Gemstone Trivia

Amethyst
In ancient times the Greeks used to drink their wine from cups made of Amethyst. They believed it would keep them from becoming intoxicated. This is actually where its name derives; a (α) means 'not' and methystos (μέθυστος) means 'intoxicated'.
Amethyst is associated with the zodiac signs of Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius and Capricorn. It is said to bring balance, stability, peace, calm, and inner strength to the wearer. It is used to encourage sobriety, relieve headaches and promote sleep. 

Garnet
Garnets are a group of minerals that have been used since the Bronze Age as gemstones and – believe it or not – abrasives.
Garnet is associated with the zodiac signs of Leo, Virgo and Aquarius, and is known as the ‘stone of health.’ It removes negativity and increases the wearer’s self-esteem. It also has a reputation as the ‘stone of love and commitment,’ helping the wearer in both relationships with the self as well as with others. It is also associated with stimulating successful business. 

Malachite
The stone’s name derives from the Greek molochitis lithos (μολοχίτης λίθος) meaning ‘mallow-green stone.’ It is a mineral, and is possibly the oldest know green pigment. Ancient Greeks and Egyptians ground it to use as eye-shadow and it was used centuries ago in paintings and Egyptian tomb art. It was very prominent as a pigment in art up until the 16th century. Today it is used mainly in jewellery and sculpture.
Malachite is associated with the zodiac signs of Capricorn and Scorpio, and is known as a stone of ‘transformation’ and ‘reflection.’ It is said to reflect how you feel,  clarify emotions and clear chakras. It stimulates intuitive reasoning and is known as a protector of children and travellers. It also protects the wearer from accidents. 

Onyx
Onyx is associated with the zodiac sign of Leo. It is known as the ‘grounding stone’ or the ‘stone of balance,’ as it helps the wearer to achieve this. It also helps to fend off negative energy, whether it be someone else’s or your own. It is said to get rid of feelings of grief and enhance self-control. It assists in smart decision making, and helps the wearer stay true to themselves and follow through with their decisions.

Pearls
In Greek a pearl is called margaritari (μαργαριτάρι); the English name ‘Margaret’ comes from the Greek word for pearl. Natural ocean pearls are very rare and therefore very valuable. They are produced within the living shell of a mollusk because of an irritation.
Freshwater cultured pearls are more common. They are NOT fake pearls (like glass pearls). They are natural and the process for their production can take just as long as it does in the ocean. Freshwater pearls are produced in the shells of mussels by using sand.
Pearls are associated with the zodiac signs of Cancer and Gemini. They are known as ‘stones of sincerity’ and help to deter flashy and flaunty behavior. They encourage faith and innocence, and remind the wearer to honest, pure, wise and dignified.
Gold or Black pearls symbolize prosperity and Rose pearls help the heart’s chakra.   

Tiger’s Eye
Tiger’s Eye is associated with the zodian sign of Capricorn and is said to draw upon the best qualities of tigers and pass them to the wearer. Patience, focus and determination are qualities it enhances. It is also known to prevent abuse of power, allowing the wearer to see clearly and apply just the right amount of courage, power and grace to be successful in all aspects of life. It can attract and maintain wealth and also helps to clear the mind. 

Quartz Crystal
Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth’s continental crust. There are many varieties, and it has been used in jewellery since antiquity.
It is known as the ‘energizer’ or ‘amplifier’ and is associated with the entire zodiac. It is the most powerful and multipurpose healing stone. It will help boost your self-esteem, aid in communication, increase energy, and help you to focus. It encourages harmony, and enhances the energies of all other stones and metals.