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10 H


Agate


Agate, a variety of quartz, comes in several colors. Properties shared by all agate are char-


acterized as stimulating the intellect and balancing the intellect and emo- tions. Commonly known types and uses include: • Blue lace agate, to increase effec- tive communication and treat throat ailments.


• Fire agate, to inspire action and free- dom from inertia.


• Moss agate, to enhance prosperity and self-esteem; elixirs made from this stone are applied to relieve skin problems and eye disorders, and to aid digestion.


Amethyst Amethyst, another variety of quartz, is found in shades of purple,


26 www.VOFLnatural.com


healingways HEALING CRYSTALS


How Natural Stones Can Support Wellness


by Patricia Deneen


FULL DISCLOSURE by Adam Graham


When shopping for a healing crys-


tal, it’s good to know if it has been altered in any way. Many gemstones are routinely treated to enhance their appearance. So, those inter- ested in their healing properties will want to ask a reputable dealer for full disclosure of the source and treatment of an individual stone. Ask if a stone of interest has been


ealing crystal practitioners believe that crystals create a change in subtle energies on


the mental, emotional, physical and metaphysical planes that, in turn, effect healing. They may be handled or laid on the body, incorporated into jewelry, contribute to gem elixirs (polished quartz only), and used to complement meditation. Following are 10 of the many stones commonly used for such purposes and some of the reasons why.


from light to dark. It has been applied to aid meditation, increase psychic ability and spiritual awareness and relieve headaches. It, too, is consid- ered a help in balancing the emotions and intellect.


Aventurine Aventurine,


of a generally pale green color, is often combined with rose quartz, because of


both stones’ association with the heart chakra. It is portrayed as protection against negative physical and emo- tional influences on the heart center.


Bloodstone Bloodstone, also


called heliotrope, is a form of chalcedony quartz that is green with red specks. It is portrayed as helping to purify the blood and increase strength and vitality. In meditation, it may be considered supportive in opening a communications link with ancestors. Because of its association with blood, it has become a popular stone asso- ciated with healing wounds and for menstrual issues.


Carnelian Carnelian, another chalcedony quartz, available in pink, orange,


• Agate: usually dyed, but natural colors are available


• Carnelian: usually heated and oc- casionally dyed


• Amethyst, aventurine, bloodstone, clear quartz, lapis lazuli, moon- stone, rose quartz, smoky quartz: not typically treated


For more information on the compo- sition, care and enhancement of gem- stones, visit AddMoreColorToYourLife. com/gemstones/gem-palette.asp.


Adam Graham is marketing manager for the American Gem Trade Association.


heated, irradiated or otherwise chemically altered. Also inquire about its country of origin and mining and distribution process and conditions. Is there any chance that child labor or onsite chemical toxins were involved? Could the stone have been stolen, or traded on the black market? Members of the nonprofit


American Gem Trade Association have signed on to uphold the highest ethical standards in their business practices, including decla- ration of gemstone enhancements; they can be a good place to start. Following are some general guide- lines provided by the association.


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