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

Calcite
The Power of Stones: Crystals and Gemstones

ORIGINS

Calcite is the most common form of calcium carbonate, the major mineral in limestone, marble, and chalk. It is colorless or white in its pure form but may be almost any color—pink, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, brown, black, or gray—when impurities are present. Calcite is very soft (a 3 on the Mohs scale) and can be easily scratched, so it is rarely used in jewelry. However, it is frequently used as a component in construction materials such as cement, mortar, floor tiles, and countertops, as well as paints and fertilizers. The clearest form of calcite is called Iceland spar, because it is common in Iceland. Calcite is also found in England, Italy, Germany, Romania, Mexico, and the United States.

HISTORY/LORE

Calcite gets its name from the Latin calx, meaning “lime.” The ancient Egyptians favored it as an artisan material because of its softness and workability, and used a harder, banded variety of calcite called alabaster (distinct from the gypsum form of alabaster) to make ornamental and ceremonial objects such as sculptures and cosmetic containers.

USES

Healing Uses: Due to its acid-neutralizing effects, calcium carbonate is the major active ingredient in most commercially available antacid tablets, including Rolaids and TUMS. Calcite crystals can be used to encourage calcium absorption or to dissolve areas of calcification in the body, making them useful for treating bone problems such as osteoporosis and even bone cancer. Green calcite stimulates the immune system and battles bacterial infections. Iceland spar, also called optical calcite, soothes the tension that causes migraines.

Magical Uses: Pink calcite is powerful for releasing fear and grief and clearing a path for forgiveness. Blue calcite is a soothing stone that aids in recuperation and relaxation. It is also associated with the throat chakra and therefore aids in communication. Black calcite is helpful in past-life regression and recalling memories with the goal of letting go of the past. It also serves to alleviate depression and stress following a traumatic experience.

Feng Shui Uses: This is a great stone to have anywhere in your home, as it removes negative energies from the environment around it. Calcite is especially helpful in the Marriage/Relationships sector, particularly when a relationship is imbalanced or there is a disagreement.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Calcite is a powerful energy cleanser and a stabilizing stone. It can be used to calm the mind, connect with the intellect, and boost emotional intelligence. It also enhances learning abilities, making it a wonderful stone for students. Red calcite removes emotional barriers that prevent forward movement in life. Yellow or golden calcite is helpful in meditation, as it encourages a deep state of relaxation and opens the mind to spiritual guidance.