As a child I was a rock hound, always finding treasures in the grounds of a friend's ranch or a dried Texas creek bed. Luckily, I was never drawn to diamonds... partially because of a social conscience and an awareness of the "blood diamond" trade in Sierra Leone... but also because I just found them boring! I have always been much more drawn to the rich colors of semiprecious gems, the intricate
designs found in mineraloids and the sensuous look of crystalline specimens. Being a retiree has allowed me the indulgence of time to stop at rock shops when I pass one these days, and then to dive down gemstone rabbit holes online when I am attracted to a particular gemstone and research not only the geological composition and suitability for use in jewelry, but also historical data regarding how throughout time different cultures used and related to the stone. I found that in addition to current alternative medicine beliefs in the vibrational healing qualities of certain gemstones, many of them have rather long histories and ample legends of being used as physical or emotional healing aids, or as protective talismans for a variety of issues. While I remain open-mindedly ambivalent with regard to the validity of mineral healing properties.... I am wise enough an Ole Sage to know that "There are more things under heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy"! I have certainly found that knowing the purported qualities particular gemstones are thought to have makes my choice of adornment intentional... and quite possibly makes me aware enough of that intention to align my choices, either consciously or subconsciously. Who knows?! But I would love to hear about your experiences with your favorite gems either way, so please, do not hesitate to join in the discussions!
