Chalcedony
Meaning and Properties
History
The first recorded discovery of chalcedony was reported in Istanbul Province, Turkey. It is theorized the name chalcedony comes from the name of the ancient town Chalcedony in Asia Minor. Today, deposits are found all over the world in Brazil, India, Madagascar, Malawi, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Uruguay and California. In its antiquity, chalcedony was commonly used as a wearable accessory with cameo carvings of water and air gods and goddesses. It was also used in the Middle East during the 1st and 2nd century to create seals, knives and other jewelry. Chalcedony still is commonly used in accessories such as rings and necklaces.
Metaphysical Properties
This gemstone is thought by many to be lucky for Cancer signs and a protective stone for Sagittarius. Many people believe in the healing and cleansing properties of the stone that include the absorption and dissipation of negative energy so that it does not transfer to other people. This is likely why chalcedony is also thought to align the body, mind and spirit.
In chakra practices, chalcedony is believed to be the stone of communication and is often placed by the pharynx to stimulate the throat chakra. The throat chakra is considered the voice of the body and allows energy or pressure from the other chakras to be released. If the throat chakra is blocked it is believed to cause problems with other chakras. Specifically, blue chalcedony is favored for this practice.
Geological Properties
Chalcedony is a mix of silica cryptocrystalline and moganite. Moganite has the same chemical composition as quartz but differs in the way its crystals form. Chalcedony is also typically a generalized name to encompass all cryptocrystalline forms of quartz. Cryptocrystalline structures have very fine crystalline structures that are invisible to the naked eye. While comprised of fine layers, the layers are densely compacted resulting in a stone more durable than other forms of quartz. These cryptocrystalline forms of quartz come in a wide variety of patterns, colors and sizes. Examples of chalcedony varieties are blue chalcedony, agate, carnelian, chrysoprase and bloodstone. However, unlike most quartz varieties, chalcedony in its natural state appears waxy or dull. While most quartz typically presents itself in trigonal forms, chalcedony occurs in various nodular and botryoidal patterns.
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Proper Care of Chalcedony
This type of stone is easy to care for. As a variety of quartz, its hardness level allows for a durable stone. However, chalcedony can still be scratched or damaged by harder materials, such as a diamond or jewelry-making tool. When cleaning the stone, mild soap and warm water will more than suffice. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Chalcedony is porous, so harsh chemicals such as bleach should be avoided to preserve the integrity and quality of the stone.
To learn more about chalcedony and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.
Designing with Chalcedony
With a wide array of colors, chalcedony is easy to incorporate into most designs. As such a durable stone, it is versatile to work with; It won’t chip or break easily. Chalcedony is often found in rings or necklaces. However, its versatility makes it an option for most designs. Because of its beautiful color and luster, it would make for an eye-catching earring set or focal.
View more resources featuring chalcedony, 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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