LAPIS LAZULI -THYROID

Lapis Lazuli is a beautiful stone. Humans have been wearing it as jewelry for thousands of years. Once again I was drawn to a stone because of its beautiful dark blue color. It also has flecks and veins of gold. Not surprisingly, it is associated with the Throat Chakra.

Lapis Lazuli is found in India and Pakistan. It is a common stone. Common or not you can spend quite a sum on top quality Lapis Lazuli jewelry.

Lapis Lazuli

Drawn to it for it's beauty I am now interested in Lapis Lazuli because of its supposed beneficial effects on the thyroid. I have suspected for sometime that I have low thyroid. I am no fan of pharmaceuticals and particularly don't want to start thyroid medication. Once on it you can't ever go back. If you run out and for some reason can't get more you're up the creek without a paddle. The thyroid is a major hormonal regulator but it retires for good with prolonged use of thyroid medication. I had it on the run before with dietary and excise regimens but got lazy and now some of the symptoms have returned. I am once again back on my regimen but this time I am going to add Lapis Lazuli to the mix. Leave no stone unturned.

Physical Issues: 

Aches and Pains, Bones, Detoxification, Eyes, Immune System, Insomnia,

Emotional Issues:

Anxiety, Calming, Depression

Spiritual Issues:

Appreciation, Intuition, Meditation, Truth

QUICK REFERENCE

Chakras:  

Throat (Blue)
Third-Eye (Purple)
Crown (Violet)

©Walker Barnard

ANGELITE

I'm not sure if blue or green is my favorite color but I surely do love blue. When I chose my Angelite  stone I was primarily drawn to the color but there was also a sense of serenity about them. Angelite is also known as Anhydrite, not nearly as nice as Angelite. Angelite is found in Peru.

Angelite seems to have more to do with the non-physical world. As one might guess from the name it is thought to be a conduit to communicating with your guardian angels.

Angelite

I never thought much about my guardian angels until last summer when my only sister died in a freak accident. So, many things have happened since then to bring my attention and awareness to my angels, I am completely convinced of their existence.  I consult with them regularly now. I only regret it has taken me so long to wake up to their presence.

Physical Issues:

Osteoporosis, Sleep, Throat, Water Retention 

Emotional Issues:

Acceptance, Compassion, Fear, Peace, Truth

Spiritual Issues:

Angelic Realm, Angel Communication, Archangels, Perception, Visualization, Totem-Animals

QUICK REFERENCE

Chakras: 

Throat - (Blue)
Crown- (Violet)
Third-Eye (Purple)

©Walker Barnard

CARE & FEEDING OF PET ROCKS

When I came up with the title for this blog post it was tongue in cheek. I was hearkening back to the 70's when an imaginative fellow by the name of Gary Dahl invented the Pet Rock. It was all the rage and made the man a millionaire. Now come to find out the Pet Rock is alive and well. Nordstrom's sold out of their version this past Christmas and the little rascal was fetching $85.00.

Actually, I am referring to the stones in my collection. They are like friends to me, with or without any healing capabilities. I name each one and call it by name. Each stone is so unique and beautiful I can't resist the urge to name it, especially the ones I carry around in my pocket. Sounds silly but there you go.

But, if one is hoping to get any potential benefit from their stones' energy there are some things to consider. First off I think you should carefully wash each stone or crystal acquired ASAP. No telling who's grubby hands have been on it or what kind of energy they transferred to the stone. It could be nasty negative stuff.

Also, one never knows how long a stone has been kept away from energizing sunlight. Stones and crystals do run out of energy and need regular re-charging. I think you should let any new rock you bring into your space sit in the sun for several hours after gently washing in warm soapy water.

Some even suggest one find out where and how stones were mined to determined if they were carefully removed from the earth. For me that's a bit over the top. I don't doubt a stone can pick up negative energy from improper handling.  But, I'm not about to do the amount of research required to determine how the stone was handle at the mine.

My solution for this potential problem is simple. Treat my stones with love and respect. Use my love energy to dispel any negative treatment my rock might have encountered on it's way to me. In all the reading I have done so far on the subject it's all about what stones and crystals can do for us. I think the flow should be both ways. I will will send my love energy to my stones and crystals every time I handle them. Give my gratitude for their presence in my life.

The mere beautiful presence of stone and crystals in my space is enough to bring tranquility and happiness into my life. Those feelings I believe have a major positive effect on my emotional health and that my emotional health has a huge impact on my physical health. Regardless of what you believe I do not see how you can go wrong bringing stone and crystal energy into your world. Just make sure you pay attention to the care and feeding of your new friends.

Forget about Nordstrom's. For $85 my local rock shops will sell me any number of beautiful stones and crystals as opposed to just one in a leather pouch.

©Walker Barnard

FANCY JASPER

Fancy Jasper is a type of quartz. Jasper is a Greek derived word that means "spotted stone". The stone I chose certainly bears the spotted aspect out. Fancy Jasper is also known as the "Stone of Tranquility". I looked through the Google images and didn't find any that looked quite like mine. I also saw images of stones that were not Fancy Jasper at all. Just a reminder, Google doesn't know whether images are misidentified or not. They just read the key word and trust it's correct.

Even though there wasn't a photo of a stone just like mine I am comfortable it is in fact a Fancy Jasper. In the identification info I've read it says that Fancy Jasper has green in it, mine does not. Perhaps the lack of green means a lack of quality. I don't know. I find this friend beautiful and intriguing. Fancy Jasper is fairly common and found in Africa and Brazil.

Fancy Jasper

Physical Issues:   

Blood-Circulation, Detox, Stomach, Insomnia

Emotional Issues:  

Calming, Concentration, Focus

Spiritual Issues:  

Grounding, Problem solving

QUICK REFERENCE


Chakras:

Primary Chakras - Root (Red)
Effects all chakras

©Walker Barnard

STONES AND CRYSTAL QUICK REFERENCE.

This post will be a work in progress and updated on a regular basis as I go through the discovery progress for each of my stones and crystals. I want to create  a reverse index where I list conditions that might be addressed by proximity to a particular stone or crystal. I am not endeavoring to list every condition but rather those I have an interest in. A catalog I can go to anytime and choose stones I want to have in my space according to how I am feeling either physically or mentally.

PHYSICAL ISSUES

Aches & Pains -- Lapi Lazuli
ADD -- Rainbow Fluorite
Arthritis -- Malachite, Rainbow Fluorite
Back -- Malachite, Selenite
Bones -- Malachite, Rainbow Fluorite, Ruby Fuchsite, Selenite, Lapis Lazuli
Blood Pressure -- Ruby Fuchsite
Carpel-Tunnel -- Ruby Fuchsite
Concentration -- Rainbow Fluorite
Constipation -- Ruby Fuchsite
Dental Problems -- Rainbow Fluorite
Detoxification -- Malachite, Shungite, Fancy Jasper, Lapis Lazuli
EMF Protection -- Shungite
Focus -- Rainbow Fluorite
Headaches -- Malachite
Immune System -- Amethyst, Malachite, Ruby Fuchsite, Shungite, Lapis Lazuli 
Insomnia  -- Amethyst, Shungite, Lapis Lazuli
Memory -- Amethyst, Selenite
Metabolism -- Amethyst
Nutrient Absorption -- Rainbow Fluorite, Selenite
Psoriasis -- Amethyst
Skin Problems -- Malachite
Tinnitus -- Amethyst
Wrinkles -- Amethyst



NON-PHYSICAL ISSUES

Abundance -- Malachite, Ruby Fuchsite
Anger -- Amethyst
Anxiety -- Amethyst, Lapis Lazuli
Awareness -- Amethyst
Balance -- Amethyst, Malachite, Ruby Fluorite
Calming -- Ruby Fuchsite, Fancy Jasper, Lapis Lazuli
Coping -- Amethyst
Creativity -- Malachite
Depression -- Lapis Lazuli
Enhanced Will power -- Malachite 
Fear -- Amethyst
Focus -- Amethyst, Fancy Jasper,
Grounding -- Rainbow Fluorite, Fancy Jasper
Happiness -- Ruby Fuchsite,
Harmony -- Amethyst, Selenite
Healed Heart -- Malachite
Inner-Child -- Amethyst
Intuition -- Amethyst, Rainbow Fluorite, Selenite, Lapis Lazuli
Manifestation -- Rainbow Fluorite
Motivation -- Amethyst
Problem Solving -- Fancy Jasper
Protection From Negative Energy -- Malachite, Rainbow Fluorite, Shungite
Self-Confidence - Ruby Fuchsite
Self-Esteem -- Ruby Fuchsite
Truth -- Shungite, Selenite, Lapis Lazuli
Wisdom -- Amethyst

IS THERE SCIENTIFIC PROOF OF THE HEALING PROPERTIES OF STONES & CRYSTALS?

As I have been researching the various stones and crystals in my collection I have run across several articles dissing the notion of stones and crystals having healing properties. The biggest argument; there is no scientific evidence to support it. One article I read bordered on the ridiculous. The idiot that wrote it was so moronic he supplied more evidence against his position than for it. Reminding me, yet again, to always be wary of stuff you find on the internet.

Some detractors were downright rabid about how stupid it was to think rocks had any healing properties. To him the idea is just New Age hokum. I am always leery of people that cannot present their arguments in a calm and educated manner. Unfortunately, people who rant their opinions are legion. All they show me is their ignorance.

It has been noted, in studies where a placebo (fake crystals) were used in place of real a stones or crystals, the placebo was chosen often as not. The placebo had as much effect as a real rock. It was posited that in fact such studies proved the stones had no healing energy whatsoever. Link to one ridiculous article I don't like linking it because Google will interpret it as a good thing. But, I'll no doubt want to refer to it again and not in a good way.

I'm too new into my exploration of rocks and crystals to have an educated opinion on the matter. But, I do have an open mind. Therefore, if it works for no other reason than I believe it works why should I care? I do believe there is considerable scientific evidence the mind/brain is an awesomely powerful organ. I also know that beauty makes me smile and it has been scientifically proven that smiling can help with depression. Below is a little arrangement I made on my nightstand.

Rock and Crystal Display

I think it's beautiful. When I look at it it makes me smile. It provides me with moments of experiencing joy and serenity which reduces stress which supports my immune system. Sounds pretty good to me.

In an earlier post I mentioned Shungite and how some say it might help me sleep better.  I am now 10 nights into placing a Shungite pyramid on my forehead for five minutes or so after lights out. I can report during this time I have taken no sleep aides and have slept like a log. Is it because the Shungite has special energy or is it because I am open to the idea that it does? As Clark Gable famously said in Gone With The Wind "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn" which it is. For whatever reason, it's working for me.

©Walker Barnard

MALACHITE

It was only natural I was drawn to Malachite on my Birthday Rock Hunt. Malachite has always been a favorite stone. Green and blue are my favorite colors. It's a toss up as to which is tops, green or blue. I have seen some absolutely exquisite jewellery made with Malachite. Set in gold it knocks my socks off.

The best Malachite comes from Africa and Russia. Malachite has a 9 vibration which I take to mean high energy. I need to see what I can out about rock vibration. And, lucky me, Malachite energy resonates well with Capricorn energy. I'll hold tight to my Malachite!

Malachite

I couldn't resist setting it down in the snow.

Malachite

Physical Issues: 

Arthritis, Back, Bones, Lungs, Immune System Strengthening, Detoxification, Headaches, Skin

Emotional Issues:

Comfort, Emotional Balance, Hope, Confidence, Negativity Disbursement, Enhanced Willpower

Spiritual Issues:

Enlightened Leadership, Creativity, Protection From Negative Energies, A Healed Heart, Abundance

Chakras:

Heart (Green)
Throat (Blue)



©Walker Barnard

RAINBOW FLUORITE

My Rainbow Fluorite, pictured below, is translucent and would be considered a B grade which is low on the quality totem pole. But, I like it because it is colorful and has character. More clearly defined stripes make for a higher quality stone. I'll keep that in mind when trying to upgrade the collection.

Rainbow Fluorite is a common stone which can be found in China, South America and Montana. The fact it can be found right here in Montana is exciting because I can go rockhounding for it without leaving home. Also, this stone is said to resonate particularly well with Capricorns. I find that a lovely co-incidence, that a stone only found in a handful of locations around the world is located in the state I chose to be my home and it resonates with my astrological sign. Fifteen years after moving here, confirmations of a choice well made are still coming.

Rainbow Fluorite

Physical Issues:

ADD, Arthritis, Bones, Focus, Concentration, Dental Problems, Nutrition Absorption,  Issues of the Lungs, Supports Brain Chemistry

Emotional Issues:

Emotional Balance, Negativity

Spiritual Issues:

Grounding, Intuition, Manifestation

Chakras:

All

©Walker Barnard

RUBY FUCHSITE

As mentioned in an earlier post none of my stones were chosen for any other reason than I was drawn to them for their beauty and intrigue. Now, I want to learn more about them in every respect.

One of the first stones that struck a chord with me was a Ruby Fuchsite.  Ruby Fuchsite is a combination of two minerals occurring together, natural Red Ruby embedded in pale to medium green Fuchsite. Ruby Fuchsite is a common stone which can be found in India, Brazil and Pakistan. It's mineral class is silicate. Ruby Fuchsite is often misidentified as Ruby Zoisite or vice versa.

Healing Issues:    

Blood pressure, Bones, Carpel Tunnel, Immune System, Constipation, Urinary, Heart

Emotional Issues:

Calming, Happiness, Self-Confidence, Self-Esteem Tranquility, Compassion

Spiritual Issues:

Clairvoyance, Karma, Abundance, Motivation to Heal Oneself

QUICK REFERENCE

Chakras:

Heart (Green)
Root (Red)

I can vouch for a couple of the emotional effects already, calming and happiness. Looking at something I define as beautiful always makes me feel these emotions.

I am plagued with wrist pain in both wrists which is probably carpel tunnel. I'm going to keep an eye out for a Ruby Fuchsite bracelet. I'd like to put Ruby Fuchsite to the test and a bracelet seems like the right vehicle.

©Walker Barnard

Episode 3: MY "POCKET BOOK OF STONES"

A funny thing happens. I'm thinking since I've become interested in Shungite I should get my pal some Shungite for Christmas. But, then I think naw she probably knows all about it, I'll wait and find out. So what does my pal give me for Christmas? A Shungite pyramid! We have a good laugh.

Now my birthday rolls around on the 12th of January and my friend wants to do for me what I had done for her, turn me loose in a rock shop with a budget. Well, I was like a kid in a candy store. I was literally looking for rock candy.

I gamboled up and down the isles choosing stones purely for their sense of style and design. I blew half my budget on a Amethyst geode and a Selenite ball. All I knew was it looked like a VERY pretty combination to me.

 My Amethyst Geode with Selenite Ball

I used up the rest of my budget on smaller stones I thought had interesting designs or were somehow especially intriguing. I had not a clue what healing power any of them supposedly had. But, the Shungite had tipped me off to the idea that stones had more going for them than just pretty faces.

Whilst we were checking out my friend picked up a book that indexed stones and crystals describing the objects as well as their healing qualities. The book was the size of the family bible. I was not interested in picking up that much baggage.

I continued to roam around whilst the proprietor rang up my choioces. In my wanderings I came across a little book, approx 4.5 x 5.5, by Robert Simmons entitled "The Pocket Book of Stones". Thumbing through it I just knew I wanted to learn more about my stones. I bought the book and I'm pretty sure it will prove to be a pivotal choice. In fact, I think this book will help me open spiritual doors I had no idea even existed.

Pocket Book of Stones is filled with glossy photos and treasure troves of information. Each stone has a synopsis of it's qualities.  For example Amethyst is described thus:

Keywords: Protection, purification, Divine connection, release of addictions
Chakras: Third eye (6th) Crown (7th) Etheric (8th - 14th)
Element: Wind
Physical: Overcoming addictions, tinnitus, nerve disorders, aids in oxygenation of blood
Emotional: Helps clear negative or addictive emotional patterns.
Spiritual: Facilitates conscious connection with Spirit Guides, Angels and Source

Following the synopsis is a more in depth description of the stone and it's unique characteristics.  I'll never again visit a rock shop without "Pocket Book of Stones".

My choice of the Amethyst crystal turned out to be rather interesting. I initially bot some Shungite because I thought it might help with my tinnitus. A purely speculative idea on my part.  But, as it turns out, my "Pocket Book of Stones" suggests Amethyst is good for tinnitus. Proving once again the universe will lead you if you will just allow yourself to follow.

Another interesting thing about the Pocket Book of Stones synopsis it that it lists chakras effected by the stones. I don't know that much about chakras but I was under the impression there were only seven. The synopsis for Amethyst suggests fourteen? Clearly I need to brush up on my chakras which I plan to do in the next episode.

©Walker Barnard

Episode 2: SHUNGITE - A ROCK WITH A PURPOSE?

The early part of last December I was watching a video in which the subject of Shungite arose. The video wasn't about rocks and crystals the subject just came up in relationship to EMPs. EMP stands for electromagnetic pulse. And a big shot of this stuff from the sun or somewhere out in space could knock out all our power grids and electronics.

What the interviewee in this video was saying is that we get exposed to small doses of electromagnetic pulses all day long from our computers, televisions and microwaves. I was aware of the effect of an EMP on like autos and the electrical grid but I didn't know about my personal space.

A little research revealed that it's not EMPs which are associated with appliances but EMFs. EMF stands for electromagnetic field and it is to this field we expose ourselves everyday. Studies have shown that exposure to EMF's, which emit low dose radiation,  can impact your immune system and lead to cancer and other health issues in some people.

I wondered if the stone could help me with my tinnitus. I've got it pretty bad from running a chainsaw and a youth filled with hunting and shooting without ear protection. I am very sensitive to high frequencies. On a lark and not knowing a thing about any of this stuff I decided to buy some Shungite to see if it would help with the tinnitus.

I jumped on Amazon and had a Shungite pendant to wear around my neck and a small Shungite pyramid in my possession in a couple of days. So now I'm wondering what is this stuff anyway?

Shungite Pendent

Shungite comes from the Republic of Karelia in northwestern Russia and only from this region. It is estimated the deposits are in the neighborhood of 2 billion years old. Think of that. I can hold in my hand something that is two billion years old. True, we all walk around on a planet that is 4.5 billion years old but how often are we conscious of what we are doing?

As you can see Shungite isn't one of the more colorful stones. It looks more like a lump of coal. But, this stone wasn't bot as an ornament I was curious about it's potential function. I have since learned that Shungite is an ancient healing stone that is good for much more than EMFs. It has something called Fullerenes which are said to act as anti-oxidants. Who can't use that?

Shungite Pyramid

I've had the stones for about a month now and I can report I detect no difference in my tinnitus.

I also have trouble falling asleep many nights. I usually take Alteril, a natural sleep aid, when I can't sleep. The last three nights I have turned out the lights and set the pyramid in the center of my forehead whilst laying on my back. I'm an on my side sleeper so I stay on my back as long as I can take it then remove the stone and rollover on my side. I'm grateful I'm in the dark as I might look kind of funny laying there with a black pyramid on my forehead. But, here's the thing, for three nights now I have fallen asleep very quickly and stayed asleep all night long. Granted three nights a study does not make but I am going to keep a journal and will report back when I have more data.

I try keeping an open mind in general and so it is with learning about how stones might not be just pretty things we collect and use to adorn ourselves. They may hold mysteries that can be most beneficial to those who take the time to learn. I'm game and anxious to see where this exploration leads.

UPDATE:  February 14, 2017 I have now had 30 consecutive nights of complete restful sleep.


©Walker Barnard