Septaria or turtle stone is one of the varieties of cryptocrystalline nodules in sedimentary rocks, with cracks or veins inside. It is believed that products made from this mineral are endowed with special properties.
History and origin
The first mention of turtle stone comes from the times of Antiquity, when people began to mine and process it. Septaria is a unique mineral, which is a concretion, inside the cracks of which crystals of quartz, calcite, siderite and other rocks have formed.
It is believed that the existing deposits of this mineral were formed about 50 million years ago. The formation of stones occurred on the ocean floor. The algorithm according to which the septaria was formed has already been established. First, layers of rock were layered around the core, which most often were shells and other remains of marine inhabitants. This led to the formation of nodules.
Gradually the deposits accumulated. It is believed that volcanic activity contributed to this. Erupted ash settled on the seabed, causing the death of its inhabitants. Pressure increased on the lower layers, which led to the appearance of cracks in the rock. The formed internal cavities were filled with crystals of other minerals. This process results in an unusual cloisonné pattern within the mineral. The color of the inclusions depends on which minerals got inside the core.
Septaria stone deposits
The current deposits of septaria are located on the site of dried-up oceans and seas. The mineral is not rare. It is currently mined in:
- New Zealand;
- China;
- USA;
- Morocco;
- England;
- Russia;
- Madagascar.
The color palette of stones and their value depends on the place where they were mined.
Physicochemical characteristics
By composition, septaria usually consist of siderite, marl, or pyrite. Marl - sedimentary rock of variable composition, consisting of clay and carbonate minerals. The composition usually contains calcite (40 - 60%), less often - dolomite. Siderite - a mineral from the calcite group, iron carbonate FeCO3.
The main part of the septaria is limestone rocks. In this case, they are formed from calcium carbonate. If the rock is formed by magnesium carbonate, then it will be dolomitic. Regardless of the underlying carbonate, unique fracture formations appear in it. They are filled with crystals of minerals, which become partitions - septa. Most often, partitions are formed by galena, calcite, dolomite, quartz, barite, pyrite.
Varieties and colors
Depending on the size of the septaria, there are 2 species, which are conditionally called "beetles" and "tortoises":
- The first category includes stones whose size does not exceed a few centimeters. They often have an unusual bright color.
- The second category includes stones that reach several meters in length.
A special variety is made by partitions that differ in shades, depending on the crystals that formed them:
- white - limestone;
- gray - chalcedony;
- yellow - calcite;
- brown - aragonite;
- pink-red - manganese.
The high content of aragonite in the sample ensures the presence of brown veins of varying degrees of intensity. Inclusions of chalcedony give the veins a gray tint. At the same time, the inclusion of limestone provides the white color of the veins. More rare are stones that have pink and reddish streaks. Such samples are distinguished by a high content of manganese.
Applications
Now septaria, belonging to the category of "beetles", is used to make jewelry. Such specimens are rarely used as an ornamental stone. Stones belonging to the "turtle" category are often used as raw materials for creating crafts and souvenirs of varying degrees of complexity.
Large specimens are used to make mantels, countertops, and even stair treads. Polished specimens are used as a finishing material. They are often covered with facades, and are also used in the design of sidewalks and adjoining areas, etc. A crumb of this mineral is included in some building mixtures.
Medicinal properties
Traditional healers claim that septaria has pronounced healing properties. It is believed that this mineral has a special energy that allows you to maintain self-control and easier to survive any stress. In addition, lithotherapy with the use of this stone helps to cope with diseases of the teeth and skin.
Some healers claim that the energy of the stone can adversely affect malignant cells. Septaria also helps to eliminate headaches and gives vitality. It is believed that the location of this mineral at the head of the bed promotes sound sleep and protection from nightmares.
In addition, the mineral helps to reduce the severity of symptoms of stomach diseases, accompanied by high acidity. In order for the healing effect to be maximum, the stone must be worn as close as possible to the diseased organ.
Magical properties
It is believed that the septaria creates a powerful positive biofield. Wearing such a talisman can give a person a sense of self-confidence. In addition, the mineral helps to tune in to a positive mood, being more good-natured and tolerant of others. It helps to increase sociability and gives strength to more easily survive any cardinal changes in life.
For some people who have experienced grief or a great loss, this mineral is able to return vital energy and helps to find a new purpose. The stone can act as a source of inspiration. He can inspire confidence in his own strength to achieve his goals and complete any undertakings.
It is believed that the septaria is a powerful amulet against the evil eye. This stone is able to drive away from a person his acquaintances who have malicious intent. In addition, such a talisman helps to avoid accidental losses and failures.
Nevertheless, there are no contraindications for septaria that limit their use as a personal stone used as a talisman or amulet. It can be worn by everyone to whom the qualities of the mineral will be useful. When choosing your stone, be guided by the universal wishes of lithotherapists and astrologers:
- When choosing a stone, you should hold it in your hand. If it suits you, you will feel a surge of positive emotions and peace.
- If other stones are supposed to be worn, you need to understand how compatible the septaria is with them. Wearing amulets of incompatible stones can lead to a negative result.
Jewelry with mineral
A small septaria, which is highly decorative, is turned to create cabochons, pendants, brooches and inserts for rings and earrings. For frames, brass, silver and jewelry alloys are more often used. Gold for the frame is rarely used.
In addition, the stone is used to create beads and elaborate necklaces. The mineral is rarely cut. Considering that each stone has an original pattern, each product using it is unique.
Stone cost
Septaria is considered an ornamental stone, not a jewelry one, therefore it is relatively affordable. The price of the mineral depends on the place of extraction, the color palette of the veins and the degree of processing. Septaria calcite, mined in Madagascar, costs about 15 euros. At the same time, the price of balloons with a diameter of up to 5,5 cm, obtained in this region, reaches 20 euros. Septaria pebbles, mined from deposits in Morocco, cost about 7 euros. Cabochons mined and processed in Russia cost up to 8 euros.
Jewelry care
Caring for jewelry made from this stone is easy. They should be protected from temperature extremes and falls. Due to the presence of cracks inside the mineral, chips may appear. To eliminate contamination, it is enough to periodically clean the mineral with a soft cloth dipped in warm soapy water. The frame should be cleaned with products specially designed for this purpose.
How to wear
Products with septaria have a non-standard original look, therefore they are universal. Their soft beauty will be appropriate at a business event and in the office. They also go well with casual wear designed for meetings with friends. Decorations with a septaria will be appropriate both for a day walk and for a youth party.
How to distinguish a fake
Septaria is a relatively inexpensive ornamental stone, so it is rarely faked. However, some unscrupulous sellers try to pass off low-quality quartz and glass products as this mineral.
To distinguish a mineral, you need to carefully examine it. Inside it will be a large number of intersecting cracks. In addition, it should be tapped. The sound should be loud enough.
Compatibility with Zodiac signs
("+++" - the stone fits perfectly, "+" - can be worn, "-" - absolutely contraindicated):
| Zodiac sign | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Aries | + |
| Taurus | + |
| Gemini | + |
| Cancer | + |
| a lion | + |
| Virgo | + |
| Scales | + |
| Scorpio | + |
| Sagittarius | + + + |
| Capricorn | + |
| Aquarius | + |
| Pisces | + |
It is believed that this mineral goes well with all signs of the zodiac. However, it is most suitable for Sagittarius.
Interesting about the stone
- The most interesting pattern of septaria is obtained on the cut. A good cut can only be made by professionals.
- In ancient Rome, houses were trimmed with septaria. It was believed that she would not let evil spirits into the house.
- Due to the round shape of the concretions, for a long time they were considered to be petrified dragon eggs.
- The owners of septaria come into contact with the distant past. After all, some of the samples are tens of millions of years old.
