Superstitions and Crystals

Books written as far back as medieval times describe the medicinal and magical uses for gemstones and crystals. Even further back in time, between 1067 and 1081, the Bishop Marbode of Rennes, France wrote a 'Book of Stones' describing how God had filled gems with powers even greater than those in herbs. Indian Agate for instance was used to strengthen eye sight and Green Jasper thought to cure the fever and dropsy. Sapphires, it was believed, could dispel envy and terror when crushed and infused in milk!

Belief in the power of crystals go so far back as to be linked with tales of the lost continent of Atlantis. This ancient city was thought to enjoy free energy, long-distance communication and even air travel through harnessing the energy of crystals.

It was once believed that gems were dew drops, raindrops and even tear drops hardened by the sun. The most precious gems were thought to be those that came from India and Arabia because of the sun rising in the east and with the tropics being so hot.

The twelve tribes of Israel wore gems on their breastplate representing their tribe. These included Sardius, Topaz, Carbuncle, Emerald, Sapphire, Diamond, Jacinth, Agate, Amethyst, Beryl, Onyx and Jasper. Names of the tribes are thought to be associated with the gemstones given them.

The name of the tribe Dan, for instance, is 'judge' and the amethyst being their gemstone could signify 'judgement.' Asher, the name of the twelfth tribe is linked with the stone jasper, a stone believed to have powerful magic.

Crystals in ancient times were believed to have the power to heal, ward off evil spirits and protect in battle. In modern times superstitions about gems and crystals still flourish.

Many believe in their physical, emotional and spiritual healing powers. Amethyst encourages truth, creativity and confidence. it is used as a stone to help insomnia. Pearls promote success and spiritual transformation, Tiger Eye brings insight, Ruby helps improve the circulation and enhances passion.

Stones corresponding to the month of a birthday, given as a gift are thought to bring good luck. Traditionally gems associated with the month are:

* Garnet representing constancy for January

* Amethyst representing sincerity for February

* Bloodstone representing courage for March

* Diamond representing purity for April

* Emerald representing hope for May

* Pearl representing prosperity and success for June

* Ruby representing contentment for July

* Sardonyx representing fidelity for August

* Sapphire representing repentance for September

* Opal representing calmness for October

* Topaz representing cheerfulness for November

* Turquoise representing protection from harm for December

One method of divination or seeing into the future is called scrying and this is a technique dating back to the time of the ancient Egyptians. This involves staring at a reflective surface such as a crystal ball, entering a trance and seeing visions. A pool of water, mirror, polished metal and rock crystal are all other alternatives for scrying.

In Celtic times times, magicians would give precious stones to public speakers to help them communicate more eloquently. While St Frances de Sales believed that all precious stones could be made more brilliant if they were cast in honey and wearing these stones would make a person more 'acceptable in their vocation.'

According to superstition an engagement ring containing pearls will bring tears to the marriage. It was believed that if you touched a sparring couple with a ring made out of silver with a stone set in, they would be reconciled.

Ancients also believed that precious stones held the imprisoned souls of people who had in some way incurred the wrath of the gods. It was once believed that gold and silver could deflect evil. Children of the rich would be given amulets of these precious metals and although attracting robbers, the superstitious belief that gold and silver would protect them was stronger than the fear of robbery.