Hypersthene
Meaning and Properties
History
Hypersthene gemstones are a greenish rock-forming mineral consisting of magnesium and iron silicate. The word "hypersthene" comes from the Greek word for "over strength," no doubt alluding to the hardness as compared to minerals such as hornblende it was often confused with. "Hypersthene" is not a commonly used term these days, often categorized instead as enstatite or ferrosilite. However, hypersthene is the intermediary between those two minerals. Enstatite contains more magnesium, ferrosilite contains more iron and hypersthene is in the middle with about 50% iron.
Metaphysical Properties
Considered a protective stone, hypersthene helps create calmness and quietness within the mind of the wearer. According to metaphysical beliefs, hypersthene grounds us in an attempt to shield from hectic stimuli. With less outside "noise," wearers of hypersthene are said to better organize thoughts and find creative solutions to problems. Hypersthene is ideal for holding during meditation. It is also believed hypersthene can enhance self-esteem without promoting ego. Crown, third eye, throat, solar plexus and base chakras are most effected by hypersthene.
Geological Properties
Hypersthene belongs to the orthopyroxene class. Individual, well-developed crystals are rare, instead usually found as stubby foliated masses in coarse lamellar or fibrous aggregates. Hypersthene is typically brown, green or grey with a vitreous to pearly luster. Some hypersthene has been known to display a coppery or red metallic sheen. This gemstone is a bit brittle with perfect cleavage and uneven fracture. Hypersthene gemstones have been found in the Adirondack Mountains of New York in the United States as well as Labrador and Quebec, Canada.
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Proper Care of Hypersthene
Remove hypersthene jewelry before engaging in sports or other activities that could result in the stone taking any sharp blows. Also remove hypersthene before coming into contact with harsh cleaning agents or detergents. Avoid bleach and other chemicals. The safest method for cleaning hypersthene is to use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away cosmetics and dust. Allow the stone to dry completely before wearing or storing hypersthene jewelry. Store hypersthene away from harder gemstone materials or metals that could scratch the surface.
To learn more about hypersthene and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.
Designing with Hypersthene
This rugged stone is ideal for men's, women's and unisex jewelry designs. The dark tones work well with all Earthy browns, greens and greys, as well as black. If the hypersthene you're designing with happens to have inclusions with metallic sheen, heighten this by using metal beads of similar colors. Hypersthene's dark color ensures it plays well with almost all other colors, giving you plenty of design potential to play with.
View more resources featuring hypersthene, including Design Ideas, Videos, Tutorials and more!
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**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
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