Chalcedony
Properties of chalcedony
Chalcedony is more of a rock than a strictly defined mineral. Its composition is unique, consisting of a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz, with minute crystals arranged in fibers within the rock. Chalcedony, whose chemical formula is SiO2, frequently contains traces of moganite. It has a trigonal crystal system with irregular fracture. It often occurs in massive or stalactite form. It has a luster ranging from dull to silky, a density of 2.6, and a hardness of approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
Chalcedony is generally milky white to tinged gray, sometimes turning white, blue, or green. The inclusion of other metals and chemical elements such as iron or nickel can alter its color, giving the stone a wide range of hues. Onyx, agate, carnelian, jasper, and other gems and semiprecious stones are subspecies belonging to the chalcedony family. Jewelers identify chalcedony as a monochrome, translucent stone that is white or bluish-white. Even with its low porosity, chalcedony can be dyed (a common practice in jewelry making) to intensify its color.
Chalcedony is produced in several countries, including Brazil, the United States, Canada, Belgium, France, Italy, and Algeria.
History of Chalcedon
The word chalcedony derives from the name of a city in Asia Minor: Chalcedon, or Khalkedon in ancient Greek. The stone has been highly valued and sought after since antiquity. The ancient Egyptians carved it into scarab beetle figures. Serving as sacred amulets, the stone was believed to help the dead pass the test of judgment in the afterlife.
Among the Romans, chalcedony was a highly prized ornamental stone. It was often used to make jewelry and casts, not to mention its use in crafting magical amulets. Among the Babylonians, chalcedony was used to create cylinder seals. The Old Testament also mentions chalcedony as one of the stones inlaid in Aaron's armor, and it is even, according to the Bible, the stone associated with the apostle Andrew. In almost every major culture, chalcedony has been attributed with extraordinary powers. It has also frequently been associated with major deities in various ancient pantheons.
Benefits of chalcedony
Considered one of the softest stones in lithotherapy, chalcedony is said to have calming properties, bringing tranquility and relief where negativity and excess once reigned. On a physical level, chalcedony is believed to be beneficial for treating throat and larynx disorders. The thyroid and hormonal glands are also said to benefit from the stone's action, especially in regulating hormone secretions. Chalcedony is particularly recommended for breastfeeding mothers, as it stimulates lactation. Women experiencing difficult menopause may also find relief by keeping a chalcedony stone close at hand.
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On a psychological level, chalcedony is a perfect bulwark against negative feelings and thoughts. It would be ideal to replace everything that negatively affects the body and mind with feelings of calm and openness, both relationally and spiritually. Chalcedony fosters the development of both body and mind. Some people even call it a stone of happiness.
On a karmic level, chalcedony acts on the throat chakra, facilitating diction and alleviating speech problems and stuttering. Ideal for public speaking, it lends courage to its wearer and clarity to their speech.
The most favorable astrological signs for chalcedony are Cancer, Gemini, and Sagittarius. In other colors, the stone may be suitable for other signs.
To purify chalcedony, some recommend placing it under running water for a few minutes once or twice a month. Others suggest soaking it in slightly salted distilled water. As for recharging the stone, sunlight is ideal for this purpose.
