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Agate
Agate (see Chalcedony) is made from quartz that builds in layers with other members of the quartz family such as Jasper. Agate comes in a variety of colours including red, green and blue. Well-known types of Agate are Blue Lace Agate, Moss Agate and Tree Agate. Older pieces of Agate are collectable and can be valuable depending on their quality and type. Crystal healers believe that Agate is a powerful healing stone, and can assist in improving communication and protect the individual by forming a shield around the body. Agate can be very beautiful and demonstrates the wonderful patterns found in nature. Birthstone: Gemini, Aquarius.
Amber
This is a fossil made from resin thought to have derived from Pine or Spruce type trees, most of which are now extinct. Genuine Amber is millions of years old and can be found worldwide (including the Isle of Wight and parts of the East Coast!). Baltic Amber is fine quality and is still being traded today in large quantities. Amber comes in a variety of colours, but most commonly orange, brown, red and yellow. Green and blue amber are sought after, as they are more rare – the colour is said to possibly stem from certain minerals and naturally occurring deposits, even volcanic dust is thought to have played a part in the process. The most valuable amber is the oldest and with insects and other fossilized fragments visible. Baltic amber in particular has the inclusion of little flies – these were thought to have lived on decaying leaves, fruits and suchlike from the ancient forests. Larger insects and creatures are not often discovered in amber – this suggests that these species could escape the sticky substance. A wasp and large winged insects have been found in amber, as have hairs from small animals. Amber is one of the most attractive fossils on earth, and it is a reminder of how ancient our world is. Birthstone - Aquarius, Taurus and Leo
Amethyst
This is a type of quartz that is commonly found worldwide. Derives from Greek language meaning ‘not to intoxicate’, and was apparently used to make drinking vessels in the belief it would protect the reveller against drunkenness. Evidence from excavations suggests ancient civilizations such as Anglo-Saxons adopted amethyst for the production of small items, jewellery, and other adornments. The most valuable Amethysts are those with a deep, rich, purple colour and also the older cut Amethysts. Amethyst is said to be a stone of ‘well being, and happiness.’ People who believe in and practice spiritual therapy claim that Amethyst is one of the most effective crystals for healing, extracting negative energies and helping with change in general. Apparently linked to the ‘Crown Chakra’ (the head) Amethyst has been associated with the healing of toothache, headaches and tension related illnesses. Also Amethyst is said to have healing properties for problems associated with the stomach and main intestine. Whichever way you look at Amethysts, be it in a healing light or glamorous and fashionable way, its natural beauty is quite astounding – it’s no wonder people over centuries have thought it to be magical. Birthstone Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius and Capricorn
Angelite
A type of Gypsum (usually a white mineral), sometimes confused with Anhydrite, although it is thought that Angelite is a type of Anhydrite that is specific to Peru. Unlike Anhydrite that is white, Angelite has a light blue grey tone. Some believe that this stone has a link to the heavens, hence its name. It has also been suggested that Angelite is connected to higher vibrations, which are sent to the ‘Soul-Star Chakra’ (above your head) thus paving the way for greater spiritual understanding and better communication. There’s no doubt that this stone is appealing, it has a soft gentle colour that sets it apart from other semi precious stones. Birthstone: Pisces.
Aventurine
This is from the quartz family and the name derives from the Italian ‘per aventura’ when translated means ‘by chance’ which relates to the discovery of the stone. Aventurine is usually green in colour with metallic particles; this gives a sparkling, shimmering appearance or ‘aventurescence’. Red Aventurine is the most rare and sought after. This beautiful semi precious stone is thought to improve decision-making and boost self-confidence, as well as aid relaxation and reduce anxiety. Alternative medicine practitioners believe in its powers to create balance, stability and promote calmness. Feng Shui practice uses it for providing a balanced atmosphere when there is opposed energies between people living in the same house. Aventurine relates to the ‘heart chakra’ and is supposed to ground the individual who wears it. Birthstone: Aries and Libra.
Amazonite
This is a semi-opaque stone that is thought to have been first discovered in the Amazon River, or named after an important Amazonian female tribe, which existed during the Bronze Age, hence its name. Excavations revealed that Amazonite was treasured by the Egyptians and was named as ‘the stone of courage’. Despite its name, Amazonite has not yet been discovered near the world famous river, although it has been found in Brazil in other areas. Used by believers in alternative methods of healing as a stone to encourage positive thinking, protects against free radicals as it is supposed to act as a filter agent, and aids in boosting self-esteem. This stone relates to the heart and throat chakras and is said to ease anxiety and eliminate doubt. Birthstone: Virgo.
Bloodstone
This stone is a dark green colour with blood red spots or blotches, hence the name, and belongs to the chalcedony family. Iron minerals cause the dark red and rich brown colouring within the green mass; this is otherwise known as Red Jasper. Early history explains that bloodstone was revered as a powerful magical stone because the red spots were thought to be the blood of Jesus Christ, and it was used in ancient times as part of healing practices. Visually striking, bloodstone is one of the most beautiful and intriguing semi precious stones. Known in some circles as ‘the stone of courage’, bloodstone is said to aid clarity and assertiveness, it is also associated with the ‘Heart Chakra’, and is claimed to assist with calmness and encourage passivity. Birthstone: Pisces.
Carnelian
A member of the chalcedony family, carnelian has a rich and interesting history. One of the best documented discoveries of carnelian used in ancient times was during an important excavation - the tomb of Ur dating from the 3rd millennium B.C. in the Middle East, contained the body of the Sumerian Queen Puabi, whose robe was adorned with carnelian. This mysterious stone was found in Ancient Egyptian tombs in plentiful amounts in the belief that amulets (good luck charms) made from carnelian would aid in the safe journey through to the afterlife. Also popular amongst the ancient Greeks and Romans – they called the stone ‘Sardius’, and created jewellery such as cameos. Today, Carnelian can be found in some of the most beautiful jewellery designs, and even good quality pieces can be purchased at a reasonable price. For those interested in alternative methods of healing, Carnelian is said to protect the individual, improve concentration, and is good for grounding. Relates to the ‘Naval Chakra’. Birthstone: Taurus, Cancer, Leo and Virgo
Chalcedony
Chalcedony is the name to describe the family of coloured quartz, and includes agate, carnelian, cat’s eye, jasper, onyx, and sard amongst others. Chalcedony boasts a rich and interesting history. Named after the ancient city and once thriving port Chalcedon (now Kadikoy, a suburb of Istanbul, Turkey), Chalcedony was shipped and traded widely all over the world. This semi precious stone come in a variety of colours - they usually have a waxy lustre, and can be opaque. Different types of Chalcedony and other types of agate were particularly popular during the Middle Ages being used in various forms of art, architecture, and design, and incorporated into the interior decoration of churches, adorned furniture, and was a good material for sculpture. Today, Chalcedony with its fabulous patterns and colours is mostly used for jewellery. Because of its diversity and types, Chalcedony covers a wide range of Birthstones.