Everyone has something they do that they are passionate about. For some it’s a sport, cooking, or maybe something creative; although I love golf, collecting gemstones is admittedly less frustrating.
If I’m being honest, I mostly collect because of the aesthetic quality. Whether or not the stones are tumbled, finished, or raw, they each have a unique quality that sets them apart. I have a variety of rings, pendants, and earrings, and though I am partial to certain pieces, I don’t discriminate when it comes to beautiful jewelry.
The mythical history behind gemstones goes back thousands of years and has roots in many of the world’s religions, both monotheistic and polytheistic. While I don’t necessarily believe in the healing powers of the stones, it is kind of fun to think that there may be some common thread between everything that has spanned thousands of years and many different cultures.
These are a few of my favorite pieces and the believed "powers" they hold:
1. Citrine
This was my first stone, gifted to me by a friend. Citrine is a prosperity stone and said to be effective when placed near a cash register or in a special spot in your small business. It is also a great stone to shield against jealousy and spite.
2. Moonstone
This rainbow moonstone is without a doubt my favorite piece. This was the first ring I got and it’s the one I never leave home without. Said to be the traveler's stone, moonstone is a good protection stone, especially during a full moon. Moonstone is also believed to be a stone that promotes calm and soothes the subconscious.
3. Emerald
Emerald is one of my favorite stones, and I had always wanted it to be my birthstone. It is believed to awaken or revive passion in many aspects of life, and is said to relieve heaviness in one's heart and should be worn close to your heart.
4. Onyx
This onyx bracelet is one of my favorites. I picked it up in Rome, and as one might expect, it is a rosary bracelet. Onyx is believed to help the wearer let go of the past and focus on living in the present. It is also good absorbing negative energy, as many darker stones do. (Unfortunately, I don't have a picture of this stone, but trust me, it's pretty dark and amazing.)
5. Kyanite
This is one of my newer pieces, and I really love it. This particular blue kyanite has been paired with clear quartz. They are helpful with self-reflection and inner discovery, and like most light blue stones, Kyanite can aid in acceptance and forgiveness.
6. Clear Quartz
Clear quartz is a stone that can be used in many ways, not to mention is beautifully simple. Clear quartz is said to be best when you don’t know exactly what you want to improve upon; it facilitates whatever intention you put into it.
7. Amber
Amber is a stone I had wanted for a long time but had never found one that I really liked. This one was small and simple but was still so pretty. Amber has strong metaphysical properties and aids in mental protection; this includes relieving depression and minimizing stress.
8. Larimar
Larimar is a stone that was discovered by a member of the U.S. Peace Corps and a local Dominican who had decided to name the stone after his daughter “Larissa” and “mar,” the Spanish word for sea. This is another of my favorite pieces and one of the rings I rarely leave home without. I found this at an artisanal summer fair in my hometown. Larimar is another serenity stone, and when worn regularly it can create a feeling of peace of mind. It is a stone that is believed to help relieve anxieties while opening the throat chakra to verbalize these stressors.
9. Opal
This opal ring is one that my brother got me for Christmas, and it’s also his birthstone, so I often think of him when I wear it. Opal is believed to bring one's characteristics to the surface to aid in examination and personal transformation. It also helps increase optimism and joy.
10. Indian Agate
Like most other agates, Indian agate can be useful in harmonizing energies, and promotes courage, self-confidence, and emotional stability. I bought this bracelet at il Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano in Rome. The rosary was just so beautiful, and I spent about 20 minutes picking out a strand with the perfect stones. This is definitely one that I can wear all the time.
11. Hematite
This hematite bracelet was the first gemstone bracelet I bought while in Rome. My friend and I had gone to the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian and found this little gem and I couldn’t leave it behind; it’s metallic sheen was amazing. Hematite is a great grounding stone used for stability and protection. Hematite also releases and absorbs emotional negativity as well aiding in mental organization.
12. Mother of Pearl
Mother of pearl is a mineral deposit that lines the inner walls of shells, giving life to pearls and therefore is believed to be a source of life and renewal. It can also aid in stronger intuition and psychic abilities.
13. Lapis Lazuli
This stone activates a creative mind and aids in knowledge and understanding. It is a stone that is believed to reveal truths, and therefore facilitates learning and enhances memory. I’ve always wanted a lapis lazuli and decided to get this one wrapped at the local jewelry shop. This picture also features my gecko, Teddy.
14. Pearl
Pearl is thought to purify the heart and mind, and due to the nature in which it forms, is often deemed the purity stone. I really enjoy this choker because it seems the combination of black and white makes for an interesting juxtaposition.
15. Azurite Malachite
This stone is great for opening your third eye chakra, allowing for deeper understanding and an expansion of the mind. This stone also aids in emotional cleansing and finding inner peace.
16. Turquoise
Turquoise is one of those stones that almost everyone has, but continues to be breathtaking every time you see it. I love the history and culture surrounding the Native American people, specifically the Hopi Indians. This Kokopelli pendant is a great little piece that I rarely wear but love all the same. Historically, this stone is a symbol of male power, and protects against evil. It is not surprising that turquoise was chosen to be added to this pendant as the Kokopelli was believe to be not only a protector of health, but also secured good harvests and successful pregnancies.
17. Jasper
Jasper is a nurturing stone and brings beauty into life along with comfort and relaxation. This often includes working through emotional stress and trauma.
18. Bloodstone
Another type of jasper, this stone also known as heliotrope. The historical myth behind this stone earns the stone another name, Christ’s Stone. It is said that during the crucifixion of Christ, his blood fell on the green earth beneath it creating the gemstone we know today. Bloodstone helps to to increase mental stability and release depressive qualities, boosting motivation. These two stones are ones that I haven’t yet wrapped but can’t wait to wear!
Most of these gemstones aren't that hard to come by and are not only beautiful but can be personal and unique. Do a little digging and you may be surprised by what pretty pieces you can find!
