ORE FEATURES
A Monthly publication of Ozark Rock Exchange
VOL #4: Issue #5, February 5, 2003
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ORE'S FEATURED GEMSTONE: Moonstone by Stephanie Pflumm Moonstone is a member of the Feldspar crystal family. This unique crystal group seems to have been growing over the last couple of hundred years. My oldest geology reference book (the first English copyright is dated 1904, could not find the original German copyright) recognizes six different Feldspars. One of the more recent references I found on the internet notes over 40 different varieties, many have only been identified in the last 150 years or less. I find this intriguing. It's one of the reasons I decided to write a new Moonstone article and begin researching Feldspars for a future article. Moonstone is likely the most well known of the Feldspar family. Its luminous sheen has captured the eyes of humans for a few thousand years. This shimmering play of light across the surface of the gemstone is call the schiller effect or adularescence (after the Adularia Moonstone). It is caused when layers of Feldspar with differing refractive indexes grow into each other and become compressed under pressure. In Moonstone, layers of Orthoclase and Albite Feldspar are woven together in such a way that the crystal structure interferes with light's attempt to penetrate the crystal. Thus creating the effect of light skimming along the surface. Clear to white Moonstones that flash blue are the most popular and rare of the crystals. Not all Feldspars exhibit the schiller effect, but the most popular ones used in jewelry do; Moonstone, Labradorite, Sunstone and Amazonite. Moonstone is the most colorful member of this family. Specimens can be clear to white with a blue flash, peach, pink and smoky colors that flash a silvery sheen Chemically, Moonstone is composed of aluminum, silicate (Quartz) and potassium. It grows in pegmatites or is found in massive formations in igneous stones. Huge chunks the size of a man's fist and larger, are pulled from gooey deposits of kaolin (a clay like substance that is the weathered by-product of some Feldspars). The quality of Adularia or Rainbow Moonstone that comes from the Ceylonese deposits and mines is unrivaled. Moonstone found in the Swiss Alps often occurs as thin barrel like crystals. They frequently form four separate crystals that grow into each other, creating very unique twins. Brazil, India, Madagascar, North America, Tanzania and Europe all have some gemstone quality Moonstone deposits. India has held the Moonstone sacred since ancient times. It is considered an especially powerful tool for lovers. Wearing the crystals will arouse tender passions and make the heart receptive to receive romantic intentions. Lovers who placed a Moonstone under their tongues during a full Moon may see their future together. To reconcile after a bitter fight, the couple would each take a Moonstone, place it over their heart and empower it with their love. They would then exchange the gemstone with each other and their discord would dissolve. Moonstones for sale in India are only displayed on a yellow cloth, a sacred color for a sacred gemstone. The Moonstone Temple of Anuradhapura was built on Ceylon around 100 BC. According to legend, the steps of the temple were decorated with a mosaic of Moonstones. Ruins are the only thing left to see of the antique temple and its fabled steps. Antoine Mizauld wrote in 1531 of a friend that owned a Moonstone whose refractive qualities would wane and wax in sync with the Moon. Borrowing the gemstone, Mizauld observed the crystal over the course of a month and noted that the appearance of the Moonstone did change as the Moon moved through her phases. Pope Leo X was also said to be in possession on a Moonstone that behaved in a similar fashion, but I could not find a reference linking the stones. Romans believed the crystal was created by the Moon's light. It was frequently used in ceremonies to honor Diana, their Moon Goddess. Her image was said to be enclosed by the stone and whomever possessed it would would receive her blessings of love, wealth, wisdom and victory. This connection to the lunar cycle and energies have given the Moonstone a reputation as a powerful intuitive tool. Many traditions and spells call for using the crystal for divination during either the full or void phase of Grandmother. This month while I was carrying my Moonstone the playoffs and Superbowl were happening. Normally I could care less about football games. Though I do enjoy watching young athletes play games. I knew that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would win their division and the following Sunday I knew they would win the Super Bowl. Grandmother's cycle was waning when both games were played. Or use these Lunar energies to regulate your sleeping cycles. You can use your Moonstone as a wishing tool. While holding or meditating with your Moonstone visualize your wish, see your life as it can be when your wish is fulfilled. Be strong and sure of what your wish for, your intensity and passion are what will drive the crystal's power. The gemstone will absorb the energy of your intent to accomplish this wish and charge or empower the cycles around you to bring your wish to fruition. Lovers may wish to exchange Moonstones. Test its powers to arouse passion, to promote tenderness and romance. Try the Indian tradition of placing the gems under your tongues during the full Moon and see what the future may hold for your love. Use the reflective qualities of this gemstone to make dramatic changes in your life. During a meditation with the stone, the Moonstone becomes your mirror and see it reflecting back those habits or behaviors you'd like to change. Examine them in a critical light, recognize without mercy the real impact they have on your life and health. Then just as Grandmother Moon withers into the new or void Moon, see your unwanted habits wither away until they disappear. Just before or at new Moon bury your Moonstone or toss it away along the roadside, believing the unwanted aspects of your life are behind you. Women wishing to become pregnant or during their pregnancy may want to adopt a Moonstone as a companion crystal. They are said to lighten the burden of your pregnancy and ease the pain and fear of labor. Some traditions encourage the use of the crystal to promote fertility and it may help relief menstrual pain. It should help your body's cycle become more balanced with nature's rhythms making the hormonal variations of a woman's chemistry less traumatic. The crystal may be useful in alleviating allergic reactions to bee stings or insect bites. It was once thought to help eliminate toxins from the body. Pictures of Moonstone --+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+-- SUBSCRIBER'S SPECIAL: FREE Moonstone! Receive a FREE small Moonstone with any purchase from Ozark Rock Exchange. You can shop on line at http://www.ozarkrockexchange.com/catalog.shtml You can also place your order by email ( stephanie@ozarkrockexchange.com ), or send your telephone number for a phone appointment. Discount will be taken at the time of purchase. You must be a subscriber as of February 5, 2003 to be eligible for the Subscriber's Special; the Subscriber Special is not valid with other offers (unless otherwise stated). Only one special per subscriber, please. The Subscriber's Special will expire March 5, 2003. Remember you never pay extra for shipping at Ozark Rock Exchange! --+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+-- SKY NOTES Second Quarter Moon, Sunday February 19, 6:11 am ET -+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+-- Woman Who Walks: Two Eagles Woman Who Walks usually loves the snow, but there has been so much this year that it is becoming difficult not to complain. During this most recent melt, she walked to my house to share one of her new teas. And this story. Shortly after our third blizzard had melted away, the air warmed up very nicely. Grandfather Sun shone bright, chasing the chill out of his Son. Father Sky wore his palest blue cloak and Mother was cozy and welcoming in its embrace. Woman Who Walks couldn't resist the brief retreat of Winter and made for the trail that leads into Swan Creek Valley. Though the path was much livelier and noisier during the Spring and Summer, Woman Who Walks certainly was not alone on the trail. The Cedars all nodded a sleepy greeting. A Robin from the far Northeast (I think she said it was Maine) perched along a barbed wire fence to twitter hello and comment on the beautiful Winter day. She was slowly making her way back home and reveling in the warmer weather and clear Sky. In a few more weeks, thousands of Robins would be making their way through this valley and the Ozarks as they migrated to their more Northern homes. Bluebirds, Cardinals, Chickadees and Nuthatches always stayed to weather the Winter and they were dancing on Father's breezes, playing joyfully in the unseasonable warmth of the day. Woman Who Walks was delighted - she sensed the promise of an early Spring, despite her knowledge that Winter still had more up its sleeve. Woman Who Walks ventured off the trail where it turned to cross the valley floor and headed down to the creek bed instead. She made a mental note to come back in mid Spring. With all the snow that Winter was bringing, there could be some new treasures in the creek when the snow melt runs off the small mountains. Gorgeous Jaspers, Agates, and other Chalcedonies were the constant generous gifts of streams falling out of the Ozark Mountains. Further South, where the Ozark Mountains turn into the Ouachita Mountains, is the home of Mother Earth's most beautiful crystals. Lost in thoughts of crystals and Agates, Woman Who Walks did not see the two Eagles resting on the creek bank until she almost walked into them. Awestruck and surprised a momentary fear froze her steps. She was terrified that she had frightened them and any second they would take flight leaving her with her mouth gaped open, looking just a little foolish. For the last several Winters, Woman Who Walks had seen the Eagles that migrate here from the big mountains out West. Their dark wings and white heads were a dramatic, almost magical sight against the backdrop of Father Sky. As a small child, her elders had lamented that she would probably never have the joy or honor of seeing this great bird. The efforts of the two-leggeds to control Mother Earth had come close to totally destroying the legendary royal raptor. And now, two of them were there right in front of her, not more then three feet away. They must be terrified to have this clunky, noisy two-legged woman come bursting into their territory. Except, the Eagles appeared unfluffed by her appearance. They seemed quite calm, almost as if they had known she would be there. Woman Who Walks eventually noticed that she had not disturbed these feathered visitors in the least. Relaxing, she scanned the rocky creek beach for a smooth spot to sit. Right beneath her was a boulder that looked to be just the perfect size for her. Slow as a tree grows, she lowered herself onto the stone. Her older muscles and bones aching in protest, screaming for her to sit down already. She wasn't taking any chances though, their acceptance of her presence could just be her illusion. Once seated, she paused, remembering to breathe and allow her muscles to untense. A formal, almost ceremonial silence quietly connected the feathered and two-legged relations. Woman Who Walks felt a loving assurance emanating from the Eagles, a confident communication that this moment was exactly as it should be, and each of the participants had been invited and expected. She stretched her arms out, away from her body, her palms held upward in a universal gesture of peace and welcome. At the correct moment, she gathered her words and opened her mouth to introduce herself. "Greetings Woman Who Walks, dear daughter of the Humans, born of Feather Dancer and Wolf Singer into the Turtle Clan, speaker of the Sacred Language Of All", the slightly larger of the two Eagles spoke first. Woman Who Walks felt a blush as she wondered, what sacred language? "I am Phoenix, Feathered son of Hope and Wind Chaser, born to the Wind Clan and new mate to Rainbow", he finished by turning his head towards his companion. Woman Who Walks was struck by how golden their beaks were, and how formal his words sounded. The smaller Eagle looked like she curtsied slightly, then said, "I am Rainbow, Feathered daughter of Rain Cloud and Thunder Song, also born to the Wind Clan and new resident of this fine valley Mother has carved with her hills and streams". "Welcome Woman Who Walks, please accept our gratitude for joining us on this gifted Winter day". "I am honored to meet you Rainbow and Phoenix of the Wind Clan, and cannot begin to express my delight at accepting your generous invitation", Woman Who Walks replied, recognizing her cue. She was still distracted by the Sacred Language business. Then another word the female Eagle had spoken caught her attention. Resident, had she said resident? Did this mean they were going to be here, all the time? "Many Winters the Wind Clan has traveled to these hills because we cannot fish the frozen streams and lakes of our homes during that cold season". Phoenix spoke again. "Some of us have come to love the streams, lakes and mountains of this land you call Ozark. Plus, many of the homes of the Wind Clans have become overcrowded. It has been suggested that perhaps the younger Sons and Daughters could begin new clans. Rainbow and I have chosen your valley for the home of our new clan". "We chose this valley for another reason", Rainbow spoke with a voice that sounded a little like the Wind in Summer, brushing across tree tops. "Eagle has an important new message to bring to our two-legged relations. Tree, Coyote and many other four-legged and plant relations have spoken your name as one who knows the Sacred Language of All". Again the woman's thoughts stumbled over this Sacred Language. "Phoenix and I came to this valley to meet you. We knew that we could deliver our new message through you to other two-leggeds". "Eagle represents the power of the two-legged's will to overcome", Phoenix continued. "There was a time when Eagle was gone from the Sky. Attempting to control their Mother, two-leggeds doused the land with poison that crept into every strand of life's web. Water, crops, everything we touched was infected with this poison. Soon our children stopped being born. We could bring forth our eggs, but just our efforts to warm the eggs would break them, aborting the life within". "It was almost too late when the two-leggeds realized what they had done" Rainbow picked up the story. "Still, they took action to fix the problem. Humans came together to solve the problem they had created. They wrote laws and punished those two-leggeds that broke them. They found other ways to combat insect relations that interloped on their crops. They invested money in labs where eggs could be rescued from the wild and raised. They nurtured these Eagle babies as their own, then returned them to the homes of the ancient Eagle clans". "Yet, despite this lesson, you two-leggeds are still repeating your destructive behavior, as if you are unaware of the delicate threads of life woven around you. You must be reminded, and this is the message we ask you to take with you Woman Who Walks. So much will be lost if you do not remember". A fatal urgency had entered Rainbow's voice, and it made the woman shiver. "I carry the name Phoenix to share the message of rebirth from destruction. Just as the hand of humans took Eagle to the brink of absolute death, love and determined intent brought us back. I am the child born of that destruction. My grandparents were both hatched in labs and nursed by the power of the human's love for life. My blood is the legacy of that power". "Each of you carries the power to change the course of history. Collectively you can create peace out of the war intentions of your leaders. Collectively you can force the market and politics to behave in ways that do not harm your Mother or Father. Never doubt the power of your common will to alter destiny. You just have to want it with a pure and unwavering intent". "I am named Rainbow for mine is a message of hope. I carry the promise of calm following the storm. That the devastation of rain, wind, thunder and lightening is actually the essence of creation. I bring you the belief that all is possible, even in the face of a great enemy, peril and uncertainty. It is in these trials that your strength is honed, your power and intent sharpened for the battle of light over dark". "For my hopeful message is a fuel that fires your intent. You must be able to believe that on the darkest night, in the deepest pain, in the loneliest heart there will be a conclusion to your suffering that will reward all. Just as when the Eagle's plight appeared to be without hope, you did not become hopeless. Instead, you took up the light to bring back life to that which you had almost made barren." Woman Who Walks had forgotten all about the Sacred Language as she listened to the Eagles' message. Of all the times she had watched the Eagles soaring, not once had these thoughts occurred to her. It was time for her to speak. "I have watched you many times, your wings spread against Father Sky, playing on the Wind. Each time my heart has soared with you, filled with an unexpressed joy. Now I understand the message of your flight as I did not before. I also understand the importance of sharing your words. I will be honored to take them with me and send them out into the two-legged's world in any way that I can." The three sat briefly on the creek's bank, their silence served as a seal on their agreement. Then Rainbow and Phoenix took flight. Woman Who Walks watched as they disappeared across the valley and up into the trees covering the hill's top. My tea is cold and my fingers ache from writing so fast. "What's the matter dear, didn't you like my tea?" -+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+-- SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Your Everyday Sweetheart Contest! -+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+-- What's Happening At Ozark Rock Exchange? |
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