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Gemstone Glossary

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Hematite: known to Ancient Greek as a protector from wounds and danger. Was used by the American Indians and others as face paint because of its red ochre.

Lapis: name is derived through the medieval Latin lapis lazulus , from the Arabic word lazhward , meaning “blue.” The ancient Romans called it sapphirus.

Malachite: name derived fom the Greek malakhe , meaning “mallow,” a herb with dark green leaves. Believed to protect children from witchcraft.

Mother of Pearl: hard, iridescent inner layer of certain shells.

Moonstone: believed to bring good fortune in India and is considered a sacred stone.

Orange Moonstone: the sheen in moonstone is referred to as adularescence.

Opal: opalus was the ancient Latin name from the Sanskrit upala , meaning “precious stone.” The Greek oppallios literally means “to see a change of color.”

Black Onyx: is the material of most limestone caves. Is usually cut into slabs and made into decorative objects. Said to give intuitive guidance.

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