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Fish eye jasper

fish eye jasper specimen

Fish Eye Jasper belongs to the broader category of jasper, a form of chalcedony a type of quartz. The defining feature of Fish Eye Jasper lies in its intricate patterns, which resemble the eye of a fish or the ripples on the surface of water. These patterns are often concentric circles or orbs that create a sense of movement within the stone. The colours can be earthy greens and blues to browns and greys, mirroring ocean.

The stone is often associated with tranquility, balance, and the calming energy of water. Some believe that Fish Eye Jasper can aid in promoting a sense of flow and adaptability, much like the rhythmic movement of the tides.

It is also thought to help open and activate the Heart and Solar Plexus chakras and to help its user become aware of the flow of energy within the body.

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Shiva shell

Shiva shell specimen

Shiva Shell (AKA Shiva’s Eye or Pacific Cat’s Eye)  is a type of operculum (a protective lid) for some sea snail shells. The operculum of the Turbinidae family of marine gastropod molluscs is particularly cherished for its distinctive appearance. The Shiva Shell is characterised by its spiral shape, reminiscent of a conch, and often features a natural “eye” pattern on its surface.

In Hindu mythology, the conch is a sacred symbol associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Lord Vishnu is often depicted holding the conch, known as the Panchajanya, symbolizing the cosmic sound Aum. The conch is also associated with Lord Shiva, whose divine dance, the Tandava, is said to produce the celestial sound of the drum.

The Shiva Shell, with its natural eye-like pattern, is considered a representation of the third eye of Lord Shiva. This symbolism is deeply rooted in the belief that the shell carries the protective and transformative energy of Lord Shiva, making it a revered symbol in Hindu spirituality.

Shiva Shell is often associated with promoting intuition, insight, and spiritual awakening. In crystal healing, the Shiva Shell is thought to assist in balancing and aligning the chakras, enhancing psychic abilities, and fostering a deep connection with one’s spiritual self.

In some cultures, the shell is used as a protective amulet, believed to bring good fortune and shield the wearer from negative energies. The eye-like pattern is seen as a symbol of watchfulness, warding off evil and guiding the wearer on their spiritual journey.

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Serpentine

Serpentine specimen

Serpentine is a metamorphic rock formed primarily from the alteration of magnesium-rich rocks, such as peridotite and pyroxenite. The transformation occurs through a process known as serpentinization, involving the addition of water and the removal of silica. This process gives rise to the unique textures, colours, and patterns that distinguish serpentine from other rocks.

One of the most remarkable features of serpentine is its vast range of colours and patterns. The stone can display hues from green to black, often with intricate veining and mottling. The variations in colour and pattern contribute to its attractiveness, making it a popular choice for both ornamental and artistic purposes.

Several distinct varieties of serpentine exist;  antigorite is prized for its fibrous or chatoyant texture, while bowenite (aka New Jade) is valued for its translucent, apple-green appearance.

In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, serpentine was associated with protection, healing, and connection to the divine. It adorned amulets, jewellery, and ceremonial objects, symbolising the cyclical nature of life and regeneration.

Serpentine is linked to the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac and is believed to bring good luck, protection, and longevity. The stone’s association with snakes in various cultures further enhances its symbolic importance, representing transformation, rebirth, and healing.

Sculptors and artisans appreciate serpentines workability and it is often used for creating intricate carvings, beads, and decorative objects.

Serpentine is believed to possess healing properties as an aid in balancing emotions, promoting inner peace, and connecting with one’s spiritual self. It can also assist in overcoming challenges and encourage positive transformation.

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Septarian

\septarian specimen

Septarian stones typically originate as mud balls on the sea floor around 50 to 70 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. Over time, mineral-rich solutions infiltrate the mud, causing the formation of calcite crystals. As the process continues, the centre of the nodule may fill with other minerals such as aragonite, calcite, and barite, creating the distinctive patterns and fissures characteristic of septarian.

What sets septarian apart is its striking appearance. The nodules often exhibit a unique combination of yellow, brown, and grey hues, forming intricate patterns resembling a dragon’s skin or a cosmic puzzle. The cracks or fissures within the stone are known as “septaria,” which is where the name septarian is derived from the Latin word “septum,”. These septaria are the result of the contraction of the mud as it dried and cracked, providing a glimpse into the ancient geological processes that shaped the Earth.

In many cultures, septarian stones were considered protective talismans, believed to shield their owners from negative energies and promote harmony and balance.

In Native American folklore, septarian nodules were often associated with the spirits of the earth. Some tribes believed that these stones held the power to connect the physical and spiritual realms, serving as a conduit for communication with the divine. In other cultures, septarian stones were thought to possess healing properties, promoting physical and emotional well-being.

Many individuals believe that these stones can enhance communication skills, foster a sense of grounding, and facilitate spiritual growth. The minerals within septarian are believed to resonate with the root chakra various chakras, making them a popular choice for those seeking balance and alignment in their lives.

Septarian is regarded as a stone of emotional healing and harmony. Its unique combination of minerals is believed to have a calming effect on the emotional body, helping to soothe anxiety and stress. The stone is believed to facilitate emotional release and encourage a positive outlook, promoting inner peace and serenity.

Septarian is also associated with the throat chakra, the energy centre related to communication and self-expression. The stone is believed to empower individuals to communicate more effectively, both verbally and non-verbally. By clearing energetic blockages in the throat chakra, septarian is thought to promote honest self-expression, enhance interpersonal communication, and encourage the free flow of creativity.

Beyond its grounding and calming properties, septarian is often associated with spiritual growth and transformation. The stone is believed to assist individuals on their spiritual journey by enhancing intuition and connecting them to higher realms of consciousness.

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Leopard skin Jasper

leopard skin jasper

Leopard Skin Jasper (aka) Jaguar Stone is not a true Jasper,  it is actually a Rhyolite. known for its distinct pattern of brown and black spots which resemble the spots of a jaguar or leopard. Its distinctive colour and pattern are a result of its combination of iron and other sedimentary deposits that have been consolidated by volcanic eruptions. It is thought to help to clear away the negative emotions and energies that can be caused by stress and anxiety. It is also believed to help promote balance, harmony, and peace.

In ancient Greece and Rome, it was used as an amulet to protect its wearer from danger. It was also believed to bring courage and strength and was used to heal a variety of ailments.

The Sioux Indians believed this stone had magical powers and would use it to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. The Zuni Indians made jewellery out of leopard skin jasper while the Aztecs used it to ward off sickness and protect their homes.

Metaphysically, it has been believed to promote mental clarity and self-confidence, as well as to encourage feelings of happiness and relaxation. It is also believed to help with dream recall and enhance creative thinking. 

Leopard skin jasper is believed to represent protection from negative energies. It is said to give the wearer courage and strength and its grounding energy can help bring stability and balance.

It is believed to be a powerful energizer that helps to balance the chakras. It is known to bring stability and balance to the emotions and mental state. It is thought to be a healing stone helping to release negative energies and promote emotional healing.

Leopard Skin Jasper works on the Base chakra but also activates the Third Eye Chakra and the throat chakra. The secondary chakras are Heart and Crown Chakra that is triggered by the energies of the stone. The aligned and activated chakras stabilise the physical body as well as energise the overall torso.

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Leopardite

leopardite specimen

Leopardite is a form of Jasper and balances the emotions and enhances self worth and acceptance of others and oneself. It helps us take a good look at ourselves and others and not take criticism to heart. Leopardite has a peaceful energy and assists with emotional stress and with difficult situations.

Leopardite is also phosphorescent that when placed under UV light, it glows and emits a bright white light.

It is a stone for resolving problems and giving and receiving forgiveness, reducing guilt and fear from past mistakes. Leoparite also is believed to help diminish negative emotions such as hate, insecurity and anger.

Leopardite is a form of Jasper and will have the metaphysical properties Jasper, which is a stone of grounding, protection and warding off negativity. Like all jaspers it can help balance the emotional energy in the body. Jasper is known as the nurturing stone for its nurturing and protective energies.

Jasper may bring balance into your life and will help prevent burnout at work. It gives you the courage to speak out and have personal independence. Jasper is a luck and money charm.

Jasper is regarded as a healing crystal for the digestive, soothing the stomach, liver, gallbladder and circulatory. Metaphysical healing lore says that Leopardite assists with mental and spiritual aspects of our lives and is especially an emotional healer.

Jasper is associated with the root and sacral chakra. Believed to balance the emotions, enhance self worth, and acceptance. It is also believed to assist with emotional stress from difficult situations, letting go, resolving problems and forgiveness.

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Lemon calcite

Lemon calcite flat specimen 1

Lemon Calcite is a new variety of Calcite discovered in Pakistan and its colour can range in just about every shade of yellow to gold. The wide range of colours is caused by the amount of iron impurities within individual stones.

Yellow Calcite is associated with the solar plexus, self-confidence and hope. It is said to be effective at clearing out old energy patterns and increasing personal motivation and drive. From the solar plexus chakra and slowly begin to expand outwards in all directions, specifically our physical and emotional bodies

Yellow Calcite clears accumulated self-doubt, giving you the opportunity for a clean emotional slate.

With the energy-cleansing properties of this crystal, it can be a very useful tool in keeping self-doubt and worry at bay, bringing in the positive energies of improved confidence, optimism, and hope for the future.

Naturally, these properties lend it well to improving both your physical and mental health, as it can certainly aid in supporting those experiencing symptoms of depression. Motivation can go hand in hand with mood. If you are struggling to get motivated, whether that’s at work, the jobs in the house, or even with making yourself a priority, it can be exceptionally advantageous to work with Yellow Calcite.

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Iolite

lolite specimen

Iolite is derived from the Greek ‘ios’, meaning “violet”. But has been known as multiple different names; Cordierite, after French geologist Louis Cordier, Dichroite, due to a property known as ‘pleochroism’, whereby the colour (blue/violet) changes depending on how the gemstone is viewed. It’s also known as the Water Sapphire or the Stone of the Muses, because of its ability to unlock visions and unleash creativity and of course the Viking compass


the seafaring Scandinavians (Vikings) used iolite as a navigational aid. To determine the position of the sun, the Vikings used iolite as a polarisation filter.


It is believed Iolite is very effective in detoxification and can help you quit addictions. It may also help with heartburn, bloating, vomiting, and other disorders related to the bowels or stomach.


Iolite can aid in self-discovery, independence and if you are a traveller, guides you through stormy shores, and helps individuals navigate the depths of their souls, seeking new pathways of thought


Iolite resonates and boosts the functions of the third eye chakra. This stone carries great third eye energies, which is why it’s often used to access higher guidance and strengthen your intuition. You can then achieve mental clarity and visualise your goals and dreams.

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Howlite

Howlite specimen

Howlite was named after Henry How, who discovered it in 1868 in Nova Scotia. Henry How was a Canadian chemist, geologist and mineralogist whom was alerted to a previously unknown mineral by gypsum quarry miners who found it hampered their mining.

Howlite has the appearance of white marble or porcelain with white or grey, then with grey, black or dark brown veins running through it. Although, extremely rare there are transparent howlite crystals are extremely rare. Howlite forms as irregular nodules which can be like a cauliflower head.

Howlite is best known for imitating other gemstones. Being porous, howlite can absorb dye well, which means it can be dyed to look like turquoise, red coral and lapis lazuli.

The calming nature of Howlite can ease overthinking and the consequential stress that can often lead to physical illness. Naturally, the calmer you are the better your sleep. If you are suffering from ADHD or learning disabilities, keeping this stone close may help. 
   
Howlite is strongly associated with the Crown Chakra taking you onto a journey towards spirituality and enhancing your memory. Additionally, keeping howlite close to the third eye helps to heighten awareness and consciousness.

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Sodalite

sodalite specimen

People worldwide have treasured sodalite stones for many millennia. Even as early as 2600 B.C., the ancient city of Caral near Peru bartered goods with sodalite.

Thousands of years later in 1811, European explorers discovered sodalite during their travels in Greenland.

Toward the end of the century in 1891, Princess Margaret discovered sodalite during their tour of Canada. After that, sodalites became popular for their ornamental qualities that we know and love today. In fact, Canadians now refer to sodalite as the “Princess Blue” stone.

Although somewhat similar to lazurite and lapis lazuli, sodalite rarely contains pyrite (a common inclusion in lapis) and its blue colour is more like traditional royal blue rather than ultramarine. It is further distinguished from similar minerals by its white (rather than blue) streak.

Sodalite is a stone of insight and mental enhancement. Sodalite enhances mental capability and allowing self evaluation enabling you to highlight your own strengths and weaknesses.

Similarly, sodalite assists in the development of intuition and helping you to  understand yourself and is a great crystal for supporting the third-eye chakra and promoting  intuition and helps still the mind.