundance – of health, happiness and enthusiasm as well as materially. At work, chrysoprase is excellent for beginning a new job, venture or project.

Children and animals

It is excellent for helping to mend a heart broken by first love. It also aids children who fear failure and who are stressed by exams, unfamiliar subjects or coursework. Animals welcome chrysoprase during a long winter.

Psychic associations

A money and fertility charm, chrysoprase is an excellent stone for meditation, especially outdoors to connect you with natural energies, nature spirits and magical animals. Keep a piece with tarot cards to help you see the unexpected in a reading.

Recharging its energies

Revitalize chrysoprase in a light rain shower.