More than you ever wanted to know about Azurite

This edition of my ongoing series of blog posts about gem and mineral fact, fiction and lore, features azurite; a beautiful blue copper mineral.

Azurite is a basic copper carbonate. It varies from a very dark blue thru "azure" blue; thus it's name. Azurite is a secondary copper mineral and develops in the zone of alteration in hydro-thermal replacement deposits, where it commonly occurs with malachite.

Lore

It is said that the religious leaders of ancient Egypt used this stone to awaken their spirituality.

Medicinally, azurite is said to stimulate the brain.

Azurite " . . . enhances creative ability and helps to eliminate indecision and worries which are quietly agitating in the 'heart space', and stimulates ones compassionate and empathetic nature. It also enhances self-confidence, allowing for invincibility when required." 1

"The blue color of this crystal makes it ideal for dream magick and overall harmony." 2


1) A. Melody "Love is in the Earth- A Kaleidoscope of Crystals" pg. 71

2) Marian Singer, Trish MacGregor "The Only Wiccan Spell Book You'll Ever Need" pg 53

More than you ever wanted to know about Aventurine

This edition of my ongoing series of blog posts about gem and mineral fact, fiction and lore, features aventurine.

Aventurine is a quartzite gemstone composed of interlocking grains of quartz and small mica crystals. It comes in a number of colors ranging from golden brown to green. The name comes from the Italian word avventura meaning "chance."

Lore

The ancient Chinese prized aventurine; the imperial seal was said to have been carved from this material. They referred to this stone as yu, and held it in high esteem.

In ages past, the Tibetans revered aventurine. To symbolize increased divinatory power the eyes in sacred statues were often made from it.

As a touchstone, aventurine is thought to be helpful in achieving serenity. Aventurine is also a gambler's talisman. A lucky stone said to attract money.

Medicinally, aventurine has been used to improve eyesight and heal eye disease. "It has been used in the treatment of disorders of the lungs, heart, adrenal glands, and the muscular and urogenital systems." 1

Also known as the "dreamer's stone" as it encourages great ideas and independence. 2

"Green aventurine is a stone associated with the regeneration of one's spirit and creativity. It is said that this is a useful stone for people who love to pursue adventures." 3



1) A. Melody "Love is in the Earth- A Kaleidoscope of Crystals" pg. 68

2) Richard Webster "Pendulum Magic for Beginners: Power to Achieve All Goals" page 82

3) Paul Beyerl "Gem and Mineral Lore" pg. 23