Stone Glossary

Agate: The agate is said to improve the natural vitality and energy and to increase the confidence of the user. Its is believed to be of particular benefit to athletes or to those taking examinations - or anyone else who has to call upon instant burst of energy from gem stone healing - whether mental or physical.

Amethyst: It is not for nothing that the amethyst gem stone is known as the spiritual stone. It has the reputation of helping those who wish to develop psychically and of giving protection to those who feel that they may be under some sort of psychic attack. It is said that sleeping with a piece of amethyst beneath one's pillow promotes intuitive dreams and inspired thought. Many healers also consider amethyst jewelry useful in the relief of insomnia and to bring serenity in times of grief.

Chrysoprase: Perhaps the ideal stone for those about to take tests and examinations, the chrysoprase is said to improve the memory and reduce nervousness and impatience. It is also reputed to increase the presence of mind of the wearer and make him more able to act with sound judgement in an emergency.

Citrine: It is claimed that the citrine is able to help those who feel that they have misplaced their path in life and to give them a new sense of direction. It is also said to be of benefit to those suffering from poor circulation and to help to control the emotions.

Garnet: The garnet is most often used as a general tonic for the whole system - physical, mental and emotional. It is particularly recommended for those who need to improve their self-respect and self-confidence and to increase their courage.

Hematite: The hematite is another stone which is said to increase courage and it is also claimed that it strengthens the heart and is good for reducing a rapid pulse.

Jade: Jade is said to be of help in relieving kidney complaints. Yellow jade is believed to aid a poor digestion. When worn as a piece of jewelry, jade is thought to provide protection from one's enemies. In ancient China and ancient Egypt it was widely used as a talisman to attract good fortune, friendship and loyalty.

Jasper: Green jasper is reputed to be able to improve the sense of smell and also to overcome depression, bringing stillness to a troubled mind. Red jasper is known to contain iron oxide which is used medically to control excessive bleeding and for this reason, it is claimed, it can be useful in overcoming disorders of the blood and even in reducing a tendency to hemorrhage.

Lapis Lazuli: The lapis lazuli was called by the ancient Egyptians 'The Stone of Heaven' and it is thought by many to be the stone upon which were carved the laws given to Moses. It is said that it has the power to prevent fits and epilepsy and to improve the eyesight.

Malachite: The malachite contains copper and is claimed to be helpful in the treatment of rheumatism and also in regularizing menstruation. Moonstone The moonstone is claimed to promote long life and happiness and is said to attract friendship and loyalty towards the wearer.

Onyx: The onyx is reputed to improve concentration and devotion. Perhaps it is for this reason that it is frequently to be found in rosaries.

Opal: To some the opal has the reputation of being an unlucky stone. This could actually be because it is supposed to induce daydreaming in the wearer - and daydreaming of course can be detrimental if it causes the loss of a sense of reality. Daydreaming, however, can also equal inspiration - and the dreamer may spend his 'lost time' formulating plans and ideas which will have rewarding results, or visualizing a piece of creative work which will later bring beauty to others as well as himself.

Pearl: The pearl is said to be helpful in clearing all forms of catarrh, bronchitis and chest and lung infections. It is still traditionally worn by divers to protect them from the evils of the sea - especially sharks.

Quartz: The quartz attracts the powers of light and energy and is said to be an excellent general healer. Its greatest attribute is known to be its use as an aid to opening the psychic centers, enabling one to meditate at a deeper level and to free one's mind from the mundane and from trivia. It releases the higher consciousness of the individual and assists in the development of many mystical and spiritual gifts.

Rose Quartz: This lovely stone is claimed to be one of the best stones to use in the treatment of migraine and headaches of all types. It is also said to stimulate the imagination and the intellect.

Turquoise: Some American Indians still consider the turquoise to be a sacred stone. They believe that it absorbs harmful vibrations and that it is a protective stone. A turquoise - which should always have been given and never bought for oneself - was at one time frequently given to those who were about to undergo surgery as a form of protection during the operation.