Gemstone Properties

Agate

Agate is a banded shell-like chalcedony, the name of which supposedly derives from the river Achates in Sicily. It is a harmonising stone that is said to be soothing and calming. Slowly bringing great strength. It is also said to build self-confidence and improve concentration and perception. There are several different varieties of agate that have specific properties

Amethyst

A purple to lavender stone that we source from east Africa; amethyst is the most highly valued of the quartz group. Its name comes from the Greek and means ‘not drunken’ as it was worn as an amulet against drunkenness. It is said to be calming and to have strong healing powers and can be used to aid insomnia and strengthen the immune system.

Apache Gold

Apache gold is a combination of steatite and pyrite, forming a beautiful gold and black mottled stone with a metallic sheen. We source ours from Madagascar. Mexican Indians used apache gold in ceremonial magic and during shamanic journeying and it is also used as a grounding stone during meditation.

Apatite

This stone comes in a wide variety of colours although is most often yellow, is from the Greek for ‘cheat’ as it is very easily confused with other stones. It is a stone of inspiration and creativity, stimulating the imagination and the intellect. It aids communication and self-expression and can be helpful for hyperactive children. Physically it is said to heal bones and help cartilage and joints.

Aquamarine

A green-blue stone of the beryl family that we source from Brazil, Aquamarine is named after its sea-water colour, from the latin ‘water of the sea’. It was carried by sailors as a talisman against drowning and was also believed to counteract the forces of darkness. It is a stone of courage that soothes fear and supports the taking of responsibility for oneself and others. It sharpens intellect and clears confusion. Physically it is said to aid the body's cleaning systems and the immune system.

Aventurine – Green Aventurine, Blue Aventurine

Aventurine is a stone of the quartz family, mostly dark green is colour it can also be found in blue, red and peach varieties and has a metallic, glittery appearance. It is a stone of prosperity and reinforces leadership qualities. Psychologically it relieves stammers and neuroses and stabilises one’s state of mind. Physically it regulates growth in early childhood and is believed to be anti-inflammatory , aiding allergies and skin conditions. Blue aventurine specifically is a powerful mental healer, whereas green aventurine is a comforter and heart healer

Azurite

A deep blue, shiny stone named for its colour, our Chilean Azurite is said to expand the mind, bringing about new perspectives, clear understanding and stimulating memory. Emotionally it can clear stress and worry and alleviate grief and sadness. It can also aid self-expression and give confidence to move into the unknown without fear.

Blue Lace Agate

Pale blue with white or darker blue lines, blue lace agate is a wonderful healing stone. It has a soft, calming energy that encourages free expression of thoughts and feelings. Physically it is used to treat infection and inflammation and fever and in particular is a throat healer. It counteracts repression of feelings and is useful for helping men to release and accept their sensitivity.

Blue Opal

Blue opal, that we source from Peru, is an emotional soother that can enhance communication and help with lack of confidence.

Bronzite

A bronze stone known as a ‘stone of courtesy’. It promotes unprejudiced judgement of people and events and can aid decisiveness and certainty.

Calcite

A translucent and waxy, often banded stone, found in a wide range of colours. Calcite comes from India and is an amplifier and cleanser of energy. Psychologically it creates emotional intelligence and combats laziness and lack of motivation. Physically it also acts as a cleanser and strengthens the immune system. Orange calcite in particular is good for balancing emotions and overcoming depression.

Cat’s Eye

Usually a form of quartz, cat’s eye resembles the slit pupils of a cat’s eye. It can occur in many stones so there is an endless colour range. The properties of the stone in which the effect occurs are applicable but in addition cat’s eye represents happiness and serenity and amplify luck. It can also stimulate intuition and enhance awareness.

Chalcedony

Chalcedony is both the name of a species of quartz that includes carnelian and chrysoprase, as well as the name specifically of the bluish white variety of this species. It is a waxy looking stone that can be either transparent or opaque. It is said to be a nurturing stone that promotes good will and dissipates negative energy. In ancient times chalices made out of chalcedony were believed to prevent poisoning. It is said to be a powerful cleanser used for treating infections and sores. It can increase energy and balance the body, emotions, mind and spirit.

Charoite

A mottled purple stone named after a river in Siberia where it is found, Charoite is a stone of transformation. It releases deep fears and bestows drive and spontaneity, reducing stress and worry. It re-energises both physically and mentally but can also aid insomnoia, bringing deep sleep with powerful dreams.

Chrysoprase

A member of the chalcedony species, chrysoprase is an apple green, opaque stone considered the most valuable in the group. The name in Greek means ‘gold leek’ and seems somewhat misapplied. Said by the ancients to promote love of truth, it is believed to encourage fidelity and is calming, promoting openness and opposing judgementalism. It is therefore useful for forgiveness and compassion. Physically it is said to enhance fertility and is also excellent for relaxation and peaceful sleep.

Citrine

Citrine is a quartz named for its lemon yellow colour, although it can also be seen in yellow-brown and brown-grey. A powerful cleanser, said to carry the power of the sun, it is warming, energising and creative. It is also believed to be a stone of abundance and prosperity and is generous and joy giving. Psychologically it raises self-esteem and removes destructive tendencies and enhances individuality and creativity. Emotionally it promotes joy in life and physically it imparts energy and invigoration.

Coral - Fossilised Coral, Japanese Sponge Coral

Coral is from the sea and comes in colour ranges from pink to red, orange and white to black and blue. It represents diplomacy and is said to quiet the emotions and bring peace. It is also said to aid the imagination and intuition and physically to strengthen bones and stimulate tissue regeneration.

Emerald

A stone in the beryl group, the name emerald comes form the Greek ‘smaragdos’ meaning green stone. Ours are natural emeralds, different in appearance and clarity than the precious variety. Emerald is known as the ‘stone of successful love’, enhancing unity and unconditional love. It is said that if it changes colour this signals infidelity. This stone ensures physical, emotional and mental equilibrium and is believed to ward off epilepsy.

Fire Agate

As well as the usual calming properties of agates, fire agate has a strong protective function. It links to the fire element and aids in sexual endeavours and stimulates vitality. It dispels fear and instils security.

Fire Opal

Our fire opals come from Mexico. Fire opal specifically is an enhancer of personal power and a protector against danger. Again it is said to magnify thoughts and feelings and can therefore help with deep-seated feelings of grief by releasing bottled-up emotions.

Flourite

The name of this stone is from India, which ranges in colour from clear to pink, green, purple or brown, and comes from the Latin meaning ‘to flow’. It is believed to be a cleansing and protective stone, purifying the body and mind. It is said to aid arthritis and rheumatism and provide pain relief. It can improve physical and mental co-ordination and counteract mental disorders. It has a stabilising effect on the mind and emotions.

Iolite

We source our Iolite from India. Usually blue, the name of the translucent stone comes from the Greek for ‘violet’. It is said to be a vision stone that gives intuitive insight and is used in shamanic ceremonies. Psychologically it aids in understanding and emotionally encourages taking responsibility for oneself. It is said to detoxify the body and create a strong constitution.

Jasper

Jasper is usually considered a chalcedony but is sometimes put into a group by itself within the quartz group, due to its grainy structure. There are many different varieties of jasper and the colour and appearance varies accordingly. It is known as the ‘supreme nurturer’, said to sustain and support and bring tranquillity and wholeness. Psychologically it imparts determination and courage and can aid quick thinking and imagination.

Labradorite

A beautiful shimmering grey to black stone with blue and yellow iridescence in the feldspar group. We source this stone from Madagascar although it is named after the peninsula of Labrador in Canada where it was found. It is said to be a stone of esoteric knowledge. It raises consciousness, stimulates intuition and banishes fear and insecurity. It is said to energise the imagination and bring new ideas. It is a stone of transformation, a useful companion through change.

Lapis Lazuli

Our lapis lazuli is Afganistani. The name is from the Latin and Arabic meaning ‘blue stone’. Its deep blue colour led it to be used in the Middle Ages as a pigment. It is said to be a protective and harmonising stone, used to aid insomnia and overcome depression by harmonising the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual levels. It is also said to boost the immune system and lower blood pressure.

Malachite

A brilliant green, banded stone from India, Malachite may be named either for its colour (greek – malache meaning ‘mellow’) or for its low hardness (greek – malakos, ‘soft’). It is believed to be an extrememly powerful stone that amplifies both positive and negative energies and is used as a protection stone. It is a stone of transformations, that encourages the expression of feelings and empathy and can facilitate deep emotional healing. It has also been called the ‘midwife stone’ as it is used to alleviate menstrual cramps and assist childbirth.

Moonstone

Moonstone is part of the feldspar group and is named after its beautiful, shimmery moonlight-like appearance. It is known as the ‘stone of new beginnings’ It reminds us that, as the moon waxes and wanes, so everything is part of a cycle of change. It is a calming stone that soothes overreactions and balances emotions. Physically it is said to affect the female reproductive cycle, due to its moon link, stabilising the biorhythmic clock and can be used to aid PMS, conception, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.

Moss Agate

Moss agate is green and translucent with branch markings like foliage or moss. It is a stabilising stone strongly connected to nature. It is therefore said to be extremely beneficial for anyone employed in agriculture or associated with botany. It is also a birthing crystal that is believed to lessen pain and ensure a good delivery. It is also said to improve self-esteem, promote self-expression and attract wealth and abundance.

Mother-of-Pearl, Abalone Shell

Mother-of-Pearl is the inner layer of a mollusc shell, which has an iridescent play of colours. It is so named because it often comes from the shells of pearl oysters. The mother-of-pearl of the abalone shell has been used by the Maori for centuries for inlays in mystical carvings. It is said to stimulate intuition imagination and sensitivity and to provide insight in decision-making and aid co-operation.

Onyx – Red Onyx, Black Onyx

Onyx is a type of chalcedony that usually occurs in the form of layers of a variety of colours, predominant colours include black, red and white. The name comes from the Greek for ‘fingernail’ probably because of its weak transparency. As well as the properties listed under chalcedony, onyx can be used to banish grief, enhance self-control, aid wise decision-making and encourage happiness and good fortune

Opal

The name of this group of stones is derived from the Sanskrit for ‘stone’. The group is divided into precious opals, fire opals and common opals. They come in a wide variety of colours and can be clear or milky, iridescent, fiery or vitreous. Opal is said to be absorbent and reflective, amplifying thoughts and feelings and returning them to source. Opal has always been associated with love, passion and eroticism, intensifying emotional states. It strengthens the will to live and is said to ease childbirth .

Peridot

Also known as chrysolite and olivine, the name peridot probably derives from the Arabic ‘faridat’ meaning ‘gem’ whilst Chrysolite is Greek meaning ‘gold stone’. In ancient times this blue-green stone that we source from Pakistan was believed to be a powerful cleanser, purifying both the body and the soul, clearing burdens, guilt or obsessions. Physically peridot is said to heal and regenerate tissue and strengthen the metabolism and can be helpful during childbirth. Psychologically it alleviates jealousy and resentment. It is said to sharpen the mind and banish lethargy and can improve difficult relationships.

Pietersite

A mottled iridescent golden-brown to grey-blue stone that comes from Namibia, pietersite is also known as tempest stone due to its connection with the storm element. It is said to aid in balancing the endocrine system and production of hormones. It is a stone of vision, promoting spiritual visions and precognition. It is also a strengthening and supporting stone, reinforcing will power and releasing mental and verbal conditioning

Prehnite

A yellow-green stone from Australia, Prehnite is named after a Dutch colonel. It is believed to promote spiritual growth and to bring one onto harmony with nature. In feng-shui it is used to de-clutter and organise. Physically it is used to heal the kidneys and bladder and to treat blood disorders. Psychologically it can alleviate nightmares and phobias and is useful for hyperactive children.

Quartz

Quartz is a group of stones characterised by long pointed crystals. Quartz are said to be extremely powerful healers and energy optimisers, believed to cleanse and enhance both the organs and the soul. Said to aid concentration, unlock memory and to store, release and regulate energy, the specific types of quartz each have their own properties.

Rainbow Calsilica

A recently discovered new gemstone from Brazil, this stone has a unique range of striped colours that gives its name.

Obsidian – Mahogany Obsidian, Black Obsidian, Snowflake Obsidian

Obsidian is molten lava that has cooled so quickly that it has no time to crystallise; it is shiny and opaque and comes in a wide range of colours. It is a stone without boundaries and has highly effective cathartic properties. It is also a strong protective stone, removing negative spiritual influences; the black and mahogany forms are particularly effective. Gentler forms such as snowflake obsidian can be calming and draw out mental tension. Physically obsidian has been used to treat pain and cramps. Psychologically it brings clarity to emotions and promotes compassion and strength.

Rhodochrosite

A pink banded stone sourced from Argentina, its name comes from the Greek for ‘rose-coloured’. This stone represents selfless love and compassion and is therefore an excellent stone for the heart and relationships. It brings repressed emotions to the surface and teaches the heart to assimilate painful feelings without denial. Psychologically it improves self-worth, soothes emotional stress and lifts a depressed mood, bringing positivity and lightness to life.

Rhodonite

The name of this Australian stone comes again from the Greek for ‘rose’. It is pink or red usually mottled with black. Rhodonite is an emotional balancer that heals emotional shock and is extremely beneficial in cases of emotional self-destruction, co-dependency and abuse. It promotes forgiveness and reconciliation, encourages calm over revenge and retaliation, and alleviates confusion.

Rhodonite

The name of this Australian stone comes again from the Greek for ‘rose’. It is pink or red usually mottled with black. Rhodonite is an emotional balancer that heals emotional shock and is extremely beneficial in cases of emotional self-destruction, co-dependency and abuse. It promotes forgiveness and reconciliation, encourages calm over revenge and retaliation, and alleviates confusion.

Rhyolite (Rainforest Jasper)

Rhyolite is a banded or spotted stone with crystal inclusions that comes in a wide range of colours. It is a stone of creativity that encourages the reaching of a person’s full potential. It enhances self-esteem and self-worth, giving the strength to deal with life’s challenges.

Rose Quartz

A translucent pink stone of the quartz family, sourced from India, this is the most important crystal for the heart, the stone of unconditional love and infinite peace. It is therefore ideal for attracting love and relationships or in existing relationships to restore harmony and encourage unconditional love. This stone also teaches you to love yourself, encouraging self-forgiveness, self-trust and self-worth. It is a heart healer, both physically and emotionally and can soothe pain and comfort grief.

Ruby

Ruby is of the corundum species along with Sapphire. Our natural ruby is a semi-precious stone that differs greatly in appearance from precious ruby. Our ruby comes from India and its name is from the Latin for red. It is a very energetic stone imparting vigour to life. It can, however, over-stimulate in delicate people. It can aid concentration and heighten awareness. Physically, ruby detoxifies and overcomes lethargy and exhaustion.

Ruby-Zoisite

A combination stone of ruby and green zoisite, this stone retains the properties of ruby as well as promoting individuality, whilst still retaining inter-connectedness with the rest of humanity.

Rutilated Quartz

A beautiful smoky stone of the quartz family, with golden-brown, reddish or black thread-like strands, it is also known as angel hair. We get ours from Madagascar. A highly spiritual stone, it has been used to aid astral travel, channelling and scrying. Psychologically and emotionally it can filter negative energy and facilitate transitions, so is good for relieving depression, phobias and anxiety. Physically it can be used to help improve impotence and infertility as well as helping with exhaustion and chronic conditions.

Sapphire

The name is from the greek meaning ‘blue’ although this stone of the corundum species can come in yellow, green, black and purple as well. It focuses and calms the mind and releases mental tension. It aligns the physical, mental and spiritual planes and restores balance within the body. A soothing stone, both physically and mentally, sapphire calms overactive body system and regulates the glands and releases depression and confusion.

Sunstone

Sunstone is also known as aventurine feldspar. It is yellow, orange or red-brown and usually shows brilliant reflections. In ancient Greece it was believed to counteract poison and bring strength and has been used by Canadian Indians in rituals of the medicine wheel. It is a joyful stone, instilling good nature and lust for life and can be used to lift depression and is especially good for seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Tiger’s Eye

A brown, yellow and grey banded stone, that comes form India and Africa, Tiger’s eye is a member of the quartz species. It is a protective stone traditionally carried as a talisman against curses. It is said to strengthen integrity and aid in accomplishing goals and is helpful for resolving internal conflicts. It can be used to aid the overcoming of addictions and heal issues of self-worth and self-criticism.

Tourmaline

Our Tourmaline comes from Afganistan and Pakistan. Tourmalines are a type of hexagonal crystals that come in a variety of colours including black, brown, green, pink, red, blue and yellow. Accordingly Tourmaline in Sinhalese thought to mean ‘stone with mixed colours’. Tourmaline is said to be a cleansing, purifying and protecting stone. It is a shamanic stone, traditionally used for protection during rituals and also to point to a cause in times of touble or indicate a good course of action to take. Psychologically tourmaline aids understanding and promotes self-confidence. Red, yellow and brown are beneficial for sexuality, releasing tension and balancing energy.

Turquoise

Turquoise comes in many colour variations of blue and green. Ours come mainly from Tibet where it is revered as a holy stone. It’s name means ‘Turkish stone’ as the trade route bringing it to Europe travelled through Turkey. It is an excellent healing and strengthening stone. It dispels negative energy, instills inner calm and is empathetic and balancing. It is therefore an excellent stone for depression, exhaustion and panic attacks.

Unakite

A stunning opaque green and orange stone, named after its place of discovery in South Carolina, USA. It is s stone of vision and is used as a casting crystal for scrying. It can help spiritual and mental health bringing a calm gentle energy.