CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 20) The main gemstones for the sign of Capricorn are Onyx, Malachite, Tourmaline, Agate. Other important stones for Capricorn are Black pearl, Moss agate, Rock crystal, Diamond, Jasper Obsidian, Smoky quartz, Sapphire and Citrine. Star Sign: Onyx has a positive influence on Capricorn. Healing Properties: Onyx works on the psyche, deflecting negative energy, increasing the wearer’s stamina, and giving him/her inner harmony. Onyx must be laid on the body or worn over a long period because its powers develops very slowly. Magical Properties: Onyx It is used as a magic stone all over the world. Its power is further increased by magic inscriptions, as found in the graves of American Indians and ancient Greeks and Romans. Chakra Classification: Onyx influences all the chakras. If possible, combine it with other stones whose power it increases. Application and Care: Onyx needs time to develop its full power. It should be discharged once a week under running water and, if used for a long period, it should be placed in the earth overnight once a month. ___________________________________________________________ AQUARIUS (January 21 – February 19) The main gemstones for the sign of Aquarius are Turquoise, Aquamarine, Labradorite, Amazonite, Falcon’s eye, Topaz, Fluorite and Malachite. Other important stones for Aquarius are Jade, Chalcedony Diamond, Moonstone, Opal, Onyx and Tourmaline. Star Sign: Turquoise is linked to Aquarius. Healing Properties: Turquoise is an effective treatment for a wide range of disorders: it helps in the treatment of throat and lung infections, and it alleviates hyperpepsia and general stomachaches as well as rheumatism and gout. It cures infections, speeds recovery after illness, alleviates pain and reduces inflammation. In addition, it has antispasmodic and detoxifying properties. Psychologically, it lifts depression, give self-confidence and promotes endurance. Magical Properties: Turquoise symbolizes beauty. In the Middle Ages it was believed that it made women virtuous and loyal. Chakra Classification: Turquoise is particularly effective on the throat chakra. Application and Care: Discharge once a month in a bowl of dry tumbled hematite stones and recharge overnight among rock crystals (not in sunlight). ___________________________________________________________ PISCES (February 20 – March 20) The main gemstones for the sign of Pisces are Amethyst, Opal, Blue Sapphire, fluorite and Sugilite. Other important stones for Pisces are Garnet, Agate, Diamond, Jade, Carnelian, Rose quartz and Citrine Star Sign: Amethyst, the stone of Pisces, brings clarity to the conscious and unconscious mind. Healing Properties: Amethyst, when worn, the amethyst will alleviate migraines. Nervous headaches soon subside when a cross-section or geode of an amethyst is placed in the room. Amethyst also improves concentration. Magical Properties: Amethyst is said to attract justice and protect against burglars and thieves. It also wards off danger and violent death. Chakra Classification: Placed on the crown or top of the head during meditation, Amethyst increases concentration and confidence in life. People who regularly wear an amethyst necklace are said to fascinate others with their personality and charisma. Application and Care: To cleanse it, wash it once a month under warm running water and leave overnight among dry hematite stones. Do not expose to the sun. ___________________________________________________________ ARIES (March 21 – April 20) The main gemstones for the sign of Aries are Ruby, Garnet, Carnelian and Jasper and Kyanite. Other important stones for Aries are Diamond, Hematite and Amethyst. Star Sign: Ruby is linked to Aries. Healing Properties: Ruby promotes sexual energy when it is moved to and from over the genital area. It strengthens the body’s immune system against infectious diseases, fortifies the heart and circulation, and combats low blood pressure. Ruby helps cure eye infections even when worn as jewelry. Psychologically, ruby is the good-luck stone of love, encouraging sensitivity in a relationship. Magical Properties. Red Ruby symbolizes love and passion. The stone is associated with vitality and strong feelings. Chakra Classification: It works best on the root and heart chakras. Application and Care: Ruby should be discharged twice every month under running water and recharged in sunlight for two hours. ___________________________________________________________ TAURUS (April 21 – May 20) The main gemstones for the sign of Taurus are Rhodochrosite, Rose quartz, Agate, Chrysocolla, Aventurine and Zircon. Other important stones for Taurus are Diamond, Malachite, Emerald, Obsidian and Citrine. Star Sign: Rhodochrosite is linked to Taurus. Healing Properties: Rhodochrosite stabilizes the blood pressure and circulation and is used in the treatment of hardening and narrowing arteries. That is why it is a good remedy against chronic migraines, but the treatment must be over a long period. In cases of acute attacks, a stone is placed on the site of the pain at the back of the head and left until the pain has abated. Psychologically Rhodochrosite helps the wearer to achieve self-knowledge and protects him against slander. It is also useful in reducing stress. Magical Properties. Rhodochrosite symbolizes openness. It awakens all-embracing love that is not limited to one person. Chakra Classification: Rhodochrosite works most strongly on the heart and navel chakras. Application and Care: After each healing session, the stone must be briefly discharged under running water. Recharge the stone among rock crystals rather than in the sun. If you notice that the stone is becoming cloudy or discolored, wear it on your body until it returns to its normal color. ___________________________________________________________ GEMINI (May 21 – June 21) The main gemstones for the sign of Gemini are Amber, Citrine, Carnelian, Yellow sapphire, Celestite and Apophylite. Other important stones for Gemini are Aquamarine, Rock Crystal, Chalcedony, Moss Agate, Tiger’s Eye and Turquoise. Star Sign: Amber It is the stone of Geminis, Leos and Virgos. Healing Properties: For 7,000 years, Amber has been used to stimulate the metabolism and treat skin ailments caused by a metabolic imbalance. Because of its warmth, it is also used in the treatment of asthma. Allergic respiratory problems (such as allergy to cat fur) are greatly eased by wearing an amber necklace. Amber is also good for treating rheumatism and strengthening the heart muscles. It even helps with epilepsy. Ground amber is used in the treatment of infections and boils. It enhances the powers of self-healing and promotes decisiveness. Magical Properties: Gold-colored Amber symbolizes success. Chakra Classification: Amber is particularly effective on the navel chakra. Application and Care: Amber should be cleansed under lukewarm running water, when you notice that it only warms slowly when you wear it or hold it. Negative energy can make amber cloudy. Never leave amber in the sun because this may make it brittle. ___________________________________________________________ CANCER (June 22 – July 22) The main gemstones for the sign of Cancer are Emerald, Moonstone, Aventurine, Chalcedony, Jade, Opal, Pearl, Olivine, Chrysoprase and Chrysocolla. Other important stones for Cancer are Carnelian, Rhodochrosite and Sodalite. Star Sign: The emerald is assigned to Cancer. Healing Properties: Pliny the Elder wrote: “When the eyes are weakened, they are strengthened again by observing the emerald; the stone’s mild green expels the weariness.” Today, fragments of emerald are still put in the corner of the eye to stabilize the vision. An emerald can also be effective against headaches. It promotes mental growth, farsightedness and perceptiveness. With it, misfortunes can be better managed. Magical Properties: The green emerald symbolizes hope and development. It stands for maturity and was a stone of divine intuition for the Greeks. Chakra Classification: The energy of the emerald flows best over the heart chakra. Application and Care: After each application, the stone should be regularly cleansed under running water. Once a month, it should be recharged in the sun. it develops its strength particularly in association with rock crystal and ruby. ___________________________________________________________ LEO (July 23 – August 23) The main gemstones for the sign of Leo are Rock Crystal, Larimar, Diamond, Chrysoberyl and, Topaz. Other important stones for Leo are Onyx, Yellow-gold citrine, Garnet, Peridot, Selenite, Tiger’s eye and Tourmaline. Star Sign: Rock Crystal is associated with Leo, Gemini and Capricorn. Healing Properties: Rock Crystal applied to the body, can alleviate pain and reduce fever. It has an invigorating effect, especially on weakened intervertebral disks. It helps treat stomach, bowel, and heart problems. Its positive energy removes mental blocks and promotes a sense of justice. Crystal spheres held in the hand have a calming effect. Magical Properties: Buddhists use this stone to achieve enlightenment. From time immemorial, the crystal ball used by clairvoyants has been made of rock crystal. Chakra Classification: Rock Crystal has an enlightening effect on all chakras. It is a particularly good combination stone because it opens up all chakras for relaxation. In addition, it reduces the strength of stones that are too powerful during meditation. Application and Care: As a geode in the room, Rock Crystal reinforces the effect of other stones. The larger the stone, the more power it develops. Always store rock crystal necklaces overnight in a bowl of dry tumbled hematite stones. Rock Crystal should be cleansed once or twice a month under running water and recharged in the sun. ___________________________________________________________ VIRGO (August 24 – September 23) The main gemstones for the sign of Virgo are Tiger’s eye, Gold topaz, Jasper, Citrine, Carnelian and Ametrine. Other important stones for Virgo are Azurite, Hematite, Jade, Lapis Luzuli, Opal, Ruby and Sodalite. Star Sign: Tiger’s Eye is associated with Virgo. Healing Properties: Tiger’s Eye is a particularly effective healing stone for bronchial problems when applied to the navel chakra. For acute bronchitis, it is left overnight secured in place with tape. Asthmatics should always carry a tiger’s eye. It is also helpful in the case of headaches and migraines. Psychologically, tiger’s eye is effective in lifting depression and promoting concentration. Magical Properties: The silky-shimmering, golden sparkling Tiger’s Eye is a member of the quartz family. Its cat’s eye effect is caused by hornblende fibers that all crystallize in the same direction. It symbolizes unity and leads to greater self-integration and autonomy. Chakra Classification: The Tiger’s Eye is very effective on the navel chakra and solar plexus. Application and Care: Tiger’s Eye jewelry should only be worn for a few days because it stems the flow of energy. After being used for healing purposes, it should be discharged under running water and then recharged in sunlight for a few hours. ___________________________________________________________ LIBRA (September 24 – October 23) The main gemstones for the sign of Libra are Smoky quartz, Jade, Aquamarine, Sugilite, Star Sapphire, Chrysocolla and Tourmaline. Other important stones for Libra are Malachite, Turquoise, Diamond, Carnelian, Kunzite and Obsidian. Star Sign: Smoky Quartz is linked to Libra. Healing Properties: It is a stone that strengthens the supporting and connective tissue as well as the muscles. It stabilizes the joints and stimulates fertility by activating the production of the sexual glands. If a couple wishes to have children, both partners should drink smoky quartz water every morning over a long period. Magical Properties: Smoky Quartz stands for facing life, giving strength and motivation to meet new challenges. Chakra Classification: Smoky Quartz works best on the sacral chakra. Application and Care: Smoky Quartz should be discharged once a month under warm running water and charged overnight among rock crystals. ___________________________________________________________ SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22) The main gemstones for the sign of Scorpio are Hematite, Coral, Gluorite, Obsidian, Sard, Spinel, Tourmaline, and Garnet. Other important stones for Scorpio are Agate, Chalcedony, Jade and Malachite. Star Sign: The stone is assigned to Scorpio whom it not only protects but also warns of danger by changing temperature. Healing Properties: As well as staunching blood, Hematite promotes the formation of blood cells. It is used to stabilize the circulation of blood and combats venous hyperemia and embolism. Its regenerative power is beneficial for eye problems (place a polished stone on the eyelid) promotes healthy sleep when placed under the pillow with rose quartz. Caution is required since hematite can lead to inflammations! Psychologically, it encourages spontaneity and zest for life. Magical Properties: Hematite symbolizes courage and was known as “blood stone” in the Middle Ages, staunching blood and promoting the formation of new blood cells. Chajra Classification: Particularly effective on the root chakra. Application and Care: Never wear Hematite near inflammations of any kind; it can exacerbate them. Never discharge in water. Placed among tumbled rock crystals, hematite releases negative energy and at the same time becomes recharged with positive energy. ___________________________________________________________ SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 21) The main gemstones for the sign of Sagittarius are Lapis Lazuli, Obsidian, Adventurine, Herkimer diamond, Sodalite, Dumortierite, Apatite, Chalcedony, Spinel and Zircon. Other important stones for Sagittarius are Topaz, Moonstone, Amethyst, Opal, Rose quartz and Tourmaline Star Sign: Lapis Lazuli gives Sagittarius the power of friendship and helps him make decisions. Healing Properties: Lapis Lazuli promotes clear understanding and intuition; it also helps the balanced functioning of the thyroid gland while strengthening the neck and vocal cords. In addition it has hypotensive properties (never use lapis lazuli to treat people with low blood pressure). It is effective against depression, promotes bonding and strengthens idealism. Magical Properties: Blue Lapis Lazuli symbolizes inspiration and wisdom. Rulers wore it for its protective properties and as an ornament. Chakra Classification: This stone works well on the forehead and throat chakras. Application and Care: Once a month, lapis lazuli should be put in a bowl with tumbled hematite stones and then recharged in a mass of rock crystals. ___________________________________________________________ COLORS: THEIR MEANING AND THERAPEUTIC USE Red: Activity, energy, stamina, joy in living, sexuality and love. Supports circulatory and metabolic systems. Strengthens will power and keeps one active. Orange: Vitality, ambition, fertility, erotic feelings adds balance and calmness; promotes the flow of energy. Yellow: Optimism, cheerfulness, success, generosity, satisfaction, élan vital. Stimulates all organs, increase energy levels, strengthens the immune system; removes inhibitions and fear of relationships. Green: Warmheartedness, friendship, openness, freedom, harmony, peace, empathy, self-renewal. Harmonizes, detoxifies and regenerates; enhances emotion, leads one to inner peace and strengthens the will to live. Blue: Faithfulness, loyalty, openness, freedom (light blue); responsibility and respect for others (dark blue)Calms, activates the digestive system and circulation of fluids in the body; relaxes and combats anxiety and discouragement. Violet: Insight, spirituality, transformation, determination, peace and devotion to others. Regulates respiration and strengthens digestion; inspires, helps with grief and promotes serenity. Black: Detachment, seclusion, ignorance, pride, elegance, security. Dissolves energy blockages and tension, relieves pain; offers protection for the self. White: Purity, sincerity, clarity, innocence, truth, perfection, immortality. Helps with all deficiencies and weaknesses, provides energy and leads to self-realization ___________________________________________________________ GEMSTONES AND THE CHAKRAS The practice of acupuncture and reflexology has confirmed that the smallest regions of the body can have a significant influence on an entire organ. The same principle underpins the practice of healing with stones. Healing stones are particularly powerful when used in conjunction with the body’s energy centers, the chakras. Indian doctors and therapists have posited that sickness is always linked to a disturbance in the flow of energy within the body. The free flow of this energy provides cells and organs with what they need to sustain their healthy functioning. In fact, health can be defined as the state in which energy is flowing unimpeded through the chakras. But, when for whatever reason the flow of energy is blocked, a part of the body will not function properly. These blockages can arise from physical complaints or psychic conflicts. There are seven primary chakras in the human body vibrating at seven different frequencies, each sharing information with the others. In addition, there are secondary chakras in the hands and feet. If you want to use stones to influence the chakras, you should find a smooth flat stone, whose color matches the chakra you want to affect. Lay it directly on that chakra for one hour a day. It is very important to be quiet and rest during this process. You can also tape the stone directly on the chakra overnight. ___________________________________________________________ FIRST CHAKRA – ROOT CHAKRA The root chakra lies between the rectum and the genital area. It absorbs energy from the earth. It is the energy center for all of the body’s hard tissue: bone, spinal column, teen and nails. It influences the intestines and prostate, as well as blood and cell formation. • Energy of the first chakra – A disturbance in the root chakra leads to addition, uncontrolled or diminished sexuality, digestive disorders and obesity. If energy flows smoothly through this chakra, one will feel a deep connection to nature. • Stones for the chakra – Stones recommended for treating the root chakra are garnet, hematite, red jasper, coral, onyx, rhodonite, ruby and black tourmaline. • Color for the chakra – Red. In all cultures red is the color of life, warmth and vitality. Red stimulates the life force. ___________________________________________________________ SECOND CHAKRA – SACRAL CHAKRA The sacral chakra lies above the pubic bone and opens frontward. This center governs the flow of all the body’s liquid elements: blood, lymph, sweat, digestive juices, sperm and urine, as well as tears. • Energy of the second chakra – A disturbance in the second chakra causes sexual problems. Life may seem to lose its meaning. When the balance of energy is restored, one becomes more open and its able to enjoy life. • Stones for the chakra – Stones recommended for treating the sacral chakra are orange beryl, orange jasper, carnelian and citrine. • Color for the chakra – Orange. Orange is the symbolic color of the sacral chakra. It is warm and positive. It is the color of nourishment and circulation. ___________________________________________________________ THIRD CHAKRA - NAVAL OR SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA The third chakra, the solar plexus, lies above the navel. This chakra governs the stomach, liver, spleen and gall bladder, the digestive system and the automatic nervous system. • Energy of the heart chakra – When energy flows uninterruptedly through the third chakra, one feels a deep sense of inner peace. Blockages will create discontent, restlessness and discouragement. • Stones for the chakra – Stones recommended for treating the navel chakra are tiger’s eye, topaz, yellow tourmaline and citrine. • Color for the chakra – Yellow. Yellow corresponds to the third chakra. It stands for intelligence. Fourth chakra – Heart Chakra The heart chakra lies in the middle of the chest and opens frontward. It governs the heart and circulatory system. It also influences the functioning of the thymus gland and the immune system. • Energy of the hear chakra – The one whose heart chakra has been opened radiates joy and friendliness. He will be considerate of others and have a highly developed sense of empathy. • Stones for the chakra – Stones recommended for treating the heart chakra are green, moss agate, olivine, emerald and tourmaline. Pink: coral, rhodonite, rhodochrosite and rose quartz. • Color for the chakra – Green. The calming vibrations of the green spectrum are the best healing agents for the nervous system. ___________________________________________________________ FIFTH CHAKRA – THROAT CHAKRA This chakra lies at the base of the throat. It opens down and to the front. It provides energy to the thyroid gland. It also governs hunger and thirst, ear, eyes, nose and throat, the bronchial passages and the lungs, esophagus, vocal chords and speech. • Energy of the fifth chakra – When energy flows freely through the throat chakra, one will be open to new experiences. Such individuals will be able to express themselves and stand up for their beliefs. • Stones for the chakra – Stones recommended for treating the throat chakra are aquamarine, chalcedony, Celestine, chrysocolla, moonstone, opal, pearl, turquoise and blue topaz. • Color for the chakra – Blue. The vibratory effect of the color blue is cooling, calming and healing. Blue is the color of innocence. ___________________________________________________________ SIXTH CHAKRA – FOREHEAD CHAKRA, THE THIRD EYE The forehead chakra, or the third eye, lies above the top of the nose. It is linked to the eyes, nose, face and senses, as well as those more intangible avenues of perception, including insight and intuition. • Energy of the forehead chakra – When energy flows through the forehead chakra one’s understanding becomes broad and deep. Such an individual sees the world and himself clearly. He can rely upon his own intuitive sense. • Stones for the chakra – Stones recommended for treating the third eye are sodalite, amethyst, sapphire, rock crystal and fluorite. • Color for the chakra – Indigo. Indigo, the color of mysteries and mysticism, banishes sickness and evil from one’s awareness and allows space for mental freedom. ___________________________________________________________ THE SEVENTH CHAKRA - CROWN CHAKRA Celestial energy enters the body through the crown chakra. It is the stepping off point for the infinite. It governs one’s size and inner development. • Energy of the seventh chakra – The opening of this chakra leads to enlightenment. • Stones for the chakra – Stones recommended for treating the seventh chakra are amethyst, rock crystal, diamonds and violet fluorite. • Colors for the chakra – Three colors are associated with the crown chakra. Violet, the color with the highest vibratory frequency; white, the color of pure intelligence; and gold, the light of the life force. The Variety of Stones Since ancient times, natural medicine has made use of the healing powers of gemstones and crystals. Most of these stones exist in three different forms. Rough Stones: The most natural form is the unworked stone, broken from the rock and preserving its irregular, rough untouched surface. Tumbled Stones: The rounded, tumbled stone without points or sharp edges feels smooth and pleasant to the touch and clearly reveals the mineral veins in the stone. Jewelry: The third form is the cut gemstone. This is available cut in a rounded cabochon shape or faceted with many tine little adjacent surfaces at an angle to each other, or with the flawless classical brilliant cut. ___________________________________________________________ HOW – TO – DICTIONARY ON GEMSTONES “Natural” Gemstones • Are found in nature and have not been enhanced. They are cut to show off their inherent natural beauty. The higher their quality, the more perfect, the rarer thy become. “Gemstones” • Are found in nature, and most of today’s gemstones have been enhanced in some fashion. There are main processes that can improve a gemstone’s appearance. Temperature, irradiation and chemicals used alone or in combination with each other. • Temperature Whether manmade or natural, temperature affects a gemstone’s growth and appearance. Different temperatures are used to change the saturation of the original color, as well as the actual color. • Irradiation Did you know that if you lay your gemstones in the sun, it can fade out? That’s because the sun gives off radiation which can permanently fade out the gemstone’s original color. Remember, your stone came from deep within the dark earth. In a similar situation, gamma radiation can be used in tightly controlled laboratory situations to hit the electrons of a gemstone into new positions. This technique changes the physical properties of the stone and therefore its interaction with light/color. • Chemicals Enhancements using chemicals serve a lot of purposes. 1. Glues -- are used to assemble, bond, harden and fill cracks. This enhancement works best with (soft on Mohs hardness scale) stones such as turquoise and lapis lazuli. 2. Dying -- porous stones or diffusion methods that dye just the surface of harder stones such as sapphires and rubies. 3. Cleaning chemicals -- such as bleach and hydrogen peroxide will doll up any gemstone. 4. Oiling and waxing -- can be used to bring out color and shine. 5. Impregnation -- gemstones have also been known to be impregnated with pigments. “Synthetic” Gemstones • -have the same ingredients and crystalline structure as their natural counterparts. For example, CZ zirconium) has the same ingredients as a diamond, but it is manmade (in a lab, not a volcano). Synthetic stones that do not have a natural counterpart, such as goldstone. Gold stone does not occur in nature and is made out of copper flakes suspended in glass. You often see it sold alongside gemstones. “Simulated” Gemstones • -are also called simulants. These are manmade and do not have the same ingredients or crystalline structure as their natural counterparts. For example, cherry quartz is very rare. Its simulated version is cut or cast glass with streaks of pink in it. [Glass has telltale bubbles]. A quirky example is when one synthetic gemstone is used to simulate a different gemstone. For example: colored glue sandwiched between two synthic spinels simulates a peridot. Now twist your brain around that one! Why use anything other than the natural gemstone? Availability and cost! How do you know if your gemstone has been treated? Remember that today most stones have been treated because those that have not look fantastic) are rare. Honesty is the best policy and in the gemstone world, that means “disclosing” what the enhancements are.