Ritual Necklace

Ritual Necklace 1

It has been a while since I made this necklace, so being able to pick out what stone is what is going to be fun. Add to the fun, the online store I bought the stones from only holds order information for 18 months.

Tanzanite 

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Tanzanite is a stone of transmutation, shifting from lilac-blue to sapphire blue and into deep blue-violet. In faceted form it is stunning, celebrated as the Gemstone of the 20th Century and first promoted by the New York jewelers, Tiffany & Co. who created magnificent pieces to showcase this stone.

It is one of the most valuable of all metaphysical crystals for spiritual exploration, bringing together all aspects of communication and psychic power. Its high vibrational energy invites protection and safety in linking with higher realms, and allows for deep profound meditation. It is particularly helpful in uniting the mind and heart, teaching one to live from a compassionate heart with an illumined mind. [Melody, 634][Hall II, 335-336][Simmons, 392]

Tanzanite is blue Zoisite, a calcium aluminum silicate, and forms in prismatic, usually striated crystals, transparent to slightly opaque, and ranges in color from deep ultramarine blue to light violet-blue. The most coveted crystals are a saturated blue with a hint of purple around it. In raw form Tanzanite occurs as blue, purple, brown and yellow. Nearly all Tanzanite is heat-treated to produce the striking violet-blue color and to remove the brownish yellow areas. Its pleochroistic property provides the shift in colors as the crystal is viewed from different perspectives. In artificial light it appears as an amethyst blue. [www.Gemstone.org][www.Gemselect.com]

Tanzanite is relatively rare and costly, occurring in only one place in the world, the Merelani Hills in Tanzania, East Africa. It was discovered in 1967 and is named for its country of origin. It is not especially durable and should be worn with care. It should never be cleaned by ultrasonic methods. [www.Gemstone.org][www.Gemselect.com]

Tanzanite Uses and Purposes - Overview

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Tanzanite is an excellent crystal for novices to the exploration of psychic powers, as it is very protective and allows the clairvoyant Brow Chakra to open gradually, preventing psychic impressions from becoming overwhelming. To open the Third Eye and psychic powers, circle a Tanzanite clockwise in the center of the brow, and counterclockwise to close it. [Eason, 221]

As a workplace stone, Tanzanite is calming and soothing. Even a tiny piece is beneficial for overcoming communication difficulties. It is also practical in providing a solution to problems when there seems to be none. It is a good stone for career change. [Eason, 221]

Tanzanite aids in sharing spiritual information and knowledge from a heart-centered perspective, making it an excellent crystal for counselors or others in the position of intellectually interpreting emotional experiences. It also benefits empathetic individuals who form interpretations of emotional information they receive intuitively. [Ahsian, 393]

Worn as jewelry, Tanzanite not only stays within one's auric field and brings one's consciousness to a permanently higher state, but brings the positive self-awakening qualities to others who see its beauty. [Simmons, 392]

Tanzanite Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy

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Tanzanite stimulates the Throat, Third Eye and Crown Chakras, uniting the higher mind with intuition and communication.

Tanzanite carries a predominant blue crystal energy that stimulates the Throat Chakra, the voice of the body. It is, in essence, a pressure valve that allows the energy from the other chakras to be expressed. If it is blocked, or out of balance, it can affect the health of the other chakras. When the throat chakra is in balance and open, it allows for the expression of what we think and what we feel. We can communicate our ideas, beliefs, and emotions, bringing our personal truth out into the world. We have an easy flow of energy within the body and spirit. The energy that springs upward from the lower chakras can continue its path enabling free expression and natural release.

The Brow Chakra, also called the Third Eye, is the center of our perception and command. It directs our sight and everyday awareness of the world. Our consciousness is located here, and we relate to ourselves through this chakra. When the brow chakra is in balance our thoughts and internal communications within ourselves are healthy and vibrant. We are open to new ideas, dreams, and visions, and can control the flow of energy within all the chakras. The dark blue/purple crystals of indigo are used to treat imbalances of the brow chakra. It is a quiet color, one of mystery and wisdom and judgment.

The Crown Chakra is located at the top of the head, and is our gateway to the expanded universe beyond our bodies. It controls how we think, and how we respond to the world around us. It is the fountainhead of our beliefs and the source of our spirituality. It connects us to the higher planes of existence and is the source of universal energy and truth. When the Crown is in balance, we know our place in the universe and see things as they are. We are unruffled by setbacks, knowing they are an essential part of life. Imbalances of the Crown chakra are treated with Light Violet crystals. Their violet rays have the universal life force of magic, dreams, inspiration, and destiny. 

Tanzanite is also the most effective stone for linking and attuning the Heart Chakra to the Third Eye. Bringing the heart into cooperation with the mind expands one's search for wholeness and keeps one centered in compassionate humanity. [Simmons, 392]

Tanzanite Goddess Crystals

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Crystals of violet and indigo honor Sophia, the Goddess of Wisdom and contradiction personified. She is the story of being lost then regained, the wisdom of understanding, doubting, and spiritual exploration without dogma.

Tanzanite may also be used to honor Athena, the Greek Goddess of War and Wisdom. She is always depicted in armor and is known as a skilled fighter and strategist, and for her superb logic and intellect. She enjoys blue and purple crystals, associated with fairness, wisdom and loyalty.

Rose Quartz

Pink Quartz Uses and Purposes

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Pink and Rose Quartz are calm, reassuring crystals that help alleviate stress and anxiety, and provide a soothing ambiance to any environment. They bring a relaxed, cooperative atmosphere in the workplace, and are conducive to happy family relationships. They are excellent companions for prayer and meditation, and can open one’s receptivity to the beauty of art, music and the written word. [Melody En, 699]Lembo, 285][Gienger, 69] [celestialearthminerals.com]

A wonderful sleep crystal for adults and children, Pink Quartz promotes beautiful dreams as well as preventing nightmares or night terrors. It also helps children to not be afraid of the dark. [Eason, 13][Lembo, 285]

Pink Quartz is an excellent talisman for teenagers and young girls entering puberty to trust their own instincts and recognize their unique spirit. By opening their heart to their own inner voice they can discover the special talents and gifts they possess and are meant to share with the world. [Eason, 13][Gienger, 69]

Pink Quartz is not only a crystal of identity, it also brings great strength for those faced with a loss of identity, or for those unsure of how to recover after a life-shattering event. Pink Quartz provides a shield for the ego, helping to dispel the darkness and repair emotional devastation. Use Pink Quartz to assist in treatments for amnesia, Alzheimer’s, injury or disease that results in loss of mobility or amputation, for finding one’s way out of drug or alcohol addiction, as well as the loss of one’s identity from cyber theft, financial crises, the dejection of divorce or betrayal, or the sudden death of a soulmate. Pink Quartz brings comfort and connects one to universal love, helping one to re-establish or re-define who they are, reinstate trust, and to emerge stronger, more assured and self-reliant.

Place Pink Quartz in one’s environment, wear or carry on one’s person, or use in an elixir to activate a wonderful, powerful loving energy within the self, and to give rise to a permanence of this loving nature. Pink Quartz may be called upon to attract and nurture new love, revitalize an existing relationship, or to aid in reconciliation efforts and mending quarrels. [Melody En, 699][Eason, 13]

Pink Quartz Goddess Crystals

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Pink Quartz honors Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty (also called Venus, the Roman Goddess of Love). She was one of twelve Olympians who governed all aspects of human life, and is known for her beauty and passion.

Pink Quartz honors Astarte, the Phoenician Goddess of Fertility, Love and War. She is known in many cultures by different names and is said to be the Queen of the Stars. She helps with troubled love, and keeps lovers faithful to each other.

Pink Quartz also honors Turan, the Etruscan Goddess of Love and Beauty; and Quartz clusters may be used to honor Ixcuiname, the Mayan Goddess of the Four Ages of Women.

All Quartz honors Gaia, the Greek Earth Mother Goddess. Born directly out of Chaos, the primal emptiness, she was the first (or one of the first) beings to appear during the process of creation, and is honored as being the Earth itself.

Quartz also honors Gendenwitha, the Morning Star Goddess of the Iroquois.

Amber

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Amber is one of the world’s oldest and most coveted treasures, a “Gold of the Sea” intrinsically formed by light and life, preserved by time and washed upon the shores for humanity, a talisman of beauty, protection and renewal. It has been portrayed as drops of the sun, tears of the gods, hardened honey, and sunlight solidified, and is as desired today as it was in the most ancient cultures, utilized as far back as the Stone Age for its pleasing warmth of color, value in adornment, and its magical and medicinal properties.

Amber belongs to a small class of organic gems, neither a crystal nor a mineral, but a biological product of nature, a protective resin that oozed from living trees in dense, prehistoric forests and fossilized over millions of years. It is highly prized in the metaphysical world for its energetic and healing properties, and for the marvelous Life Force it carries. Amber holds a strong connection to the sun and earth, as well as the once living insects, organisms and plant matter that are forever suspended within its golden structure. It attunes to ancient wisdom and can be a powerful tool for past life recall, or for stimulating the remembrance of genetic lessons and experiences passed down from one’s ancestors. It is useful for clearing family patterns, and initiating one’s prerogative of choice. [Fernie, 322][Simmons, Ahsian, 24][www.gemselect.com][Lembo, 60][Hall, 51][Eason, 82]

Amber is a natural purifier, esteemed for its ability to draw pain and dis-ease from the physical body, as well as the mind and spirit, by absorbing negative or stagnant energies and transforming them into clear, positive energy. This stimulates the body’s own mechanisms to heal itself. It increases vitality and aids tissue regeneration. Amber is ideal for cleansing and reactivating the chakras, particularly the Sacral and Solar Plexus Chakras, and is an excellent tool for clearing the environment in which it rests. It emits a bright, soothing energy conducive to health and well-being, and is marvelous for convalescence, ameliorating depression, or working through the grieving process. Amber also provides a protective shield against negative energies and may be called upon to remove toxicity from one’s life or relationships. [Melody, 107-108]Hall En, 79][101 Hall, 26][Ahsian, 24][Raphaell, 136-137]

Amber Uses and Purposes

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Amber is a protective stone for children and may be worn as a necklace, bracelet, sewn into an infant’s garment or placed in their environment to ward off negative energies and shield them from harm. It is also prized for energetically reducing teething pain, though it should never be placed in the mouth. It is highly beneficial when treating infants or children for the mother to wear the Amber first. [Megemont, 23][Fernie, 323][Eason, 82][Hall, 52]

Wear or carry Amber when recovering from an illness or injury to increase vitality and draw on one’s own essential strength and desire for wellness. Its vibration of life force brings warmth to the inner being and imparts more of this energy into the system. Amber may also be used to achieve longevity, and is a marvelous gem for the elderly. [Simmons, 24]

As a love crystal, golden-orange Amber is a symbol of beauty and tenderness, a good-luck talisman for increasing natural radiance and attracting lasting love. It may be used to call in a twin soul, or for protection against negative outside influences and interference. It is a wonderful gem for assuring promises and has been used in the renewal of marriage vows. [Eason, 43, 82][Lecouteux, 312][Melody, 107]

Believed to “electrify” desire, Amber is credited with helping to cure impotence and frigidity, and to aid female fertility and male potency. [Megemont, 23][Eason, 82]

Amber is an exceptional rubbing stone for discharging negative moods, relieving anxiety, or deflecting energy from others. It warms the more it is touched and generates a positive, uplifting current of energy. Carry in the pocket, wear in jewelry, or use in rosary or prayer beads. [Mella 72][Lembo, 61][Megemont, 22-23]

Use Amber to purify any environment before use, or to remove negative energy by placing pieces of Amber around the space, spray as an elixir, or burn as incense. It also provides an effective screen after the area has been cleansed. For healers who work with removing entities from one’s energy field, Amber can be a valuable ally for sealing the aura after extraction and clearing any lingering negative patterns. Amber assists those who are new to exploring their psychic sensitivity by providing a Light barrier against negative forces until they are able to control their intuitive skills. [Melody, 108][Ahsian, 25][101 Hall, 26]

Amber Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

The gold and orange shades of Amber stimulate the Navel or Sacral Chakra, located below the naval and above the pubic bone at the front of the pelvis. It controls the flow of energy and is the center of gravity of the body. It is the center of the Life Force of the body, and controls the flow of information from the body to the mind and from the mind to the body. Gut feelings, intuition, and other "non-linear" communication comes from this chakra. When it is out of balance the symptoms manifest themselves as confusion, over dependency on others, repression of feelings, inability to feel joy, fear of sensuality or sex, and frustration. Gold or orange crystals are used to unblock the energy flow and restore one’s sense of balance, understanding and appreciation of life. When the Sacral Chakra is in balance one has grace, feels pleasure in life, and experiences the flexibility to "go with the flow" and do so in good spirit.

The yellow hues within Amber activate the Solar Plexus Chakra, the energy distribution center and the chakra of relationships. This chakra is located between the ribcage and navel, and controls the immune and digestive systems. When physically balanced, it provides the strength to fight infections, frees one of allergic reactions, and utilizes nutrients ingested. If the Solar Plexus is spiritually imbalanced, one may feel fear - of the disappointment or displeasure of others, or to subordinating one’s life and pleasures to the will of others. Yellow crystals spiritually balance the Solar Plexus, freeing one to interpret the world through one’s own thoughts and emotions and not live in fear of violating the dictums of others.

Amber Goddess Crystals

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Amber honors Elektra (Electra), the Greek Goddess of Sea Clouds and Storm Clouds that form at the top of island mountains. She is powerful and life giving, bringing vital water to the high mountain dwellers along the seacoast.

Amber honors Jurate, the Lithuanian Goddess of the Sea, known for her Amber palace beneath the Baltic Sea and her story of tragic love. She inspires bravery and courage for those who risk everything for love.

Amber honors Amberella, the Lithuanian Goddess of the Oceans, who left home and family to join her prince under the sea. She teaches one follow to follow their heart even in the toughest of decisions.

Amber may be used to honor Freyja (Freya), the Norse Goddess of Beauty and Love, depicted as being driven in a chariot pulled by two black cats. She is responsible for the souls of warriors who die in battle and reunites them with their wives after death.

Amber is also associated with Sekhmet, the Egyptian Goddess of War. She is the most powerful goddess of Lower Egypt, and is usually depicted with the head of a lion and the body of a beautiful woman.

Amber may be used in devotions to Nehalennia, the Gaulish Goddess of Sea Travelers; and Oshun, the African Goddess of Love, Intimacy, Beauty and Diplomacy.

Crystals of gold honor Persephone, the Greek Goddess of Spring. She represents celebration and the Earth alive with new growth.

Lapis Lazuli

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Lapis Lazuli is one of the most sought after stones in use since man's history began. Its deep, celestial blue remains the symbol of royalty and honor, gods and power, spirit and vision. It is a universal symbol of wisdom and truth.

In ancient times Lapis Lazuli was most highly regarded because of its beautiful color and the valuable ultramarine dye derived from it. Its name comes from the Latin lapis, "stone," and the Persian lazhuward, "blue." It is rock formed by multiple minerals, mostly Lazurite, Sodalite, Calcite and Pyrite, and is a rich medium to royal blue with gold flecks (pyrites). Lower-grade Lapis is lighter blue with more white than gold flecks, and is sometimes called denim Lapis.

Lapis Lazuli was among the most highly prized tribute paid to Egypt, obtained from the oldest mines in the world, worked from around 4000 B.C. and still in use today. Referenced in the Old Testament as sapphire (unknown in that part of the ancient world), Lapis Lazuli is most likely the fifth stone in the original breastplate of the High Priest, as well as those of later times. [Kunz, 293-294]

Lapis Lazuli Uses and Purposes - Overview

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Lapis is an excellent stone for executives, journalists, and psychologists, stimulating wisdom and good judgment in the practical world. It aids intellectual analysis in archeologists and historians, problem solving for lawyers, and creates new ideas for inventors and writers. [Mella, 129-133]

Lapis Lazuli is a powerful crystal for activating the higher mind and enhancing intellectual ability. It stimulates the desire for knowledge, truth and understanding, and aids the process of learning. It is excellent for enhancing memory. [Simmons, 227][Ahsian, 228]

A stone of truth, Lapis encourages honesty of the spirit, and in the spoken and written word. Wear it for all forms of deep communication. It is also a stone of friendship and brings harmony in relationships. A Lapis grid brings calm and loving communication for a home with temperamental teenagers, or children with Asperger's syndrome, autism, or attention-deficit disorder. [Eason, 40, 223]

For fame in a creative or public performance-related area, wear or carry Lapis Lazuli to auditions. In the workplace, it attracts promotion, success and lasting recognition in your field. [Eason, 41,223]

Lapis Lazuli Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Lapis Lazuli activates the psychic centers at the Third Eye, and balances the energies of the Throat Chakra.

The Brow Chakra, also called the Third Eye, is the center of our perception and command. It directs our sight and everyday awareness of the world. Our consciousness is located here, and we relate to ourselves through this chakra.

It balances the important and the unimportant, sorting meaning from data and impressions. It commands the energy flow within the body. When the brow chakra is in balance we see clearly and understand what we see. We can interpret visual cues and our perception is high. Our thoughts and internal communications within ourselves are healthy and vibrant. We are open to new ideas, dreams, and visions. We can be quietly observant, and reflective. We can control the flow of energy within all the chakras.Lapis Lazuli

The Throat Chakra is the voice of the body, a pressure valve that allows the energy from the other chakras to be expressed. If it is blocked or out of balance, it can affect the health of the other chakras. In balance, it allows for the expression of what we think and what we feel. We can communicate our ideas, beliefs, and emotions. When the throat chakra is in balance and open, we can bring our personal truth out into the world. We have an easy flow of energy within the body and spirit. The energy that springs upward from the lower chakras can continue its path enabling free expression and natural release. Blue crystal energy will unblock and balance the throat chakra. The darker shades of blue carry the power of truth.

Lapis Lazuli Goddess Crystals

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Lapis Lazuli honors Athena, the Greek Goddess of War and Wisdom. She is always depicted in armor and is known as a skilled fighter and strategist, and for her superb logic and intellect.

Lapis Lazuli honors Hera, the Greek Goddess of Marriage, and the Queen of all Gods and Goddesses on Mt Olympus. She is a source of inspiration for wives and lovers, and for standing up for what is right.

Lapis Lazuli honors Inanna, the Sumerian Goddess of the Underworld. She journeys into the underworld carrying her Lapis Lazuli rods and measures time and the length of a person's life.

Lapis Lazuli honors Nuit, the Egyptian Goddess of Heaven and Sky. She swallows the sun each evening, and gives birth to it again each morning. She is the protector and mother of life on Earth.

Lapis Lazuli honors Venus, the Roman Goddess of Love (also called Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty). She was one of twelve Olympians who governed all aspects of human life, and is known for her beauty and passion.

Lapis Lazuli is also used in devotions to Dana (Danu), the Celtic River Goddess.

Labradorite

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Lore of the Inuit peoples claim Labradorite fell from the frozen fire of the Aurora Borealis, an ordinary stone that transforms to the extraordinary, shimmering in a mystical light that separates the waking world from unseen realms. It is, in every sense, a Stone of Magic, a crystal of shamans, diviners, healers, and all who travel and embrace the universe seeking knowledge and guidance. For self-discovery, it is excellent for awakening one's own awareness of inner spirit, intuition and psychic abilities.

Labradorite is also the most powerful protector of the mineral kingdom, creating a shielding force throughout the aura and strengthening natural energies from within. It protects against the negativity and misfortunes of this world, and provides safe exploration into alternate levels of consciousness and in facilitating visionary experiences from the past or the future. [Ahsian, 226]

Labradorite is a member of the Feldspar family and is treasured for its remarkable play of color, known as labradorescence. The stone, usually gray-green, dark gray, black or grayish-white, is composed in aggregate layers that refract light as iridescent flashes of peacock blue, gold, pale green, or coppery red. The predominant blue varies within the light, displaying hues from deepest blue to various shades of pale, almost blue-green. It was discovered in Labrador, Canada, by Moravian missionaries in 1770 who named it for the area. It is, however, referenced in legends by older Inuit tribes, and was known to be in use by the Boethuk peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador. It became a popular gem in Europe in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. [Simmons, 225][Eason, 163][Melody, 367]

Rarer varieties of Labradorite include Golden Labradorite, a transparent gold or champagne-color, and Spectrolite, an intense variety displaying the entire color spectrum, discovered in Finland in the 1940s.

Labradorite Uses and Purposes - Overview

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Wearing or carrying Labradorite allows one's innate magical powers to surface. It enhances the mental and intuitive abilities of clairvoyance, telepathy, prophecy and coincidence control, and assists in communication with higher guides and spirits in accessing Akashic records, psychic readings and past-life recall. It provides an ease in moving between the worlds, and permits a safe and grounded return to the present. [Simmons, 225]

As a workplace stone, Labradorite brings out the best in people, making work life more congenial. It encourages courtesy and full attention to the customer, and assists part-time and temporary staff in becoming fully involved in a company. [Eason, 163]

Labradorite tempers the negative side of our personality, the traits and actions that rob our energy and may produce depression or shame. It assists in reducing anti-social, reckless or impulsive behavior in children, teenagers and adults who are easily led into trouble by others, and may aid in detoxifying the effects of tobacco, alcohol, and to a lesser degree, hard drugs. [Megemont, 109][Eason, 163]

Labradorite helps develop the hands' sensitivity, making it useful for physiotherapists and all who use the power of touch to heal. [Megemont, 109]

Labradorite Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Labradorite radiates a predominant blue crystal energy that stimulates the Throat Chakra, the voice of the body. It is, in essence, a pressure valve that allows the energy from the other chakras to be expressed. If it is blocked, or out of balance, it can affect the health of the other chakras. When the throat chakra is in balance and open, it allows for the expression of what we think and what we feel. We can communicate our ideas, beliefs, and emotions, bringing our personal truth out into the world. We have an easy flow of energy within the body and spirit. The energy that springs upward from the lower chakras can continue its path enabling free expression and natural release. Darker shades of blue encourage the power of truth, while lighter shades carry the power of flexibility, relaxation, and balance. Labradorite, with its iridescent flashes of color, can be very beneficial in uniting all of the chakras.

Golden Labradorite assists in opening the lower chakras during ritual or magical practices, while Spectrolite works with one's "Rainbow Body" to enhance awareness of the higher realms. [Simmons, 226]

Labradorite Goddess Crystals

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Labradorite honors Arianrhod, the Welsh Goddess of the Moon and Stars. Her home is the Aurora Borealis, the place where souls go when their body dies and waits to be born once again. She is also a goddess of prophecy and dream.

Labradorite may also be used to honor Cerridwen, the Welsh Goddess of Inspiration and Knowledge. She rules the gifts of prophecy and magic, and powers death and rebirth. She is the guardian of spiritual transformation.

Onyx

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

The noble Onyx is a most ancient stone, known and utilized by even the earliest civilizations for its powerful energy and somber beauty. This deep black stone ribboned with white was highly prized for use in ceremonies and burials, scrying and magical work, and as amulets on swords, shields and armor to protect and strengthen warriors in battle. Many cultures, including the Greeks and Romans, utilized Onyx and its counterpart, the brownish-red Sardonyx, to carve figures of the gods and heroes in cameos and intaglio engravings, to make stamps and seals, stone inlays and tiles, and as handles and bases for goldwork. Onyx is referenced in numerous historical manuscripts and sacred texts, and is the first precious stone named in the Bible, described in Genesis as an element of creation. It resided with gold and the fragrant resin bdellium in the land of Havilah, an area surrounded by the Pishon River that flowed from the garden of Eden. [en.wikipedia.org][Fernie, 179, 314][Genesis 2:10-12][Ahsian, 289]

While Onyx was revered in many cultures, it was feared in others, considered to be “a bad luck stone” that caused black bile to circulate, especially within the mind. It was believed to invoke sadness and despondency, abrupt changes in mood, and make one angry and difficult. It could separate lovers, sow family discord, and expose one to the assaults of demons, bringing dreadful visions by night, quarrels and lawsuits by day. It was so feared in China, only slaves and menial laborers with no other way to make a living would go into the mines to extract it, where it was then carried out of the country and sold in other lands. The only preventative to these calamities was to also wear a Sard stone, most notably a Sardonyx, to neutralize the influence of the Onyx. [Megemont, 138][Lecouteux, 241-242][Fernie, 314][Kunz, 159-160]

Over the centuries, metaphysical practitioners have come to appreciate the contradictory powers of Onyx and have learned to harness even its negative traits to achieve positive results. It integrates dualities within the Self, and is perhaps the best talisman of Strength and Self-mastery on the planet. This stone connects to the body, to belonging to the earth and family, and putting down roots. It is grounding and stable, taking aggressive energies and using them to build up physical and mental strength, persistence and endurance, helping one to be master of one’s own destiny and to keep one’s own counsel. Yet Onyx also provides the centering and alignment of one’s total being in order to connect to a Higher power for guidance, and absorb from the universe that which is needed. Onyx is reputed to hold physical memories of the wearer within its structure and, if worn too long, can generate depression or re-living the pain of old injury or trauma. However, with work and proper intent, it can be called upon to banish grief and release pain from physical or emotional wounds, and to draw in happiness and good fortune. It is a marvelous stone for wise decision-making and amplifying intuitive gifts, especially instinctual sentience. [Megemont, 138][Melody, 451-452][Hall, 206-207][Simmons, Ahsian, 288-289]

Onyx is a black and white banded variety of Chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of Quartz with dense, fibrous layers and a hardness of 7. It is also defined as a black and white banded Agate, also a variety of Chalcedony. They differ only in that Onyx’s alternating layers are parallel to one another while Agate’s layers are curved and more chaotic. While many think of Onyx as a solid black stone, the term refers to the Chalcedony banded black and white. A variant form in which white layers of Onyx alternate with Sard (a reddish-brown Chalcedony) is called Sardonyx. Both have been known and utilized for over 4,000 years for hardstone carving, stone inlay, and jewelry, treasured most for their use in intaglio seals and cameo engraved gems where the white bands are carved away to make the image contrast with the dark background. In some specimens black Onyx may be layered with Sard, and in many cases material may be a combination of all three. [www.mindat.org][en.wikipedia.org][Fernie, 314][www.gemselect.com]

References to Onyx and other closely related stones are found in many ancient cultures and their texts, including the Bible, at times with conflicting definitions and an overlap in terminology. The following is meant to help clarify their meanings and provide additional information:

Onyx 

a layered Chalcedony with black and white parallel bands, or a wide band of solid black. Reputed to be the eleventh, or Shoham stone in the breastplate of the High Priest inscribed with the tribal name of Gad. Onyx comes from the Latin and Greek words meaning “claw” or “fingernail” for its resemblance to the human nail, and is referred to by the Arabic term el jaza meaning “sadness.”

Sardonyx 

an Onyx with a reddish-brown base where white bands of Onyx alternate with Sard. The name may have been derived from ancient Sardis, or the Greek word Sarx meaning “flesh.” Also called Sardinius in antiquity. Some scholars say this stone could be the first in the breastplate of the Hebrew High Priest, though most agree it was the Sard.

Sard 
not Onyx, but dark-hued Carnelian, a translucent brown Chalcedony with red to orange overtones. Also called Sardius in the ancient world, designated as the first, or Odem stone in the breastplate of the High Priest inscribed with the tribe of Reuben. Sard was regarded as a protection against incantations and sorcery, used to sharpen the wits, and made one fearless, victorious, and happy. Sard stones, including Sardonyx, were often worn with an Onyx to neutralize the latter’s negative influences.

Chalcedonyx or Banded Onyx 

Chalcedony with stripes of white Onyx where the layers are banded opaque and translucent, usually white with streaks of black, gray, brown or cream. White banded Onyx is often found as broad bands with black Onyx. [Fernie, 179, 313-314][Kunz, 107, 159, 276, 290-291, 298-299][Eason, 151]

Artificial treatments to enhance the color of Onyx, or to produce artificial Onyx from Chalcedony and Agates, have been around since ancient Egyptian times and are still in use today. The 1st century naturalist, Pliny the Elder, claimed all gems are brightened if boiled in honey, and wrote about techniques that were being used in Roman times. To produce black or other colors, the stone was first soaked or boiled in sugar solutions, then treated with sulfuric or hydrochloric acid to carbonize the sugars absorbed in the porous layers. This greatly heightened the contrast between the white and black, or brown, layers of the stone. Dye techniques, as well as heat treatments with nitric acid, have become an accepted practice and most of the “Black Onyx” sold on the current market today is dyed gray Onyx or artificially treated Chalcedony. These treatments are not considered to hinder the stone’s natural powers. [Fernie, 315][en.wikipedia.org][www.mindat.org][Simmons, 288][www.minerals.net]

Onyx Uses and Purposes

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Wear or carry Onyx as a personal amulet of protection to keep senses keen and instincts sharp, whether traversing a desolate street at night, fighting fears associated with bullying or terrorism, or as a protective shield during psychic endeavors. Place an Onyx in the workplace to deflect others’ negative thoughts or criticism, and for effective defense against those who are manipulative or argumentative. Rest an Onyx on a nightstand with the intent of protection against nightmares and fears associated with the dark. Sardonyx may be used to grid around one’s home or garden, or apartment building in urban areas, to prevent crime. [Eason, 42, 199][Melody, 451][Lembo, 242-243][www.jewelsforme.com][Hall, 256, 374]

Draw on Onyx for physical strength after a long illness, prolonged work project, demanding exercise or weight loss program, or any situation that depletes one’s resources. It aids the retention of energies rather than allowing them to dissipate, enabling one to build up vigor and vitality, stamina, and focus. Onyx boosts self-confidence and assertion while bringing reason to passion, and is an excellent stone to carry into conflict situations where a cool head is needed. [Simmons, 288][Hall, 206-207][Gienger, 63]

Onyx is an excellent stone for stimulating intuitive powers and furthers the quality of sentience. It is highly effective for magical work, such as scrying, and because it retains memories of its wearer, is an excellent stone for psychometry, holding an object for a reading. Onyx is particularly empowering for those working to develop their telekinetic abilities. White Onyx can enhance spiritual vision and dream experiences, and facilitate connection with lunar energies. [Melody, 451][Lembo, 242][Hall, 207][Hall En, 219][Ahsian, 288-289]

Sardonyx is a “stone of virtue” and stimulates honesty and strength of character, as well as bringing lasting happiness and stability to marriage and partnerships. Use it in the search for a meaningful existence, and to attract friendships and good fortune based on good moral ethics.[Gienger, 77][Melody, 590][Hall, 256-257][Hall En, 204][Lembo, 310-311]

Onyx Chakra Healing and Balancing Energy

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

The black and reddish-brown hues of Onyx and Sardonyx stimulate the Earthstar and Base Chakras. The Earthstar Chakra is located between and slightly below the feet. It holds the soul into carnation and creates a solid connection to the planet Earth, allowing excess and out-of-balance energies to flow from the body. The Base, or Root Chakra, is located at the base of the spine, and controls the energy for kinesthetic feeling and movement. It is the foundation of physical and spiritual energy for the body. When the Base Chakra is in balance, the physical body gains strength and stamina, and spiritual energy is rekindled in the form of security and sense of one’s own power. It often leads to independence and spontaneous leadership.

White Onyx activates the Crown Chakra, located at the top of the head. It is the gateway to the expanded universe beyond one’s body, and controls how one thinks and responds to the world. It is the fountainhead of one’s beliefs and the source of spirituality, and when the Crown is in balance one’s energies are in balance. It inspires one’s place in the universe and to see things as they are.

Onyx Goddess Crystals

The following from https://www.crystalvaults.com/

Onyx honors Hecate, the Thracian Goddess of Wisdom, Crossroads and Ghosts. She is also Goddess of the Occult and the Dark Moon, the side we are unable to see. She has power over heaven, earth and the underworld.

Onyx honors Bean Sidhe, the Irish Fairy of Mourning, and Manat, the Arabian Goddess of Time, Destiny and Death. She is honored because time brings us all a transition we call death, but in life she can bring a world filled with magic, wisdom and protection.

Onyx honors Cybele, the Roman Earth Mother and Goddess of Wild Animals. She was originally Phrygian, the Goddess of Caverns because they are dark and hidden. She embodies the fertile Earth. Her festival is the first on the Roman calendar, the Festival of Joy.

Onyx honors Themis, the Greek Goddess of Justice and Order. She is known as the Divine voice who instructed mankind in essential laws, rules of friendliness and good governance. She is also known for her tokens of shields and defenses.