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Heliotrope:
Tectosilicates (A variety of quartz often with some iron and aluminum) SiO2 AKA: Chalcedony, Bloodstone |
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System: None; chalcedony is a microcrystalline variety of quartz. Appearance: Bright to dark green with spots of red. Dull waxy to vitreous luster depending on granularity and the variety; streak white Physical Properties: Hardness: (7); Specific gravity: (2.6 - 2.64). Cleavage: None. Smooth conchoidal fracture; transparent when colorless, otherwise translucent to opaque as colors get darker; fracture, brittle to tough; sometimes weakly fluorescent. Similar species: Very few minerals are confused with chalcedony. Occurrence: Chalcedony is formed in several environments, generally near the surface of the earth where temperatures and pressures are relatively low. It commonly forms in the zone of alteration of lode and massive hydrothermal replacement deposits and as bodies of chert in chemical sedimentary rocks. Heliotrope can be found in India and Germany. Miscellaneous: Heliotrope is the birthstone for March. Heliotrope is opaque green with red markings, like drops of blood (hence called "bloodstone"). The red spots are caused by iron oxides. Most chalcedonies develop as a microcrystalline precipitate from aqueous solutions or as dehydration products of opal, in low-temperature environments. Conventional Wisdom: Christian tradition held sometimes that the stone had been spotted by the blood of Jesus at his crucifixion, at other times that its spots were caused by the blood of Saint Stephen. It was often nicknamed "Saint Stephen's stone". The Leyden Papyrus declared that "the world has no greater thing" than bloodstone; it opens all doors for it owner, breaks down the walls of prisons, and averts many disasters. In addition to its various associations with blood, the bloodstone was traditionally credited with an ability to make its wearer invisible. Heliotrope is a good meditation stone. It can suggest correlations between the red lifeblood of animals and the nurturing powers of the green plant world. Classic for wealth, menstrual cramps, anemia, blood clots, hemorrhoids, birthing/reproductivity, imbalance. Also used for cleansing the heart and blood circulation, marrow, thymus and lungs. It is believed that heliotrope will help to overcome depression and melancholia - especially if it is worn by the sufferer. It is also said to help those who suffer from psychosomatic illness and pains which have an emotional rather than a physical cause. Heliotrope is also a purifier of the blood and a general detoxification of organs, particularly the liver, kidneys and spleen. It helps to allow light into the body. Provides vitality, strengthens idealism and the will to do good - especially for charity. Increases one's talent, stimulates the kundalini and balances all of the chakras. Belongs to the Astrological Signs of Aries, Pisces and Libra. |