Scolecite is a mineral of the silicate class, also known as needle stone or ellagite. The name scolecite comes from the Greek "skolex" - "worm". The stone was so named for its ability to wriggle in the fire, like a worm.
History and origin
The mineral was first discovered in 1813 by German scientists I.N. von Fuchs and A.F. Gehlen during the study of samples of volcanic rocks mined in Germany.
The associated minerals of scolecite are calcites, prenites, and zeolites.
Reference! Scolecite is very similar in appearance to natrolite. In order to distinguish them, minerals are tested by exposure to fire - in scolecite in a flame, worm-like curvature of the fibers will become noticeable.
In addition to the flame, the mineral can be determined using chemical analysis.
Place of Birth
There are not so many natural deposits of scolecite. Most often, the mineral is found in the USA, Brazil, India and Scotland. There are also several deposits on the territory of the Russian Federation - in the Krasnoyarsk Territory and in the Urals.
Physical and chemical properties of the stone
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Formula | CaAl2Si3O10•3H2O |
| Impurity | Na, K |
| Hardness | 5 - 5,5 |
| Density | 2,25 - 2,29 g / cm³ |
| Refractive index | nα = 1,507 - 1,513 nβ = 1,516 - 1,520 nγ = 1,517 - 1,521 |
| Syngonia | Monoclinic |
| Kink | Rough, conchoidal |
| Cleavage | Perfect |
| Brilliance | Glass |
| Transparency | Transparent, translucent |
| Line color | White |
| Color | Colorless, white, pink, red, green |
Chemical composition:
| Chemical element | % | % oxide |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium | 10,22 | 14,29 |
| Aluminum | 13,75 | 25,99 |
| Silicon | 21,48 | 45,94 |
| Hydrogen | 1,54 | 13,78 |
| Oxygen | 53,01 | - |
When dehydrated at temperatures above 225°C, it transforms into metascolecite.
Varieties and colors
Most often, the stone is found in pure white or with a hint of ivory. Sometimes, if any impurities are present in the mineral, it can acquire yellow, blue, pink or reddish hues. In addition, scolecite has a mother-of-pearl surface.
Reference! If you look closely, then on the surface of the stone you can see small tubes that form a kind of pattern. This feature makes the scolecite look like a living creature.
Applications
Scolecite is a fairly rare decorative stone that is highly valued by collectors. It is also quite popular in jewelry - jewelry with scolecite simply amaze with its magical appeal.
Medicinal properties
It is impossible not to mention the use of scolecite in lithotherapy (treatment with stones). According to experts, the mineral has a huge positive effect on the human nervous system. No wonder it is called a peacemaker stone.
In addition, regular interaction with scolecite:
- increases the body's immune forces, performance and endurance;
- improves vision;
- improves blood quality;
- treats diseases of the spine.
The mineral brings maximum benefit when in contact with the body. A good option would be the location of the stone in the bedroom, near the bed.
Magical properties
Scolecite is a stone of peace. A person who owns it finds peace of mind and harmony with himself. It promotes relaxation, clears the mind, makes it receptive to the surrounding beauty and the world, and resistant to negativity and destruction.
The magic of the mineral is especially strong when it interacts with the region of the third eye. It clears thoughts, makes a person more calm and reasonable, relieves emotional overstrain, increases the ability to concentrate and find rational solutions in any situation.
This stone is a real find for people prone to emotional experiences and nervous strains. This stone can become a powerful energy amulet. It is especially recommended to pick it up after nightmares or heavy dreams - the stone will drive away fear and anxiety in just a minute.
Jewelry with mineral
Jewelery with scolecite is a real work of art. Any product with it catches the eye, causing indescribable delight and admiration. The stone is used as the main decorative detail on rings, pendants, brooches, earrings, etc. Jewelry with large stones looks especially chic.
Stone cost
Despite their value, mineral products are distinguished by their affordability. Approximate prices for products or blanks with scolecite are:
- silver pendant - 50 euros;
- jewelry alloy ring with a 2x4 cm stone - 10-15 euros;
- silver ring - 20-25 euros;
- cabochons (cut stones) 3-10 cm, India - 2-12 euros;
- tumbling 2-3,5 cm, India - 5-10 euros;
- druse (joint stones) 6x7 cm, India - 40 euros;
- mineral needles 2-3 g, 5,5-7,1 cm, India - 8-13 euros.
Jewelry care
Having an average density on the Mohs scale, scolecite is a fairly fragile stone. Therefore, when using stone and products with it, it must be remembered that:
- the mineral turns pale and tarnishes in direct sunlight;
- it should be protected from bumps, falls and other aggressive mechanical influences;
- scolecite does not tolerate high temperatures, household chemicals and abrasive materials.
Clean the stone only with a soft cloth and running water. You can not wear products with a mineral in the gym, on the beach or in the pool.
How to wear
Scolecite will affect a person positively with any physical contact. However, the stone will have the most powerful effect if you wear a pendant with it. In this case, the scolecite will concentrate its energy in the region of the heart, cleansing the body and mind and granting peace and tranquility.
Reference! The heavier the pendant with the stone, the stronger its impact will be.
Scolecite has an extraordinary effect on the third eye chakra - the chakra of intuition and imagination. To draw the power of the stone to the third eye chakra, you can wear a headband, hair clip, earrings with stones, or a more daring option - a piercing with a stone in the eyebrow.
Reference! The stone can be placed directly on the chakra (forehead) during meditation or sleep.
How to distinguish from fakes
Often they try to pass off plastic or glass for scolecite. However, it is quite simple to distinguish a fake - with the help of fire or ultraviolet radiation. How a stone behaves in a flame was mentioned at the beginning of the article, but in ultraviolet rays, the mineral gives off a slight yellowish glow.
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 | + + + |
Scolecite is a stone of water signs. His favorites are Cancers and Pisces men.
- Crayfish mineral provides peace and comfort,
- Pisces - leadership and authority among the environment.
Interesting about the stone
Interestingly, scolecite pairs well with other stones, each creating a different effect:
- blue apatite - awaken creative thinking and imagination;
- schungite, hematite - relieve anxiety and insomnia;
- danburite, Shiva's lingam stone (red jasper) - increase self-esteem, awaken love and care for one's own personality;
- celestite, angel - spiritual enlightenment, peace of mind.
Modern man scolecite is simply necessary. The frantic rhythm of life, constant stress, neuroses, lack of sleep, and as a result, poor health and a decline in moral strength - scolecite will help to cope with all this. In addition, it is simply very beautiful, and jewelry with this mineral will help create a chic and individual look.
