Author: TylerH

Spectral Stone will be at the Gothic Market at the Indiana State Fairgrounds this weekend. Hope to see you there

The Gothic Market

Grimoire’s Gothic Market – Inspired by Pop-culture & classics like Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Harry Potter, and American Horror Story, Our Goth & Witch Exhibition is a folklore-themed market & exhibition that works to bring together various aspects of witchcraft, Halloween, horror, tarot, folklore, renaissance, couture, supernatural, strange things, & metaphysical items (crystals, mediumship, reiki, psychics, candles, herbology, fairytales, fragrance, & professional businesses). 🎓 Tradeshow. Gothic or Formal Attire Encouraged, but not required.

Entry: In order to attend this event, you must have tickets in advance. There will be no tickets for purchase at the door (you will be directed to the website at check-in). Same Event, both days, 12pm to 5pm (Harvest Pavillion).

Amethyst rings, pendants and earrings set in sterling silver.

Amethyst has a long history dating back to ancient times, where it was valued for its beauty and believed to possess protective and calming powers. Its name originates from the Greek “amethystos,” meaning “not drunken.” Ancient Greeks and Romans associated it with Dionysus, the god of wine. They believed it could prevent intoxication and help the wearer stay clear-headed. During the Middle Ages, it became a symbol of royalty and was used in religious regalia. Bishops wore it to symbolize their dedication to the church. The stone’s value, comparable to diamonds, decreased after the discovery of large deposits in Brazil in the 19th century. 

Ancient history

• Ancient Greece and Rome: The name “amethyst” comes from the Greek word for “not drunken.” They believed the stone could protect against intoxication. They would even carve figures onto the gems or wear them to keep them clear-headed.
• Ancient Egypt: Egyptians used amethyst in amulets, particularly heart-shaped ones, for burial to protect the deceased.
• Biblical significance: Amethyst was one of the twelve stones on the High Priest’s breastplate, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. 

Middle Ages and Renaissance

• Royal and religious significance: Amethyst was frequently used in royal regalia and religious artifacts due to its purple color. This color was often associated with royalty and deities.
• Clergy and royalty: In Europe, Catholic bishops wore amethyst rings. It was also used in crowns and other adornments for royalty.
• Symbolic properties: During this period, it was also associated with a sense of calm and wisdom. Leonardo da Vinci noted its ability to dissipate evil thoughts and quicken intelligence

Amethyst Gemstone History | February Birthstones – American Gem Society

Rocky Butte picture jasper is a type of jasper found in the Owyhee Mountains of southeastern Oregon, known for its colorful patterns of blue, green, brown, and yellow, often with a “cobweb” or scenic appearance. 

Rocky Butte Natural Area | Portland.gov

• Origin: Rocky Butte, a volcano in the Owyhee Mountains of southeastern Oregon.
• Colors: A multicoloured jasper with blends of blue, green, yellow, brown, and red, often with a “cobweb” or mottling effect.
• Patterns: Features patterns that resemble landscapes, created by silicate mud and dendritic inclusions.
• Hardness: Measures seven on the Moh’s scale, making it a very hard and durable stone.
• Uses: Valued for its beauty and durability, it is used for polishing, cabochons, and other jewelry. 

Purple jade was discovered in the Bursa region of Turkey. It was used as a symbol of royalty throughout the Ottoman Empire. Set in Sterling Silver.

Purple jade’s history is distinct from that of most other jade, with true lavender jade being a natural but rare variety of jadeite, while the more widely known and highly prized Turkish purple jade (also called turkiyenite) is a distinct geological material that is not true jade but a “jadeite rock”. Lavender jade has a more romantic, mystical history, while the Turkish variety was discovered more recently and became popular for its rarity, though its value is debated by some. 

Natural, rare variety: The history of what is commonly called lavender jade is linked to the broader history of jade in places like China, Central America, and the Maori culture.

Symbolism: Historically, all jade is associated with prosperity, success, and good fortune.

Modern popularity: In recent years, natural lavender jade has been highly prized by collectors for its soft, romantic color, though it is still a rare and expensive find

Botswana Agate comes from the Bobonong District in Botswana, Africa. All pieces are set in Sterling Silver.

Botswana agate’s history spans ancient to modern times, with early use in ancient Egypt and Africa for fertility rituals and protection. Discovered in the Bobonong district of Botswana, it was traditionally worn by local tribes as a protective amulet, believed to offer safety during conflict. In the 20th century, the discovery of large deposits led to its global popularity as a decorative gemstone for jewelry and collections. 

Ancient and traditional uses

Africa: In the regions around modern-day Botswana, the stone was and is still used in fertility rituals to bless pregnant women and ensure healthy offspring, symbolizing vitality and the continuity of life. Some shamans use it in rituals to invoke ancestral spirits for protection and guidance.

Ancient Egypt: The Egyptians used agate as amulets, particularly scarabs, to symbolize strength, protection, and regeneration.

Ancient Greece and Rome: Warriors wore agate jewelry for protection, a practice also noted in ancient Greece as far back as 1500 BC

Botswana Agate Stone: Meaning, History, Properties, and Value