Chalcedony Group
I decided to create a chapter specifically for this category of stones since there is such an interesting variety of this type. In fact, some mineral sources even disagree on the definition of chalcedony—sometimes this term is used for only the blue and white forms and excludes agates and jaspers. For our purposes here, we’ll use the most common definition, which does include agates and jaspers. And since these stones are often confused with one another due to similarities in appearance, they deserve some special attention.
Quartz is divided into two main families: crystalline (forming distinct crystals) and cryptocrystalline. The cryptocrystalline (sometimes called microcrystalline) group contains stones with atoms packed tightly; they are fibrous in appearance rather than forming crystals, and they have a mostly opaque or translucent appearance. These stones contain crystals that are so small you need a microscope to see them. Since these stones are translucent and almost never transparent, they are not used as faceted stones. However, these stones have been carved into decorative shapes, cabochons, vases, statues, and jewelry for thousands of years. This is commonly known as the chalcedony group.
Before we begin, I’d like to address what some may consider omissions from this group. Some sources include Aventurine in this group; however, most of my research classifies it as technically a rock, so it’s explored in chapter Four. Sometimes Tiger Eye is also found in this category. However, since Tiger Eye is generally thought to be a pseudomorph mineral (or, more recently, a synchronous mineral growth and not a replacement) I have not included it here. Onyx is part of this category, but since I explored that stone in detail in my previous book, I will not repeat that discussion. And now, on to our main event—the agates and jaspers (and a few other noteworthy stones).
Agate is one of the most abundant stones on earth. Its name derives from the Achates River in Sicily, where it was first discovered thousands of years ago. Often banded, translucent, or nearly opaque, it occurs naturally in a variety of colors and patterns. Some agates have very distinctive designs and are given special names, such as Moss Agate and Blue Lace Agate. The bands of agate often contain dramatic curves and shapes; bands of Onyx have a more parallel design. However, there are some agates that lack the banded pattern. There is rich folklore surrounding the use of agate—placed in the mouth it was said to quench thirst; placed on the forehead it was said to cure fever. Another legend says if someone wears an agate, that person cannot tell a lie. In addition, agate has been carved into a variety of shapes—statues, bowls, etc.—throughout the ages. Agates like “crazy lace” and “eye” agates display gorgeous banding and circle patterns. However, agate is easily dyed and most of the very brightly colored ones being sold are artificially colored. There are some spectacularly colored natural ones, though, in shades of orange, brown, yellow, and even pale pink.
Jasper is a rock that consists of 80% microcrystalline quartz, and tends to be opaque. In addition, sometimes jaspers contain other types of chalcedony. These stones have also been used to create jewelry and other decorative items and have been prized throughout history for their use in magic and healing. Technically, the stone we call jasper is a form of chert (flint is a type of chert and chert contains quartz) and it usually occurs in red (presence of iron causes the reddish color), yellow, brown, and sometimes green—often a blending of colors. While jasper can be striped or banded, mottled or blotched, like agate it’s often characterized by specific patterns—there are “picture” jaspers that resemble landscape scenes, and a variety called “leopard skin” that looks like the spotted coat of a leopard. Jaspers are also sometimes named for the location where they’re found. The name jasper means “spotted or speckled stone.”
How can you tell the difference between agate and jasper? One way is by how much light passes through the stone. A transparent stone is one you can see through; a translucent stone lets some light through; an opaque stone allows no light to pass through. Agate is translucent to semi-transparent; some are banded, some have mossy inclusions or other designs, and some have no markings at all. Jasper is mainly opaque; it contains more impurities than agate. The problem is that it can be tricky to tell if a stone is actually semi-translucent or truly opaque because some stones have areas that span the range between both.
Another area of confusion is determining of what minerals the stone is made. For example, rhyolite, a type of rock, is sometimes sold under the name jasper. In fact, many jaspers can also be categorized as rocks since they can be made of more than one mineral. When shopping for stones, be aware of some of these slight variations in name.
Now, let’s explore some of these beautiful stones!
General Properties
Agate Spells
Tree, Moss, and Dendritic Agates
There is often some confusion surrounding these types of agates, so let’s look more closely at these three stones.
Tree Agate gets its distinct markings from the varying presence of chlorite, manganese, or hornblende. The markings often have the appearance of treelike shapes. When the shapes take on a very distinct tree shape, they have earned the name Dendritic, which comes from the Greek word for tree—dendron. Tree Agate is usually the opaque, white-colored stone with green-colored inclusions; Moss Agate is generally the translucent type displaying lots of green “mossy” inclusions—like looking at algae in a pond; Dendritic can be either type—usually with the most distinct tree or fernlike shapes. Sometimes the names Tree and Moss Agate are used interchangeably. Differentiating between these two can be daunting, but they’re such similar stones that it probably won’t matter if you mix them up.
Here are some subtle distinctions in the use of these agates:
Ritual for Connecting with Nature
As you decorate your altar or other sacred space, think “Nature”—capital N. Use anything that represents nature to you—including live plants, leaves, flowers (fresh or dried) and herbs, pine cones, shells, feathers, moss—create a shrine dedicated to Mother Earth. The goal of this spell is to reconnect with nature on a personal level. Of course, it’s ideal if you can actually get outside for the ritual—use a tree stump or large rock as a simple altar (nature provides all the decoration you need).
Use any combination of Tree, Moss, or Dendritic Agate in tumbled or raw form, or even a piece of jewelry. You will be dedicating this piece (or pieces) to keep the essence of nature with you at all times, reminding you of your connection with the earth and the sacredness of all life on the planet. The result will be a calming, soothing stone that not only brings the solitude of nature to you wherever you are, but will help you keep an Earth-conscious attitude.
Hold your stone(s) or piece of jewelry in your projective hand. First you will project the desired energy into the stone; later you should hold it in your receptive hand to receive the energy and utilize it or, if it’s a necklace, just wear it. (Wear a ring or bracelet on your receptive hand.)
Using your altar, or the natural world around you, visualize connecting with the earth. This visualization will vary with each individual—only you know what works best for you. Some people may be drawn to the sea, others to the mountains. If you can’t be in your favorite place, visualize it. Or simply focus on the images on your altar or the nature around you. If you only have access to a public park, focus on the trees—or even a single leaf or acorn. If you can’t immerse yourself in your desired place, create it using a combination of visualization and props—again, use items on your altar, even photos. Play recordings of nature sounds or use a fountain.
Once you have visualized your ideal place (or state of mind) in nature, imagine what you see, feel, and hear being preserved inside the stone. Gaze upon the stone and see nature unfolding within it. Know that no matter where you are, you can feel this connection any time you hold or wear the stone. It will remind you of Mother Earth and the need to care for her; it will also help you seek the peaceful state of mind you establish now.
Here’s a chant that can help you complete the ritual:
Sacred earth and sacred stone,
Mother Nature, this is home.
My dedication strong and true,
we are all a part of you.
If you created an altar you can leave in place for awhile, let your stone rest there for a few days.
Blue Lace Agate Affirmation
Blue Lace Agate is a popular stone for its beautiful bands of pale blue and white. It’s especially good for the throat chakra (can also be used with heart, third eye, and crown). It’s best known for its use in aiding spiritual pursuits and self-exploration. For this spell, use the stone as a symbol on your spiritual journey to learn to live in the moment and release any pain and worry from the past. Each day is a new beginning; each night, embrace your sleep as a reset button as you prepare for a new day in the morning.
Place a piece of Blue Lace Agate in a location where you will see it every day, ideally in the morning. One really good location is your bedroom nightstand—you will see it when you wake up and just before you go to sleep. When you see the stone, use the following affirmations (or write your own) to give yourself a restart every day. You may hold the stone while you chant, if you wish.
Morning Affirmation:
Day is new.
From rest I awaken feeling blessed.
Day is new.
Free from the past, I am refreshed.
Day is new.
Bedtime Affirmation:
Day is done.
I prepare to rest, feeling blessed.
Day is done.
Today becomes the past; it doesn’t last.
Day is done.
Turritella Agate Spell to Release Worry
Turritella Agate occurs in beautiful shades of brown containing swirling, circular patterns that, if you look closely, are actually fossilized snail shells.
This stone has a very interesting origin. Fifty million years ago, sediment formed from runoff of the Rocky Mountains settled in bodies of water. These particular freshwater snails were so abundant that when they died and were washed down into these lakes, entire layers of sediment became comprised almost entirely of their shells. This sediment eventually became fossilized, resulting in this lovely form of chalcedony.
This stone’s name comes from an error made when it was discovered. The snail fossils were incorrectly identified as being in the genus Turritella. Even though the error was later discovered, the name stuck. The fossils are actually Elimia tenera.
Turritella Agate fosters communication with the world of plants and minerals; it aids transitions, insight, and positive thinking. These qualities make this stone perfect for seeing the big picture and releasing worry.
For this spell the stone can be uncut or set into a piece of jewelry. Begin by contemplating what this stone actually is—a fifty-million-year-old rock that contains the shells of living creatures. Amazing. This contemplation can help you gain perspective. Are you overwhelmed by problems and worries? Consider the great expanse of time and how very small we are, how short our lives. Don’t spend another minute worrying. Hold the stone in your receptive hand as you chant, then either carry it with you or wear it.
Upon me worry has no hold; I am here, let time unfold.
Never waste a single minute; don’t forget that I am in it
for as long as time allows—I repeat these earnest vows.
Wasted time can’t be recovered; I am willing to discover
all I know that waits for me—for good of all so shall it be.
Montana Agate Journey Meditation
Montana Agate is transparent to translucent with inclusions that create the look of a landscape. Sometimes called Montana “Moss” Agate due to the shape of the inclusions—they often resemble dendritic or mosslike shapes. The color ranges from creamy-yellow to brown and black with shades of red and orange. This stone is found mainly in the Yellowstone River area.
Like many other agates it fosters a connection to the earth, and it facilitates grounding while stimulating the crown chakra. Montana Agate is especially lovely when held up to a light source. Gaze into your stone and imagine yourself exploring the landscape—this represents a journey. If you don’t have Montana Agate, this meditation can also be used with Picture Jasper.
What do you see in the stone? A mountain, or range of mountains? A flat prairie or trees—perhaps both? Or maybe you see layers that represent different planes of existence or worlds. You can imagine that our physical world is the center, the lower world is your subconscious mind or your personal soul, and the upper world is the spiritual plane.
Turn the stone and examine it from various angles—this will change your perspective. When you settle on the view you prefer, visualize yourself entering the stone. If it helps, listen to music or nature sounds during your journey—drumming and singing crystal bowls can also be helpful.
Once you’re inside the journey world, let yourself explore. Walk the land and pay attention to what you see. Engage your other senses as well. Spend as much time here as you wish, then record your experiences in a journal. Visit often. Make this a regular place for spiritual journeys. Perhaps you seek a spirit guide or totem animal—see if you can find them here.
Crazy Lace Affirmation for Harmony
Many of the brightly colored agates on the market have been artificially dyed, but not Crazy Lace. It’s one of the few agates that occur with naturally vivid colors—usually shades of pink, red, white, and gray. The patterns often contain dramatic wavy lines and circles, earning the name “crazy lace.” This is one of the loveliest agates.
Crazy Lace Agate promotes happiness, stability, harmony, and balance. Find a piece you can carry with you (or wear) to keep a positive attitude. When you look at the stone, smile. Imagine those swirling colors surrounding you, lifting your mood.
Chant:
Buoyant, bright, and light of heart,
every day a brand new start.
Looking deeply I have found
harmony is all around.
Jasper Spells
Picture Jasper Spell to Uncover Fears
Picture Jasper occurs in shades of brown, often with ivory, and sometimes black or blue. Similar to Montana Agate, the patterns on the stone often give the impression of a landscape scene. This stone promotes harmony, stimulates creativity, and can help bring suppressed thoughts or fears to the surface. Due to its appearance, it has been called a stone of “global awareness”—images that resemble landscapes can inspire a collective effort to be mindful of the environment. You can also use the Montana Agate Journey Meditation with this stone.
Place the stone in a small container and cover it with sand. Now think: “What’s at the root of my worry or fear? If only I could find that issue and address it.”
Speak these words:
Root of worry, source of fear,
Tilt the container and dump off some of the sand. Then say:
I will see you, I will clear
Remove a little more sand and say:
away what hides you; I will reveal.
Uncover the stone completely, then say:
When I find you, I will heal.
Red Jasper Talisman for Progress
Red Jasper is the most common type of jasper; it’s good for meditation and dream recall, and also aids progress toward goals, helps prevents setbacks, and promotes courage. It can help one find insight into situations of unfair treatment as well. For this spell, you will create a bundle to carry with you—a talisman to clear the path to your goal.
Wrap the stone in white or red fabric or use a drawstring bag. To encourage success, add nine clover leaves and/or a pinch of ginger root along with the stone. Visualize your goal as you assemble the talisman.
Leopard Jasper Endurance Spell
This stone is also sometimes called Leopard Skin Jasper. It contains markings that appear similar to the coat of a leopard—shades of brown, black, and even red, usually with many spots. Like all forms of jasper, this is a nurturing stone—a stone of harmony. It can also improve one’s endurance. It can be used to bring a sense of calm while improving imagination and creativity.
I like to use jasper when working on creative projects—especially anything that requires stamina. If you have a long-term project you need to tackle, this is the stone for you. This can be anything from remodeling a room (or an entire house) to landscaping, art, or even self-improvement. When you know you’re in it for the long haul, let Leopard Jasper be your cheerleader. Wear the stone or carry it. Here’s a chant you can use:
The road is long but the load is light;
I endure—goal in sight.
The road is long but worth the walk;
I endure—beat the clock.
The road is long but I take the lead;
I endure—I will succeed.
Other Types of Chalcedony
Carnelian Energy Spell
Carnelian is a reddish-orange variety of chalcedony and is often artificially colored (especially for use in jewelry). The reddish-orange/brown color comes from the presence of hematite (iron) and is translucent but the degree of translucency can vary throughout the stone, giving it lighter and darker patches of color. Banding sometimes occurs as well, which can then be classified as Carnelian Agate.
Carnelian enhances precision and analytical processes and increases one’s talents and perceptions. It can help dispel sorrow and apathy, protects against fear and envy, enhances awareness of one’s emotions, and stimulates compassion. Carnelian can stabilize the energy of one’s home by encouraging love and understanding among family members. It stimulates physical energy, creativity (especially in the performing arts), and passion. You can also use it to clear negative energy from other stones.
The origin of the name is believed to be from the Latin cornum—the cornel cherry—because the stone was thought to resemble this fruit. Other sources trace the word to a mispronunciation of “cornelian” from the Latin carno or carnis, referring to the flesh (like the word carnivorous).
Carnelian is sometimes confused with Sard, a translucent brownish-red shade of chalcedony that has more of a brown hue than Carnelian. Sardonyx is a variety of onyx that has a combination of reddish-brown bands (a blend of sard and onyx). The word sard most likely has origins in the Persian word that describes the reddish color—sered.
First, place the stone in bright sunlight for at least one hour. Chant three times:
Sun to stone, hold your own,
as you visualize the stone being a receptacle for sunlight.
Then hold the stone in your receptive hand and visualize all the absorbed sunlight flowing from the stone into your body. Feel the energy and power. See yourself glowing. Chant lucida (Latin for “bright”) as many times as you need—harness the energy of the sun. Repeat as desired.
Bloodstone Talisman for Courage
Bloodstone is also called Heliotrope—it’s green or greenish-gray chalcedony with red hematite (iron oxide) spots that resemble blood, hence the name Bloodstone. The name Heliotrope comes from the Greek helios, meaning sun, which reveals how this stone, along with many other forms of jasper, has long been associated with the sun and solar deities. It can sometimes be confused with Plasma, which is an opaque form of green chalcedony with lighter (more yellowish than red) spots than Bloodstone.
Due to its appearance, this stone has long been associated with healing blood diseases and curing other ailments. Bloodstone has a long history in folklore, but one of the most popular stories comes from biblical times, when it is said that drops of Jesus’s blood fell upon the rocks beneath the cross and turned to stone. It has been reputed to heal wounds and stop bleeding—the stone was actually ground into powder, mixed with egg and honey, and used as a coagulant, to draw out venom and cure tumors. Even gazing upon the stone was said to have healing benefits.
It’s referred to as a “stone of courage” and is useful for balancing, grounding, and centering to assist one in overcoming obstacles and personal distress; it’s also calming—excellent qualities for a talisman.
You can wear a piece of Bloodstone jewelry or simply carry the stone with you. Charge or dedicate the stone inside a ring of red candles. While the candles are burning, visualize your need and speak your desire out loud or use this chant:
Stone of courage, be my shield,
calm and strong, you never yield.
Chrysoprase: Adaptability Affirmation
Our discussion of chalcedony wouldn’t be complete without including Chrysoprase—the most highly prized stone of the chalcedony group. It’s translucent to nearly opaque, displays a beautiful apple-green color, and can even have a mint-green hue. It’s somewhat rare. Chrysoprase is sometimes confused with Jadeite. Chryso is Greek for “golden” and prase is from the Greek prasions for the leek plant (describing the green color). The presence of nickel is responsible for this lovely shade. Sometimes you will encounter stones simply called Prase. This is translucent chalcedony is a darker shade of green Chrysoprase (which is sometimes used to describe green quartz in general). It can be artificially dyed. Even if the color is natural, however, it can still fade in sunlight, so limit its exposure to any type of bright light. There’s another, rarer form, called Chrome Chalcedony, which is colored by the presence of chromium. This variety is darker than Chrysoprase.
Chrysoprase is an excellent balancing stone. It is especially good for focusing on adaptability and acceptance. It can energize the heart chakra and, in general, provides a compassionate, loving energy.
To become more flexible and accepting of other perspectives and situations, charge a piece of Chrysoprase in full moonlight. Hold the stone in your receptive hand while seeing yourself as more open and tolerant in difficult situations.
Chant:
In the wind, I gently bend,
I move with ease, like the trees.