July, here so soon?! I'm not sure we are ready to head into the dark half of the year quite yet! Not to worry, we still have plenty of lazy days of Summer to look forward to, as we ease away from the peak of the Solar cycle. Each month in the wheel of the year brings us something unique and very special. To support us during the coming month, our Crystal of the Month is Carnelian! Read on to find out why.
July and Carnelian:
July is comforting, relaxing and nurturing and makes us feel like we have all the time in the world. During July, the seventh month of the year, we experience the powerful 7:7 portal and the Sun moving from the Cardinal Water sign of Cancer into the Fixed Fire sign of Leo.
That means we are looking for crystals that align with the energy of July, that of passion and protection, connecting to our deepest desires, to love and be loved. So naturally, I have chosen Carnelian as my crystal of choice for July. You could also use Ruby or any other magical crystal that you are drawn to.
What is Carnelian?
Carnelian is a microcrystalline variety of Quartz and a member of the Chalcedony family. Its name is derived from its resemblance in colour to the Kornel type of cherry. The fabulous Iron Oxide is the source of colour for Carnelian and it can vary from yellow through all shades and tones of orange all the way to the deepest red and ruddy brown. It can also be anything from totally translucent to semi-opaque.
In this way Carnelian can incorporate all the colours that resonate with the three lower physical chakras - Base, Sacral and Solar Plexus.
As a powerful activator of the lower chakras which govern stability, grounding, creativity, sexuality, passion, vitality, power and confidence, enthusiasm and a zest for life, Carnelian enhances the flow of life force energy in the body and encourages well-being.
How Carnelian was used throughout History
The first stone in Aaron's (High Priest and brother of Moses) breastplate that was noted in the bible, was Odem. This is the biblical stone name that aligns with Sard, Sardonyx and Carnelian in modern times.
The ancient Egyptians adored Carnelian and had many uses for it, including using it to stimulate fertility, encourage passion and provide courage to their warriors. They called it the Sunset Stone and strings of Carnelian beads were worn around the neck and some have survived to this day.
In ancient Greece and Rome, Carnelian of a dark red colour was referred to as Sard.
Many of the prized signet rings of Rome were carved from Carnelian. Its naturally varied shades also created striking sculptures.
The magic of rebirth is available to us during July with the help and support of Carnelian. We can carry it with us, wear it as jewellery, place it on our chakras, and have it in our environment, but we need to connect with it as often as we can. It will help change our lives at this extraordinary time.
Sparkly Carnelian blessings,
Tiggy xx
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