The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Chalcedony
The Power of Stones: Crystals and Gemstones

ORIGINS

Chalcedony is a microcrystalline type of quartz and a broad category that includes some of the other stones in this chapter, such as agate, carnelian, and onyx. “True” or “actual” chalcedony is the milky white, gray, or blue variety of the stone, which often has a glowing, translucent quality. The stone is found all over the world, including the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, India, and Madagascar. The name chalcedony is most likely derived from Chalcedon, an ancient Greek city in Asia Minor.

HISTORY/LORE

Chalcedony has been in use going back to the Bronze Age, when it was favored for carving seals, intaglios, and rings and other jewelry. The Roman orator Cicero is said to have worn a blue chalcedony stone around his neck due to its reputation for being beneficial during public speaking. The Native Americans believed chalcedony to be sacred and used it in spiritual ceremonies.

USES

Healing Uses: This stone promotes mineral absorption and prevents mineral buildup in the body, and it can also be used to support lactation in breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, chalcedony is said to lessen the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Blue chalcedony is associated with the throat chakra, making it effective for treating sore throats and other ailments of the neck area.

Magical Uses: Chalcedony is a nurturing stone often used to inspire goodwill and stabilize relationships, as well as to assist in telepathy and thought transmission. It absorbs and dissipates negative energy, paving the way for openness, generosity, and joy. Wear chalcedony for protection while traveling or to prevent bad dreams. Blue chalcedony can be used in weather magic and for treating illnesses associated with changes in the weather.

Feng Shui Uses: Blue chalcedony uses water energy, which is associated with the northern area of a home or room and the Career/Path in Life sector. Use blue chalcedony to calm, purify, and strengthen a space, especially one used for reflection or prayer.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Chalcedony is often called the “speaker’s stone,” used to ease self-doubt and facilitate clear communication. It is especially helpful to actors, singers, salespeople, and others whose voices play a central role in their lives or careers. Blue chalcedony in particular is a creative stone that opens the mind to new ideas, enhances listening skills, and improves memory.