Gem Lore
Agate derives its name from the Greek Agateес- meaning happy. It’s seen to be the stone for self-expression and creativity, and helps develop powers of eloquence, self-confidence and public speaking. Agate is also considered a good gemstone for promoting health and wellbeing, and for bringing stability to one’s life.
Amethyst The color purple has long been considered a royal color, so it is not surprising that amethyst has been so popular through history. Fine amethysts are featured in the British Crown Jewels and were also a favorite of Catherine the Great and Egyptian royalty. Amethyst is considered a stone of peace and strength, and often associated with sedative and protective properties.
Aventurine is a green jade-like stone. Aventurine is considered to amplify creativity, motivation and leadership, bringing energy and purpose to what we do. It’s considered a great stone to attract luck, abundance and success. Green Aventurine has a particularly soothing energy behind it, and is recommended for working through unresolved emotional issues.
Blue Chalcedony is most commonly thought to give physical strength, endurance and beauty to the wearer. It has a calming and nurturing energy, and is considered to enhance responsiveness, receptivity and generosity.
Carnelian, a blood-red stone, is linked with emotional warmth, sociability, creativity, individuality and courage. It is said to bring a passion for life, and living in the moment. Buddhists in India created amulets inlaid with Carnelian and other semi-precious stones, ascribing to them powers of protection and utilizing them in rituals.
Citrine, derived from the French word citron or lemon, is a signature of wisdom and peace. It has been known through time as the "the merchant's stone" because it was kept in the cash box of businesses to increase their money! It symbolizes light-heartedness, joy and optimism, and is seen to enhance creativity, and motivate writers. It is also said to stimulate memory.
Dark Blue Iolite also known as water sapphire, comes from the Greek word ios, which means violet. Iolite is considered one of the best stones to use in healing and spiritual activities like meditation. Iolite is great for bringing harmony within the self and eliminating disruptions in relationships.
Epidote Jasper from the Greek epidosis means growing together. This particular peach and green variety is supposed to help foster healthy relationships through balanced emotions. It encourages harmonious partnerships, both in love and in business. It’s also seen as beneficial for healing and nurturing the physical and emotional body during injury, prolonged illness or hospitalization.
Garnet, one of the world’s most ancient gems, was so named by the ancient Greeks since the color reminded them of the pomegranate seed or granatum. Garnet has been treasured for thousands of years. It symbolizes fire, faith, courage, truth, grace, compassion, constancy and fidelity. It also offers protection to the traveler.
Labradorite was named after the Labrador Peninsula where it was first discovered. The Native Indians of Labrador called it ‘firestone’ because of its captivating play of color at certain angles, and attributed mystical qualities to labradorite. It is seen as a stone of transformation and self-confidence, and one that promotes intellectual, intuitive and mystical wisdom.
Lapis Lazuli has a deep azure color, often flecked with brownish pyrite inclusions. It was treasured by ancient Babylonian and Egyptian civilizations, and worn by royalty. It is considered to be a stone that helps expand your viewpoint and change your perception of reality. Consequently, it is a highly spiritual stone and is used during meditation.
Malachite derives its name from Greek word malakos meaning soft. According to another theory the word malachite comes from Greek malhe, which means grass. It is believed that gazing at Malachite or holding it relaxes the nervous system and calms stormy emotions. It is also about change, and is a great stone for those who do not like change in their lives, because it allows for an easy transition and brings harmony into one's life.
Opal is derived from the Latin word opalus, meaning seeing jewel, probably because its most striking quality is its ability to refract and reflect specific wavelengths of light. Opal was included among the noble gems and was ranked second only to Emerald by the Romans. It symbolizes hope, happiness and truth, and is said to enhance self worth, confidence and self-esteem.
Peridot often used in fine jewelry has long been considered a symbol of fame, dignity and protection. Ancient Romans wore peridot to attract love, relieve depression and calm the nerves. Supposedly, some of Cleopatra's ‘emeralds’ were in fact peridots! Peridot is considered to enhance understanding, recognition, openness and acceptance. It’s believed to inspire happiness and to protect its wearer.
Red Coral is associated with the royal god of war- Mars. It's linked with instilling confidence and courage, while helping to overcome fear. It's also believed that red coral helps overcome obstacles, absorb negative energy, and support friendships. According to Indian astrology, red coral or Moonga represents the planet Mars which is regarded as a symbol of energy, ambition and vitality.
Ruby Fuchsite is known for transforming destructive, negative energies into positive, uplifting ones. It's believed to soothe distress, calm the mind, and instill happiness, honesty, courage and passion in the bearer of the stone.
Tigers Eye shows bands that resemble an eye of a tiger, hence the name. Lore has it that wearing tiger's eye is beneficial for health and spiritual well being. It also suggests that wearing Tigers Eye is great for business, and an aid to achieving clarity and focusing the mind.
Turquoise has an extremely long history of use by kings, shamans and warriors for protection and good fortune. Turquoise in the modern workplace carries a similar significance and is believed to support leadership and impart benefits while traveling for work or while relocating for work. It's seen as facilitating clear communication.