From the belly of the Earth comes an amazing variety of rocks, crystals, and minerals each possessing unique properties. Some sparkle with countless colors, some exhibit strange shapes, and some produce their own electromagnetic fields. For millennia, human societies from around the globe have valued certain gems for their surpassing beauty. Of course, these stones can do more than add a little sparkle to the wardrobe. Their mystical powers influence their wearer’s body, mind, and spirit.
Because crystals and other mineral tools form such a mainstay of magic, you may already have a selection of them. Those of you interested in healing, divination, or other specific applications probably own some of the basic points or perhaps tumbled stones suited to your field. So, what if you’re thinking, “I already have a bagful of rose quartz, bloodstone, and all the regular stuff. Got anything special?” What if you have a specific complaint like, “Which stones are best for preventing nightmares?”
This class takes a look at some of the common and less-common magical stones and tools, and their uses. I’m a casual rockhound myself, an experienced stone mage, and an avid collector of magical jewelry. Join me on a little tour of the gem world to see what these wonders of nature can do for you...
Class objectives: 1) Explore the applications of stone magic. 2) Learn what effects the shape of a stone can have on its powers. 3) Learn what effects the metal and setting can have on a jewel. 4) Study the symbolism of magical stones. 5) Learn how to acquire magical stones and related items. 6) Study some magical stones and their properties.
Definitions:
Crystal – A solid whose atoms, molecules, or ions form a regular and repeating pattern which extends in all three spatial dimensions. In this class “crystal” refers to a natural or carved crystal which is large enough to use by itself, such as a quartz point or garnet nodule. It may be individual, part of a cluster, or embedded in matrix rock.
Gem – A pearl or mineral which has been cut and polished for use as an ornament. In this class, “gem” also includes other shaped objects, such as a crystal ball or pyramid for altar use.
Jewel – A precious or semiprecious stone incorporated into a piece of jewelry; something valued for its beauty and perfection.
Mineral – A naturally-occurring inorganic substance, with a definite and predictable chemical composition and physical properties
Rock – A mass of solid mineral matter. In this class, “rock” refers to those types which are not precious or semiprecious; ordinary rocks can be useful in magic too.
Rockhound – Someone who loves stones and minerals; most rockhounds collect stones, and many make jewelry or other items.
Stone – An ordinary, semiprecious, or precious mass of solid mineral matter. In this class “stone” is the generic term for all magical objects of mineral type.