Pinolith Meaning and Properties
Pinolith History
Pinolith (pine stone), or Austrian pinolith, is a very rare semi-precious stone. Named for its magnesite inclusions resembling white pinecones or kernels (pine nuts), pinolith is also known as pinolite, pinolitstein or in German, märbelstein. Pinolith shows a matrix radiance ranging from gray to black.
It comes from only one place in the world, a magnesite deposit located in Lower Tauern, a mountain range of the Central Eastern Alps in Austria, where pinolith was discovered in 1873.
Pinolith was mined during World War II for its high manganese content—essential to iron and steel production.
What are the Metaphysical Properties of Pinolith?
Pinolith meaning is associated with optimism and balance. It is said to provide a soothing, calming effect, improving self-esteem while establishing equilibrium between emotions and intellect. Pinolith meaning is linked to promoting imagination and creativity by banishing negativity and encouraging clarity of mind for positive visualization. Metaphysical adherents credit pinolith with helping them attain the highest state of meditation, finding it a useful aid for relaxation.
Pinolith is believed to activate the crown chakra and open the heart chakra to sincere love. It conducts energies that turn on the third eye. Pinolith is aligned with the astrological sign of Aries.
What is Pinolith Made From?
Pinolith is a metamorphic rock containing magnesite as white crystals in a gray dolomite and graphite matrix. While dolomite and magnesite can be found in many locations around the world, this unique combination can be found only in Styria, a state within southeastern Austria. Its German name, märbelstein, refers to the gemstone's unique marbled appearance.
- Mineral Information: A mixture of magnesite, dolomite and graphite
- Chemical Composition: MgCO3 (magnesium carbonate), CaMg(CO3)2 (dolomite)
- Color: White kernels of color against a black to gray matrix
- Hardness: 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 (Mohs)
- Specific Gravity: Areas of 3.0 – 3.2; areas of 2.3
- Refractive Index: Areas of 1.508 - 1.700, areas of 2.85 - 2.95
How Do You Clean Pinolith?
Because magnesite is one of its components and has similar hardness, pinolith is easily scratched, so special care should be taken in cleaning and storing this stone. Use water and a soft cloth to safely clean. Storing in a drawstring bag is a quick-and-easy way to protect the stone from scratches. It is not recommended to use ultrasonic and steam cleaning on pinolith.
Pinolith FAQ
Q: Is pinolith a natural or man-made stone?
A: Pinolith is a natural metamorphic stone.
Q: Is pinolith dyed or enhanced?
A: Pinolith’s black and white beauty make it a natural beauty.
Q: Is pinolith rare?
A: Pinolith comes from a single location in Austria, and as such is quite rare.
Designing with Pinolith
The white and black opaqueness of Austrian pinolith makes it ideal for creating a classic look of sophistication when matched with polished or antiqued sterling silver. Pinolith's black matrix can be further emphasized in conjunction with black gemstones such as jet, onyx, black jasper and black obsidian. Pinoilith's primary natural neutral hues of white and black make it a "universal donor" that makes it a great accent for a wide range of colorful gemstones.
**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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