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Sapphire Crystal Mezuzah_Mystical Arts by Ruby

Sapphire History

Sapphire, the natal stone for September, has an interesting current and ancient history. Learn about it’s history and perhaps you will want to own one for yourself.

In Revelations, they were named as one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. The author, Damigeron, wrote in 200 AD ” Sapphire has been blessed with great honour by the gods, Kings wear it round their necks because it’s the most powerful protective stone.” The Buddhists believe it brings Spiritual Enlightenment” . It’s used in worship for the Hindus. During the Middle Ages, it was believed the celestial blue stone symbolized “heaven attracting wise judgment and divine favor”.

The Logan Sapphire, a more current stone, is named after Polly Logan. She received it as a gift in the 1950’s and donated it to the Smithsonian Institution in 1960. The 423 carat Logan Sapphire from Sri Lanka is a cushion cut stone, the second largest stone possessing a deep rich blue color. It weighs 422.99 carats. Today it’s set in a brooch surrounded by 20 brilliant cut diamonds, weighing 16 carats. It is displayed at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC.

In August 2015, the Star of Adam sapphire was discovered in Ratnapura, Southern Sri Lanka . It is an oval shaped blue gemstone and is the largest in the world, weighing 1404.49 carats. The current owner named it because he believed, as Muslims believe, that Adam arrived in Sri Lanka after leaving the garden of Eden to live on Adam’s Peak. That is definitely blending ancient and current history! The gemstone is valued at over 300 million.

It became a symbol of love in 1981, when Prince Charles gave Lady Diana a 12 carat oval blue sapphire engagement ring. In 2010, Prince William gave the ring to Catherine Middleton when he proposed.

Large deposits of the stone were found in Madagascar in the 1990’s. It is now the leading country in the world for sapphire production. Today they are also found in Australia, Africa, Brazil,China, Myanmar, North America, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka. Their origin can determine their carat size, colour, clarity, cut and value.

Sapphire is known to symbolize faith, friendship, loyalty, nobility and wisdom. It gets its name from the ancient Greek word “Sappherros”, meaning “blue stone”. The Greeks wore them for guidance from the Oracle, a person providing wise and insightful counsel inspired by the gods.

To care for your sapphire, it should be discharged and recharged in sea salt; avoid exposure to sunlight.

The Sapphire is attuned to Archangels Michael and Raziel. It brings the wearer calmness, serenity, and strengthens willpower, awakening your intuitive abilities.

The Sapphire Crystal Mezuzah pictured is a decorative mezuzah for your home. This historical symbol is adorned with sapphire blue “crystals”. It is 4″long 3/4″wide with a scroll and comes in a blue gift box.

Happy Birthday to all of my September Babies: Myra Mara, Chip, J’ai, Leigh, Kaylee, Ingrid, Doris, Nicole, and Max.

Wear Ruby for Love and Passion

“Ruber” is the Latin word that Ruby is derived from. It means “Red” and it was once used to describe all red stones. July’s Natal stone is Ruby. It ranges from pink to blood-red due to the a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide) where it gets it’s color. It is a very hard stone, almost as hard as a diamond.

The Ruby is one of the most highly prized of gemstones. As it’s value increases, more than any other gemstone, it is becoming more difficult to find large stones.

In the Mogok Valley in Upper Burma the finest and rarest stones are found. They are known as “pigeon ‘s blood” for their intense red color. Thailand is also known for their dark brownish – red stones. Burma and Thailand both regard it as their National Stone.

In ancient Asian stories, the Ruby was described as “self-luminous”; it was called “glowing stone” or ” lamp stone”. During the Middle Ages, it was thought to bring good health and protection from the plague.

To care for your Ruby, it should be discharged twice a month under running warm water and then recharged in the sunlight for two hours. Wear or give as a gift to symbolizes Love and Passion. You might consider a ruby gift for July birthdays or special occasions.

Did you know that this stone is attuned to Archangels Jophiel and Michael? It strengthens love and the wearer’s awareness of their heart’s connections.

Another fun fact: real Ruby Slippers were created by Harry Winston for “The Wizard of Oz”, to commemorate it’s 50th anniversary with 4,600 actual gemstones! These are a pair of shoes anyone would love to wear!

Happy Birthday to All of my July Babies!! Samantha Ashley, Alexandra,Ernestine, Kim, Linda, Rochelle, Shelley, James, Mandi, Nathan, and Beata.

Emerald, Stone of Travelers

The Emerald is known as the protection stone of travelers. This is because Mercury is the messenger of the God of travel, and Mercury has been associated with the Emerald from ancient mythology. The Emerald with it’s beautiful green color, is May’s natal stone. If you are taking a trip in May, take along this stone of travelers for protection!

Emeralds are very old. Many tools dating back to 1300 BC, during the Ramses second reign, have been found in the Emerald mines in Egypt. The foundation of the Pharaohs wealth came from the Emeralds in the Red Sea Vicinity. It’s believed that Cleopatra ‘s Emeralds originated from the mines in southern Egypt, near the Red Sea.

One of the famous Emerald historic artifacts is the “Crown of the Andes”. It is made of 450 emeralds, and is 1523 carats. It was worn by Atahualpa, the last Inca King of Peru. As of December 2015, the crown belongs to the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

The largest and highest quality of Emeralds were produced in Colombia. Around 1830, Emeralds were discovered and mined in the aural mountains of Russia. Emeralds are also mined in Austria, Australia, Brazil, India, Madagascar, Norway, Pakistan, Zambia, and North Carolina in the United States.

Emerald fragments are still used today to stabilize vision, to strengthen a weak eye. The green emerald symbolizes “Hope and Development”. It is known as the all purpose healing stone. It is also a traditional gift for those celebrating 20th or 35th anniversaries. Emeralds are relatively strong gemstones, registering 7.5 – 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

The Emerald is attuned to Archangels Haniel, Jophiel, Raziel, and Raphael bringing the wearer deepen Consciousness and Spirituality.

Happy Birthday to All of My May Babies: Doreen, Enid, Dickey, Mimi, Pat, Tanya,and Louis. Wishing Everyone a Safe and Happy Memorial Day wherever your travels take you!

Please note that the Mercury portrait on a bronze is by Rc 13. CC BY-SA 3.0.

Diamond, most prized gemstone

Diamonds have been around for centuries. Did you know that the ancient Hindus believed diamonds were created by bolts of lightning? Diamond, the most prized gemstone, is April’s Natal Stone.

Diamonds first became a popular gem in India. The Imperial Colony and moghuls mined for them along three major rivers. One of the most famous diamonds is the Koh-I-Noor, called “Mountain of Light”. It is believed to be 5000 years old. It was originally owned by Rajah of Malwa. The Koh- I- Noor was in possession of the mogul dynasty from 1526 – 1739. It was then owned by Shad Jehan who built the Taj Mahal. Nadir Shad owned it briefly till 1747. It was eventually surrendered to Ranjit Singh. After his death, it came under British rule. In 1841 the diamond was presented to Queen Victoria, who had it cut from 187 carats to 108 carats. She believed it would enhance it’s beauty. After her death, the diamond became a part of the British Crown Jewels. It was wore in Queen Elizabeth’s crown at her 1937 coronation.

A diamond is a carbon crystal, which is an ultimate form of symmetry. The stone is 58 times harder than anything else in nature. There are many colors of diamonds: blue, black, pink, red, and yellow. They are also colourless, transparent, translucent, and opaque. Since fancy colored diamonds are desirable, the color is sometimes introduced in labs. These are called “color treated diamonds “. The more saturated the color, the higher the value of these gems.

The diamond symbolizes enduring love, and is most favoured for engagement rings. Look for the 4C’S of Diamond quality when shopping for these gems. They are: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.

The Diamond is attuned to Archangel Raziel bringing Clarity, Commitment, enhances Love, Prosperity, and Spirituality to the wearer.

Happy Birthday to all of my April Babies: Joseph Allen, Emilie Erena, Marissa, George, Joey, Jennie, Nathan, and Samantha.

aquamarine and bloodstone: birthstones of earth and water

Choose Aquamarine And Bloodstone

March has two natal birthstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone

Aquamarine means ” Water of the Sea”.

In ancient times, it was believed the Aquamarine was the treasure of mermaids, bringing fearlessness, good luck, and protection to sailors, and travelers of the sea, alleviating the fear of water. It’s a great stone if your are learning to swim! The Aquamarine is also considered the stone of “Happiness and Eternal Youth “.

The Romans believed this blue stone possessed healing and medicinal powers; curing the jaws, liver, throat, and stomach ailments. It’s said that over 2000 years ago, Emperor Nero used the Aquamarine for eyeglasses. In Germany many years later, Aquamarines were used to correct shortsightedness. The Throat Chakra is associated with the Aquamarine, helping to overcome the fear of public speaking.

The best places to obtain Aquamarine is Brazil, Columbia, Colorado, Maine, North Carolina, India, Malagasy, and Ural Mountain of Russia. The Aquamarine is attuned to Archangels Ariel and Raguel bringing balance to the emotional, mental, and physical bodies.

Bloodstone is called “Sun Stone, later Christ Stone”.

The classic bloodstone is green jasper with red inclusions of hematite. Legend states that the Bloodstone represents the wounds of Christ and drops of his blood fell on the green earth which turned to stone, during his crucifixion. The Bloodstone is also known as Heliotrope, the ” Stone of Babylon” by Albert the Great. During the Middle Ages the Bloodstone was believed to have healing powers to stop nose bleeds, draw out snake venom, stop hemorrhaging, and cure tumors.

Today it’s known as the gem of ” Noble Sacrifice “. To carry or wear Heliotrope protects against verbal and physical bullying or threats, giving guidance to withdraw and courage to confront the abuser. It also helps in adjusting to new circumstances, giving strength to the wearer, increases mental clarity and further aids in decision making. The stone is known to increase energy and endurance in physical activity. Always carry one during sport competitions or matches!

The Bloodstone is particularly stimulating to the base and heart chakras to cleanse and realign. The best places to obtain Bloodstone is Australia, Brazil, China, Czech Republic, India, Russia, and the United States. The Bloodstone is attuned to Archangel Raphael bringing Fame, Good Fortune, Respect and Riches to the owner.

Lucky March birthdays can choose Aquamarine, Bloodstone, or Both. Happy Birthday to all of my March Babies: Katlin, Alise, Marcia, Brigitte, Bella, Olivia, Victor, Ms. Bobbie, Amy, Maggie, Sylwia, Carole, Debbie, Terri, Susan, and Robbie Nicole.

Amethyst is a Cardinal Stone

Amethyst is a Cardinal stone, along with Emeralds, Diamonds, Rubies, and Sapphires. They were considered rare and precious for many years. The stone was said to protect crops, bring good fortune in war, drive out evil spirits and inspire the intellect. The rich violet-purple color of this Cardinal Stone is the color of royalty. It comes in all shades of purple, lilac and mauve. Amethyst is February ‘s Natal Stone and makes a nice gift.

In the 18th century, the discovery of extensive deposits of Amethyst in Brazil made the gems lose some of their value. The value of Amethyst is mostly related to its color display. The “Deep Russian” is the highest grade of Amethyst stone, because of its color, a deep purple with a slight blue hue. The “Deep Russian” is no longer produced, which adds to its value. The stone is also found in Africa, Canada, Germany, Mexico, Russia, United States, and Uruguay.

The word Amethyst comes from the Greek word ” Amethystos” meaning sober. The ancient Greeks wore and made drinking vessels decorated with Amethyst to prevent intoxication and evil thoughts. The Tibetans made prayer beads from the stone and consider the Amethyst sacred to Buddha.

In the Chinese philosophy of Feng Shui, the Amethyst enhances the wealth corner focusing on the giving and receiving of material wealth. At the highest level, Amethyst bestows the spiritual understanding required to reach the state of bliss.

It is believed that Cleopatra wore an Amethyst ring engraved with the figure Mithra, who symbolized the ” Divine Idea of Light and Life”. The Egyptians also believed this cardinal stone would dispel sleep, sharpen intellect, and protect from sorcery.

Amethysts are very sensitive to heat so keep out of sun. They will change color!

The Amethyst is attuned to the Archangel Michael. It brings meditation and psychic abilities, along with sobriety, spirituality, and wisdom, to the wearer. Happy Birthday to all of my February Babies: Roxanne, Anna, Nelson, Bartola, Martin, Paul, and My Asian Daughter Sui.

Small hoop turquoise earrings_Mystical Arts by Ruby

Unique December birthstones

Did you know that December has three birthstones that are all unique shades of blue? TheDecember birthstones are the Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise.

The Blue Zircon is the “Stone of Virtue”

The Zircon is the oldest mineral on earth. It’s mined in Australia , Cambodia Canada, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand. and the United States. The blue zircon is the first of the December birthstones. During the Middle Ages was thought to promote Honor, Prosperity, Spiritual Growth, Wisdom, and protect the wearer when traveling. The gemstone brings confidence, compassion and guidance to achieve your goals. The blue zircon stone will scratch easily so be sure to handle your zircon with care.

Tanzanite is the “Stone of Magic” and one of the unique December birthstones.

In 1967 near the foothills of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro the zoisite was discovered. This velvety blue colored stone, makes it a very rare and expensive gem. ” Tiffany & Company recognized the blue gem’s potential and agreed to be the main distributor with a promotional campaign in 1968 renaming the stone “Tanzanite” after Tanzania. Tanzanite is better for earrings and pendants than it is for rings due to it’s ability to scratch easily. It is the second of the December birthstones.

Turquoise is the “Master Healer”

Turquoise is mined in Armenia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Iran, Mexico, Southwest America, and Tibet.
The oldest turquoise mines are located in Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The Egyptians called turquoise Mefkat which meant “Joy and Delight”. King Tut’s burial mask and tomb was adorned with Turquoise.
It’s Iran that has the best turquoise, which is their National Gem. They named turquoise Pirouzeh, which meant ” Victory”. The Persians said the reflection of the New Moon on a turquoise brought good luck and guarded against evil. It was considered a Love Charm by some.
For the last several thousand years the American Southwest Turquoise has a excellent history with the Native American Indians. The Hopi, Navajo, Pueblo, and Zuni Indians made amazing earrings, necklaces , rings and ceremonial pieces. They called Turquoise ” Chal- cui- hui – tai” meaning the highest and most valued thing in the world”. The United States is now the world’s largest supplier of turquoise. It is worn by many people born in December. It is one of the the most popular of the December birthstones. If you are shopping for a special turquoise piece, be sure to check out our Three Strand Turquoise Necklace or our small hoop turquoise earrings, featured here.
This blue gemstone is sensitive to Makeup, Perfumes, Natural Oils, and direct Sunlight.
Happy Birthday to all of My December Babies: Bene, Katherine , Lynda, Janine, Maryann. Jayne, Alison, Lana, Michael, Theria, Lorie, Laura, Hollie, Sam, Charles, Jake, and Kaylee.

Golden Topaz Stone

The golden topaz stone symbolizes the “Joy of Life”. This golden colored topaz is the November Natal Stone. On the zodiac birthstone list, it is a Leo and a Scorpio birthstone. The topaz stone also comes in numerous other colors, including blue, pink, white, and golden to orange. Most golden topaz stones come from Russia and Brazil, but there are also topaz mines in Mexico, Utah, Colorado and Texas. Golden topaz stones make beautiful jewelry, which allow you to keep it close to your body chakras where it has a beneficent effect.

The golden topaz stone is believed to stimulate digestion and metabolism. In ancient times, the topaz was used to control excessive anger and heat, increase wisdom, strengthen the mind and prevent nightmares. The Bible considers it a protection stone of the New Jerusalem. After each wearing, it is recommended that you care for your topaz stone by cleansing under running lukewarm water and then place your topaz in sunlight for a few hours to be recharged.

The topaz is attuned to Archangel Michael bringing love, well being, and the attraction of wealth to the wearer. Happy Birthday to all of my November Babies: My Beloved Johnny Boy, Isabel, Jennifer, Marisol, John and Madison .

This Fire Opal is one of October birthstones. They come in a rainbow of colors

Mystical Meaning of Opal

The mystical meaning of Opal is: “Hope and Love”. It is the Natal Stone of October. The Opal exhibits iridescent colors, which in ancient times was believed to be a warning of Bad Luck or Witchcraft.

However, in Asian cultures the Opal is known as “Anchor of Hope” which encourages understanding the higher powers of mysticism and intuition to the wearer. The Opal is attuned to Archangels Haniel and Uriel bringing the wearer much Confidence, Faithfulness, and Harmony.

Did you know that Queen Victoria is credited with making this gem very popular after she presented her children with Opal jewelry? If you are interested in collecting Opals, be sure to check out our featured fire opal. This stunning stone measures 6 ½” x 3″ x 6 ½”.

Caring Tips for Opal Jewelry

Opals are very fragile and therefore susceptible to scratches. Use only mild cleaners and non-abrasive cloths when cleaning the surface of your opal stone. Try storing your opal in a small airtight bag.

Opals are very sensitive to temperature change. Since we are heading into the cooler winter months, it is a good idea to keep your opal concealed under clothing when entering and exiting a warm car or house.

Opals are absorbent and can become damaged by make-up, perfumes and household chemicals such as dish soap or shampoo. These will remove the sparkling shimmer.

Happy Birthday to all of my October Babies: Grams, Ann, Janice, Marketa, Don, Stephen, Linda, Rick, Ziggy, Suzanne, Kaerys, and Lottie.

Care of Sapphires

Sapphires should be discharged and at the same time recharged, in sea salt. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight.

Did you know it is the natal stone for September? It is sometime called ” The Wisdom Stone”. The Sapphire is known to quiet the mind, so the truth can be heard. It brings calmness and serenity to the wearer.” In Revelations, Sapphire is known as one of the foundation stones of New Jerusalem “.

The Sapphire is attuned to Archangels Michael and Raziel; bringing Faith, Enhances Intuitive abilities and Willpower to the wearer.

Happy Birthday to all My September Babies: Myra Mara, Jai, Leigh, Ingrid, Kaylee, Max, Nicole, Steven, CarolAnn, and Doris.