Apatite
Properties of apatite
Apatite is a stone of variable composition. It is primarily a generic term used to describe several types of hexagonal phosphates. Gem-quality apatite is a fine stone that exhibits a wide range of colors. This characteristic is often the source of confusion with other stones. The variety of colors in apatite is mainly due to the presence of more or less rare elements during its formation. Apatite can be colorless, red, juvenile, blue, green, reddish-brown, and more. It has a hexagonal crystal system and imperfect cleavage. Apatite has a vitreous luster and a white streak. The stone's density ranges from 3.16 to 3.2, and its hardness is 5 on the Mohs scale.
Gem-quality apatites are relatively rare. Their most notable deposits are found primarily in Canada, the United States, Brazil, Portugal, France, Pakistan, and other countries.
Discover our "Ocean" bracelet of Blue Jasper and Apatite – Serenity and Marine Energy
History of Apatite
As mentioned earlier, the variable chemical composition of apatite was a source of confusion for the ancients. It wasn't until the late 18th century that the stone's exact composition was established. It was precisely because of these uncertainties surrounding the nature of apatite that the German mineralogist Abraham Gottlob Werner named it in 1786. The term comes from the ancient Greek word "Apatan," which literally means to deceive. Furthermore, this name is reminiscent of the Greek goddess of deception and fraud, Apaté. According to legend, this deity is one of the evils unleashed upon the earth by Pandora when she opened her famous box.
Apatite, as a mineral, is a source of phosphorus, widely used in the chemical industry. Therefore, it is often used in the composition of artificial fertilizers. Gem-quality apatite is used in the jewelry industry and is cut into faceted stones or cabochons that highlight its splendid colors.
Benefits of apatite
On a physical level, lithotherapy recognizes several beneficial properties of apatite. The stone's chemical composition makes it a natural support for the strength and repair of bones, teeth, and joints. Apatite is also indicated for treating arthritis, osteoarthritis, and all joint inflammations. The stone is also recommended for balancing kidney function and correcting bladder problems. Apatite's regulatory properties are said to be beneficial for cell renewal, limiting uncontrolled cell proliferation. The stone is also indicated in weight-loss diets to help maintain mental balance and control hormonal secretions, thus preventing emotional outbursts.
On a psychic and spiritual level, apatite is known for its balancing properties. People prone to emotional excesses can find calm, serenity, and objective, logical reflection through its gentle application. A stone of creativity, it is well-suited to artists and craftspeople seeking inspiration. Apatite facilitates meditation and introspection, allowing for deeper self-awareness and the identification of internal sources of problems affecting both body and mind. The stone is also an excellent support for confronting buried fears and shyness. It helps those who need confidence to regain the strength to face the dangers and challenges of daily life.
Discover our 7 chakra bracelet in Tiger's Eye
Apatite's preferred chakras are the Third Eye chakras, as the stone is known to develop and strengthen psychic power and make the person more receptive to visions and premonitions. The solar plexus chakra also benefits from apatite's beneficial effects.
Apatite is especially favorable for the astrological signs of Gemini, Libra, and Sagittarius.
Apatite is primarily purified by immersing the stone in distilled water; no additional salts or cleaning products are needed. Recharging is achieved through exposure to gentle daylight.
