Did you know that various stones were used throughout history for a number of reasons, including religious ceremonies?

In ancient times, the Rabbis covered their breastplates with a set of 12 stones for the purpose of attracting angels. Among these were Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Malachite, Lapis Lasuli, Tiger Eye, Crystal, Moonstone and Onyx.

In Ancient Egypt, Ruby, Lapis Lasuli, Malachite and Sapphire were often used for eye shadow. Pulverized and mixed with water or oil, these stones were made into either a powdered or paste form and used on the face as makeup.

Jett was pulverized and made into a paste which was then applied to swollen or impacted gums and teeth to relieve the pain of swelling.

Sapphires are representative of wisdom and purity in many cultures and kings and queens have long used them in crowns and jewels. When Ground into a fine powder, the sapphire was often believed to be a cure for such diseases as: colic, rheumatism and mental illness, and for strengthening the eyes.

Quartz has been used by manu indigenious cultures for centuries for it's healing properties. Often either pulverized and drank or simply set into water for a few hours, it was believed to have healing qualities for the entire body.

There are numerous quartz varieties. Quartz has been an energy source since the Ancient Atlanteans were reputed to have used it as a source of their electricity. Today, we mostly use it in the movement of clocks and watches. Be certain to check out the quartz-movment watches on eBay!

Turquoise has long been a favored stone among the rulers of Ancient Egypt, the Aztecs Persia, Mesopotamia, the North and South America, and in ancient China. A common belief shared by many of these civilizations held that turquoise possessed certain prophylactic qualities. It was thought to protect it's wearer from negative forces. Still considered today to encompass the properties of: Earth, Air, Fire and Water, it is a revered stone by Many cultures.

Today we use stones like these for Adornments. But there is something about the look and feel of a beautiful gemstone, both rpecious and semi-precious, against the human skin. As natural as our own bodies, gemstones are a perfect companion where ever they are worn.

Copyright, 2007