Gemology 101

I know that many people wonder about the lore behind gemstones. Here is information on some of the stones I have used in my designs:

Agate

Agate is one form of a stone called chalcedony. It forms in curved bands of different colors and densities. People used to believe that if you wore agate, it would persuade others that what you said was right. Agate was a stone that made people like and respect you. It was also supposed to ward off bad dreams.

Amazonite

This stone is thought to bestow truth, integrity and honor to its wearer. It has been said that amazonite enhances love, and soothes tense, aggravated emotions and situations. It is a communication-enabling stone and a good stone for enhancing creativity. Amazonite is believed to lessen self-defeating behaviors.

Carnelian

Carnelian is believed to remind us to be “in the moment.” It is said to be a stone of protection particularly from anger, jealousy and fear. It is also believed to assist one in finding the right mate. This stone calms fears about death and rebirth, bringing serenity and acceptance of the great cycle of life.

Chalk Turquoise

Chalk Turquoise is formed from white chalk remnants of mined turquoise. Generally, it’s dyed to a lime green or blue color then stabilized for hardness and durability. Stabilization also prevents the absorption of body oils and deterioration from chemicals.

Jade

The Chinese believe Jade not only brings prosperity but also allows you to hold onto your money rather than have it slip through your fingers. All jade is believed to produce longevity, fertility, serenity, wisdom, balance, moderation, perspective and stability.

Pearls

Promote sincerity, truth and loyalty. Enhance personal integrity, soothing, calming, yet focus attention.

Peridot

Peridot is said to help one find happiness within one’s self and to overcome anger and jealousy.

Rose Quartz

Rose quartz is light to deep rose in color. Scientists aren’t sure what causes the tint, but it may be the presence of tiny amounts of titanium, a metallic element. Rose quartz is all about love. People believed it got rid of anger and promoted caring. It was considered a wonderful gift to give anyone for whom you cared.

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