Tag: Transparency and translucency

Crystal Lattice Patterns

Cubic

A cube-shaped lattice. Most crystals  of this type consist of a number of interpenetrating cubes, rather than single cubes. Examples: garnet, pyrite, sodalite, diamond, halite, fluorite and copper. Qualities: releasing tension and encouraging creativity

Tetragonal

This lattice is shaped like two pyramids joined base to base, with elongated upper and lower points. Examples: apophyllite pyramid, zircon, rutile and chalcopyrite Qualities: balancing and harmonizing

Orthorhombic

Shaped like a small squashed matchbox, with all sides unequal in length. Examples: danburite blade, peridot, topaz and celestite. Qualities: linking, aiding, the flow of information.

Trigonal

This lattice is shaped like a diamond or a barrel-shaped lozenge. Examples: sapphire, alpha quartz, tourmaline and ruby. Qualities: energizing and anchoring

Monoclinic

Shaped like an elongated squashed matchbox. Examples: selenite wand and kunzite Qualities: affects movement and perception.

Hexagonal

Shaped like a hexagonal prism. Examples: aquamarine, beta quartz, emerald and apatite. Qualities: organizing and supporting.

Triclinic

This lattice is the most variable, having no set angles or lengths. Examples: kyanite blade, labradorite and ulexite Qualities:  opening and protective.

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Crystal of the Day for July 6th is Kunzite

Crystal of the Day

Kunzite

This beautiful pink crystal, named after the American gemstone specialist G. F. Kunz, who discovered it at the start of the 20th century, is the most sought after member of the spodumene family (to which the delicate green hiddenite also belongs). It forms long, striated prisms which can be opaque but are often deeply translucent or completely transparent. Kunzite’s colour from a side view is pale, but looking down the length of the crystal, it deepens to an appealing pinky violet. Occasionally, spodumene crystals will contain areas of pink and green together.

Identification and care

  • Kunzite crystals contain parallel striations.

  • Stones darken in colour once mined.

Magic

  • Strengthens the heart and attunes us to universal love

  • Counteracts aggression

  • Helps us to understand other people

  • Bring conflict to a resolution

Healing Functions

  • Supports the cardiovascular system and thyroid function

  • Enhances self-esteem

  • Helps to override negative, unhelpful thought patterns – very protective

  • Creates a space for meditation

Practical Ideas

  • To heal and protect where love is lacking place kunzite at the heart and arrange four clear quartz, points outward, in a diamond shape around the body.

  • Wear a pendant of kunzite or hiddenite to provide yourself with invaluable protection during difficult emotional times.