Rhodonite

This mineral can often be found with black inclusions amongst the pink (related to the heart). Helps one express oneself confidently and lovingly. Calms the soul and helps reduce stress, comforts heartache and loss. Protects against the effects of nightmares. Historically speaking, believed to help with speech and hearing problems.

Rose Quartz

This is a very popular healing stone, with a warm soft pink colour, principally representing love, beauty, emotional balance, peace and contentment. A great stone for promoting creativity and expressing emotions. Physically, connected to the kidneys, heart and fertility.

Ruby in Zoisite

This is a wonderfully coloured stone. Zoisite contains long striated crystals - brown, blue, green or white. It is said to increase energy levels. Promotes reproductive health with increased fertility. This example is green and black with streaks of purple-red ruby through it. A pink variety with manganese is known as Thulite whilst a violet variety containing chromium and spontium is known as Tanzanite (which is becoming increasingly popular).

Sodalite

This gorgeous dark blue mineral is a less expensive alternative to Lapis Lazuli, but don’t think it is a “poor man’s substitute” - it looks wonderful in its own right! It is a stone of communication and offers protection against negative energies (a good stone to keep near your computer). It is a good balancer and is said to prevent insomnia and helps to soothe and draw out infections. Physically, said to be good for the neck, mouth, hearing and blood sugar levels.

Tiger’s Eye

This quartz based stone is composed of bands of golden brown colours. It’s similarity to a tiger’s eye gave it both its name and the belief that it is a strong amulet against the “evil eye”. Said to be good for both attracting wealth and retaining it. Key elements are healing, protectiveness and clarity of mind, enabling one to sort out one’s priorities in life.

Turquoise

This has long been a sacred stone to Native Americans, giving protection and longevity. It is said to be a powerful healer, particularly associated with heart and blood, sore throats, headaches, inflammation and infections. It is a soothing stone, easing stress and bringing courage to its wearer. Turquoise contains copper elements so is well complemented by coppery coloured beads; silver and turquoise are also a stunning combination.

Unakite

This stone consists of a wonderfully warm, glowing mix of greens and pinks. It is said to be beneficial to the reproductive system and will encourage a healthy pregnancy. It is a great balancer of the emotional and physical aspects of ourselves. Also believed to encourage one to be assertive. Works well in conjunction with other stones related to the heart.

More Amazing Agates .......

Agates come in a fabulous range of colours and effects. Here are two more that I have recently acquired -

Picture (pastel) Agate - this particular example has a palette of pinks with a streak of teal through it. Picture agates are believed to improve visualisation during meditation.

Tree Agate - the green inclusions against the white of this stone create a mossy effect. Tree agates are believed to help one see both the world and the individual with a greater clarity and understanding.