A gemstone or gem, also called a precious or semi precious stone, is a piece of attractive mineral, which when cut and polished is used to make jewellery.

Many people believe that gemstones can influence different aspects of the human body and mind. There are numerous claims that they aid such in diverse areas as harmonious relationships, allergies, and spiritual awakening.

Here is a selection of the more popular gemstones and their healing properties.

 

Agate

Agate was highly valued as a talisman in ancient times and has been used as a traveller's amulet for centuries. It is believed to bring good fortune, health, wealth and long life.

As well as quenching thirst and preventing fevers, Persian magicians used agate to divert storms and athletes to increase vitality. It's also said to bring self-confidence by banishing fear.

Some call its strange patterns 'cosmic caterpillar tracks'. Others' swear that wearing these beads can heighten the spiritual consciousness and balance the body's physical and mental state.

 

Amethyst

Amethyst belongs to the quartz family and the purple color is due to traces of iron.   Colored purple-to-lilac, and ranging from opaque to transparent. 

Named from the Greek word "amethustos",  meaning without wine.  Amethyst is an especially powerful stone, a symbol of sincerity, security, and peace of mind.   It protects, reduces negativity and brings spirituality - hence the name "Pope Stone".  The Christian crusaders attached it to their rosaries.  A stone of divine love. 

Healers suggest this stone could help dream inspiration if placed under the pillow at night.  Legend even says drinking from an amethyst chalice will prevent intoxication.

 

Aquamarines 

From lightest sky-blue to the deep blue of the sea, aquamarines show all these shades of an exceptionally beautiful range of usually light blues. It is a truly fascinating stone. Women all over the world covet it because of its fine blue colour, which suits almost any complexion or eye-colour to perfection.

Its light blue arises feelings such as sympathy, trust, harmony or friendship. These are good feelings, which involve a partner or companion, and prove their vale in long-lasting relationships. Aquamarine blue is a divine and eternal colour, since it is, after all, the colour of the skies. Aquamarine blue, however, is also the colour of water with its life-giving properties

Allegedly its powers develop best if the stone is immersed in sun-drenched water. However, it seems a wiser course to carry it, because according to ancient traditions, carrying an aquamarine is supposed to guarantee a happy marriage and to make its owner happy and rich. The ideal gemstone, not only for lovers and married couples.

 

Blue Lace agate

Blue lace agate is one of the rarest and most popular of the agates. This wonderful soft blue coloured stone is a calming, uplifting stone. The blue colour is regarded to be cooling and soothing to the mind encouraging peace.

Renowned as a gentle healing stone, blue lace agate when worn around the neck is considered effective against infection, inflammation and throat problems. While holding it in the hand is said to be the best way to dispel anger.

 

 

Carnelian

Carnelian is for confidence.  Said to help blood disorders and eliminate toxins from the body.  Carnelian is in tune with the energies of the Earth, making you feel anchored and comfortable with your environment.  Allowing you to pause and reflect, while feeling settled and more secure. 

Carnelian also stimulates energy that influences the reproductive organs; hence it's long use as a fertility symbol.  It is said to stimulate creativity and have a clearing effect, replacing negative energy with positive. Making it easier to find direction and feel in control of your life.

A good stone for people starting new projects or who feel they are going nowhere.  It motivates, allowing you to find the energy to make the most out of life.

Carnelian is best for people with the zodiac sign of Leo. 

 

Coral

Coral is not a true gemstone, but a product of marine life.  However, it's been used as a gem since prehistoric times.  With a history of religious meaning, like being one of the seven treasures in Buddhist scriptures.

Coral was long thought to be a strong talisman against evil spirits and hurricanes.  It is also said to reduce blood flow, helping anaemia, and is thought to give wisdom and prevent madness.

Most of this coral is found in the Mediterranean Sea or in the Pacific off Japan and Taiwan. 

 

Fluorite

The mineral fluorite is famous for its glassy lustre and wide range of colours - from purple, blue, green, yellow, colourless, brown, pink, black and reddish orange.  Named after the Latin word "To flow". 

Fluorite brings perceptiveness, peace and calm to a troubled mind.  It's particularly useful in medication, because holding even a small piece in the hand brings a sense of inner peace.   Those who choose this stone are likely to be artistic and creative, being able to earn money from their talent  - as well as self-critical with a fear of failure.

Fluorite is considered to be the most powerful healing stone, especially for strengthening the bone tissue.

 

Smokey Quartz

The stone of serenity.

Smokey Quartz is believed to be an excellent stone for removing negative energy of any kind transforming it to calming positive energy.  It is also a very protective and grounding stone bringing physical and psychic protection from negative energy.

The stone is said to enhance survival instincts, and help one reach personal and business goals, as well as assisting in making wishes come true.  It helps with creativity, prioritizing needs and wants, and wisdom.

In addition, Smokey Quartz is believed to bring abundance, prosperity, and good luck.

Emotionally, Smokey Quartz is excellent for elevating moods, overcoming negative emotions, and relieving depression. The stone is believed to relieve stress, fear, jealousy, and anger transforming them into positive energies.