ORE's Featured Gemstone: Apatite

Apatite's name comes from a Greek word, apatao (apate, apatan), that means deception or to deceive. They called it a deceitful stone because its appearance has been confused with other stones. Even in its crystal state it has been mistaken for Tourmalines and Beryls.

However, it doesn't seem right to blame the crystal for our misidentification. This is not a crystal that behaves in a deceitful manner.

Apatites are crystals of Calcium Phosphate. Fluorine, Chlorine and Hyroxyl influence the type of crystal that results in Fluorapatite, Chlorapatite or Hydroxylapatite. Though some of each element is present in almost every Apatite crystal, with rarer specimens consisting totally of just one of the elements.

Crystals can be long or stubby six sided (hexagonal), very similar to the Beryl, or long columns like Tourmaline. Some crystals are flat and tabular, others grow into needles (acicular), and some have even formed into stalactites. Apatite crystals are some of the very first ones to form in Pegmatites and ore veins that are created by volcanic or hydrothermal activities.

Massive blocks are found in igneous and some sedimentary stone formations . These cryptocrystalline (Chalcedony is cryptocrystalline) formations are sometimes called Collophane are a major source for phosphate rocks(phosphorites) and fossil bones. Phosphorites are the primary source of phosphorus, an element plants and animals need to survive. Rain and weather break down and erode the phosphorus from the stone, which is dissolved into the soil then absorbed by plants. Which in turn use it to build cell structure. Animals eat the plants absorbing phosphorus to build strong bones and teeth.

This gemstone is found in a variety of colors, from earthy brown crystals to neon blue, purple, green, yellow and even red stones have been found. This rainbow of colors is another reason for the stone's reputation for confusion. Apatite is found in abundance around the world, but a few locations have produced some uniquely exquisite specimens.

Mount Apatite in Maine USA has shared a vibrant violet gemstone with us. Madagascar and Tanzania's neon blue and turquoise crystals are world famous. Golden yellow gems of Apatite come from Durango Mexico and rich green crystals (originally thought to be Tourmaline) have been found in San Diego California. Russia and Germany have what some consider to be the finest bluish purple gemstones. Sri Lanka produces an Apatite that exhibits a shimmering cat's eye.

Another interesting place that Apatite is found is the mouths of mammals. It is one of the minerals that make up our teeth. The Ivory on an Elephant is 65% Apatite, the rest is collogen (which is composed of Copper).

Most of the world's Apatite is broken down into phosphates for industrial fertilizers. These phosphates are also used in chemical and pharmaceutical applications. As one of the softer crystals, it has not been a popular gemstone for jewelry, despite Apatite's vivid colors. Faceting the stone is difficult and it is easily scratched or broken unless worn in a protective setting, preferably not a ring. Steam and ultra sonic cleaners should not be used to physically cleanse Apatite jewelry.

I found no references that indicated stones were radiated or heat-treated by the jewelry industry. You can be pretty confident that an Apatite jewelry piece (if you can find it) will be what it says it is.

While the Apatite has a long history with Humans, there seems to be very few traditions associated with it. This may be a result of our earlier misunderstandings about the gemstone's identity. A confused ancient history should not stop us from adopting this loving gemstone into our lives.

Apatite crystals are wonderful companions if you work in service to your fellow relations. Healers, teachers, counselors and other professions dedicated to the aid of others will find their communication skills greatly improved by carrying this gemstone. It will assist you in recognizing situations and lessons that will be beneficial for both you and your student/patient.

If your emotions tend to override your reason on a much too regular basis, Apatite will help you balance this out. Allowing you to eliminate the confusion and fear that causes your feelings to overreact to a situation. Calming energies from this gemstone will give you time to breath, and approach your problem from a mental perspective instead of an emotional one.

Students can use this stone to help heighten their intellectual skills. As a study crystal, Apatite helps you to "experience" your lessons so that you understand new information on a more fundamental level.

Are you painfully shy at parties and other gatherings? Carry an Apatite, feel your confidence increase and suddenly you are the life of the party. This is a stone that loves bringing people together. It brings a sense of security and harmony, instilling trust so that we overcome the inhibitions that keep us from connecting with each other.

The blue and purple varieties of this gemstone are excellent for improving your intuitive and psychic skills. It is believed to be a vision stone and it has a very strong effect on the 6th, Third Eye Chakra. Apatite may also add strength to your creative workings and will enhance your intentions when used in conjunction with other gemstones.

Gold and red Apatite crystals are wonderful motivators. Working with the second the third Chakra, they can help you stay focused and on-target while you are working towards your goal.

Earthy brown crystals are highly protective and Cat's Eye stones from Sri Lanka have been used for protection against the so-called "evil eye".

If your new year's resolution included a diet, Apatite comes highly recommended (in almost every reference) as an appetite suppressant. It is also believed to help stimulate the appetite when the body needs to correct an imbalance. Healers that already use stones in their therapy will find it greatly improves the vibrations and strengths of your other crystals.

Phosphorus that comes from the phosphates in Apatite is important building blocks for cells and bones. Elixirs of Apatite would probably be beneficial to anyone healing from illnesses that attack the cells, like Cancer. It should also aid with bone strength, healthier teeth and relief from joint pains.

SUBSCRIBER'S SPECIAL: FREE Apatite Beads!

Receive four small Apatite chip beads 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 4, 2004 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 2, 2004. Remember you never pay extra for shipping at Ozark Rock Exchange!

SKY NOTES

Imbolc Crossquarter day, Wednesday February 4
Full Moon, Friday February 6 3:47 am ET
Fourth Quarter Moon, Friday February 13 8:39 am ET
Valentine's Day, Saturday February 14
New Moon, Friday February 20 4:18 am ET
Mardi Gras aka Fat Tuesday, Tuesday February 24
Ash Wednesday, Wednesday February 25
Second Quarter Moon, Friday February 27 10:24 pm ET
Leap Day, Sunday February 29 2004

Creating A Stone Circle
by Stephanie Pflumm

In almost every tradition, when you are meditating or working with the
mysterious creative energies of the Universe it is recommended that you do so within the safety of a circle. It can be as simple as drawing a circle in the dirt with a staff, knife or stick, or an elaborate ceremonial circle enhanced with sacred symbols of protection.

As a student of the stones, and since many of my meditations are for
learning from crystals and stones, it only seemed appropriate to create my ceremonial circle using Mother's gems. Because I feel very close to the rhythms of Mother Earth's natural cycles and the richness of the four Seasons/Directions, I wanted to bring that energy I was so comfortable with into my circle. After some meditation and a visit with my favorite Rose Quartz, here is how I decided to create my Stone Circle.

Beginning with the first New Moon of Spring, I choose a stone that echoed Spring's energies and left it outside to charge through the full cycle to the next New Moon. To charge the stone, I set it on the East Altar in my yard, starting at the beginning (or as close to it as I could) of the New Moon. Leaving it out to absorb all the aspects of that cycle of Spring.

Through each of Spring's Moon cycles I charged a different crystal, each chosen to represent the many gifts of Spring; Air, rebirth, teachings. My first Spring stone was a Rose Quartz, because it has always been one of my favorite teachers. The Spring Moon and Sun also blessed a Quartz crystal egg and a stone borrowed from Missouri’s highest point. These stones would represent East and it's different blessings in my circle.

I repeated these steps for every season, for a whole year. While I was anxious to have my Circle, I also knew that patience needed to be practiced. Building my circle one Moon at a time was the only way I felt I could recreate the earth rhythms I wanted.

For the first new Moon of each season I choose a crystal that represented the primary element I honored in that season. Rose Quartz represents Air in the East (Spring) for me, because that is the first color Father Sky wears when the sunrise wakes Him each new day. Plus, to me, the new sunrise is one of Nature's most profound lessons. That no matter how dark the night, as long as you keep turning, the light will return.

In the South (Summer), a golden Tiger's Eye represents Fire, a stone borrowed from Lake Michigan honors Water in the West (Fall) and a rainbow Fluorite shows gratitude for Mother's colorful gifts at my North(Winter) point.

Some of the stones are nicely carved spheres or wands. Some were stones that spoke out as I passed during my different journeys. I acquired each stone at its appropriate time, never too soon.

You may want to incorporate other items into your Circle. Choose things because they invoke a response or emotion within you. This is where your creative energy begins. I choose to follow the seasons in creating my circle because I feel empowered and inspired by mysterious magic of this physical planet and universe. Follow your own inspirations to your power sources and choose symbols that help you tap into that.

Do you live in the city and your only safe access to the outdoors is a small balcony or windowsill? Find a larger stone (go to a garden center if you have to) that has a shape with a predominate point, like a triangle to use as your altar. Since you can't set up four altar points on a windowsill, tiny balcony or some backyards, use your large stone to change seasons. Each season turn your point to the direction you honor with that time of year. For instance, Winter is North for me.

Please keep in mind that the pattern I used to build my Stone Circle may not be correct for you. I share it in hopes that you will feel safe to experiment with your own instincts. There is no right or wrong way to honor and connect with your Divine Source. There is only the loss in not doing so.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Sweethearts Contest!

Lots of traditions like to celebrate love in the month of February. Especially the merchant traditions. Being a merchant, I thought I would follow suit and celebrate love with a special Sweethearts Contest.

Sweet Hearts come in all shapes and sizes and perform a variety of deeds in our lives that make big and little differences. They might be a brother, uncle, aunt, sister, lover, neighbor or stranger that eagerly gives their heart with a face always lit by the sweetest smile. Whoever this special SweetHeart might be, if you'll share them and your story with Ozark Rock Exchange, you both could win:

* Imperial Golden Topaz pendants - Natural Topaz crystals capped with sterling Silver (value $22 ea)

One for each of you. Matching (as close as natural crystals can match) gold Topaz pendants that echo the fire energies of Grandfather Sun and the power of love to change the world.

Don't worry about your writing skills, I will choose the winner by a random drawing, just write down your thoughts and your email will be entered into the drawing. Entry deadline is Midnight Tuesday March 2, 2004 (CST). The winner will be announced in the next issue of ORE FEATURES on Wednesday March 3 and on the web page below.

I hope to have pictures of the pendants up later this evening, I seem to be having trouble getting these bright little crystals into focus. When I have them ready, they will be at:

http://www.ozarkrockexchange.com/highlights/events/index.shtml