Chalcedony is more of a rock than a well-defined mineral. The composition of the stone is quite unique, as it is composed of a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz, which is tiny in size and arranged in fibers in the rock. Chalcedony, whose chemical formula is SiO2, often contains traces of moganite. It has a trigonal crystal system with an irregular fracture. The stone often occurs in massive form or in stalactite. It has a matte to silky sheen, its density is 2.6 and its hardness is around 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale.
Chalcedony is generally milky white to greyish in color with white, blue or green undertones. The inclusion of other metals and chemical elements such as iron or nickel can alter its color and give the stone a wide range of colors. Onyx, agate, carnelian, carnelian, jasper, among other gems and precious stones, are subspecies belonging to the chalcedony family. Jewelers identify chalcedony as a monochromatic, translucent stone of white or bluish white color. Even being of low porosity, chalcedony can be colored (process accepted in jewelry) to intensify its color.
Chalcedony is produced in several countries including Brazil, United States, Canada, Belgium, France, Italy, Algeria, etc ...
History of chalcedony
The word chalcedony derives from the name of a city in Asia Minor: Chalcedon, or Khalkedon in ancient Greek. The stone was highly appreciated and sought after since ancient times. The ancient Egyptians carved it into beetle figurines. Used as sacred amulets, they believed in the power of stone to help the dead pass the test of Judgment in the afterlife.
Among the Romans, chalcedony was a very valuable ornamental stone. It was often used to make jewelry and intaglio, not to mention its use in the making of magical amulets. Among the Babylonians, chalcedony was used to create cylindrical seals. The Old Testament also mentions chalcedony as one of the stones that encrusted Aaron's armor and in the Bible it is even said to be the stone associated with the apostle Andrew. In almost all major cultures, chalcedony has been assigned extraordinary powers. It has also often been attributed to the major deities of the various ancient pantheons.
Virtue of chalcedony
Regarded as one of the softest stones in lithotherapy, chalcedony is said to have calming virtues. Bringing calm and relief where negativity and excess reigned. On the physical level, chalcedony would have benefits in remedying diseases of the throat and larynx. The thyroid and hormone glands would also benefit from the action of the stone, especially when it comes to regulating hormone secretions. Chalcedony is particularly suitable for breastfeeding mothers, as it stimulates lactation. Even women suffering from difficult menopause can find some relief by keeping chalcedony on hand.
On a psychological level, chalcedony is a perfect bulwark against the negativity of feelings and thoughts. It would be perfect to replace anything that negatively affects the body and mind with feelings of calm and openness on both a relational and spiritual level. Chalcedony promotes the flowering of the body and mind. Some do not hesitate to call it the stone of happiness.
On a karmic level, chalcedony acts on the throat chakra, thus facilitating diction and relieving speech and stuttering problems. Ideal for public expression, it gives the wearer courage and clarity to his speech.
The astrological signs most favorable to chalcedony are the signs of Cancer, Gemini and Sagittarius. Under other colors the stone may be suitable for other signs.
To purify chalcedony, some recommend putting it under running water for a few minutes once or twice a month. For others, it must be put in lightly salted distilled water. As for the charging of the stone, the sun's rays would be perfect for this task.