Gemstone Diaries: Chalcedony - History, Lore and Meaning
Mesmerising hues of blues, greens and pinks, are just some of the colours this stone comes in. We love Chalcedony, it’s one of the most versatile and chic gems; we turn to it time and time again every season.
So for the new entry in our gemstone diaries, we decided to put dreamy Chalcedony into the spotlight.
Flora Coin & Chalcedony Earrings
Augusta Aqua Chalcedony Cocktail Ring
The Stone: A Chalcedony is a form of microcrystalline Quartz: compact mineral, comprised of tiny crystals, which can not be visible to the naked eye. Chalcedony occurs in many different forms, colours and patterns. In the gemstone trade the term ‘chalcedony’ is often used to describe specifically white, grey, or blue translucent variety of this stone, however, its technical term includes all additional varieties.
The History: Our ancestors treasured Chalcedony due to its one very special property: it’s perfect for carvings. In ancient Afghanistan, the gem was used to create all manner of items from traditional seals to knives. Archaeological discoveries made at the Palace of Knossos show Bronze Age Minoan predecessors carving designs into Chalcedony to create official seals. In fact, Chalcedony seals, dating back to 1800 BC, have been found on the territory of the modern-day Crete. (Chalcedony is a perfect material for seal carvings, as wax does not stick to the surface). A little later in history, chalcedony rings, featuring beautiful intaglio designs, were created. They were discovered along the trade routes of Central Asia.
Meaning & Properties: Perhaps because of it’s ‘clean’ and opaque texture, Chalcedony is said to have many health benefits and healing properties. It is believed to be a nurturing stone, promoting kinship and good will. Different hues of Chalcedony are believed to have slightly different metaphysical properties.
Blue Chalcedony & Aqua Chalcedony used to be associated with air and water deities in ancient history, this stone is believed to be beneficial to the fifth chakra, also known as a ‘throat’ chakra. It is thought to be of help with communicating ideas, feelings and beliefs – restoring emotional balance throughout the body.White Chalcedony this stone is thought to enhance compassion and affection. Its gentle healing power is believed to help bring the energy to its original, calm and peaceful state, cleansing body, mind and spirit.
Trilogy Amethyst & White Chalcedony Necklace
Our Thoughts:Enchanting and mysterious – Chalcedony is an enigmatic gem. We have created quite a selection of Chalcedony jewelry, featuring this gem in so many beautiful hues. Whether you fell in love with a gorgeous White Chalcedony necklace and would like to add it to your collection, or a pair of Aqua Chalcedony earrings, here are some more gems to tempt you… =)
Discover our new Chalcedony Jewelry edit via the link below.
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