Actinolite is a rock-forming mineral belonging to the class of silicates and has an unusual color, which combines gray, brown and green shades. The name of the stone "actinolite" characterizes its radiance and glass shine, with Greek translates "actinos" - beam, "lithos" - stone.
Officially, the mineral was scientifically substantiated in 1794. A few years later, actinolite varieties were studied and classified by color and structure:
- Jade. The variety of the mineral for jewelry purposes has a viscous structure and a wide range of shades.
- Bissolite. Actinolite with a thin fiber structure, the main deposits of which are located in the Alps.
- Smaragdite. Rare and expensive mineral, distinguished by the bright color of young grass.
- Amiant. Pure actinolite, preferably in purple shades, with no dark spots on its surface.
The chemical composition of actinolite is dominated by silicon and iron, the percentage of which has a direct influence on the color of the stone. Additives: titanium, aluminum, potassium, manganese and magnesium. The stone is characterized by an even fracture, high brittleness, medium hardness, perfect cleavage and resistance to acids.
In the deposits, actinolite is found in the form of elongated needle or column crystals. Thin thread-shaped fibers found in transparent stones and quartzes give the crystals a glow that resembles a "cat's eye".
Mineral deposits
Actinolite is not a rare mineral, its deposits are located in many countries. The largest deposits are located in Russia (the territory of the Urals, Karelia, Primorsky Krai and Yekaterinburg), China, Canada and New Zealand. Africa is famous for its rare transparent crystals, while Italy is famous for its samples of blue-gray tones.
High-quality crystals suitable for jewelry business are mined in Tanzania and northern regions of India. Actinolite in other breeds is mined in Switzerland, Slovakia, Afghanistan and Madagascar. Samples of ornamental and gem quality are mined in Ukraine in the Azov region.
Magical properties of actinolite
Since ancient times, actinolite has been spread among the circles of enlightened magicians, shamans, sorcerers and other representatives of occult systems. It was used in rituals, rituals and initiations, and each nation had its own beliefs and signs. The people of Africa used stone to recognize deception, believing that by changing the shimmer he would point to a liar. High priests of African tribes used the properties of actinolite in justice: if the stone in the defendant's hand dims, then the suspect is deceiving and should be found guilty.
In China, it was considered a bad example of how to find an actinolite crystal and bring it to your home. Their beliefs say that the stone absorbs the energy of the former owner and takes over his fate. Having picked up the actinolite lying on the road, the Chinese man risked taking the fate of the former owner along with the stone, regardless of whether she was happy or not.
The opposite view was held by the inhabitants of the Urals, where some of the largest deposits are located. Ancient miners of actinolite believed that the stone found would bring good luck, recognition, wealth, and fulfil the cherished desire.
Nowadays, actinolite is considered a symbol of ambition, wisdom, decency, courage and loyalty. Anyone who wants to make a positive change in their lives can take advantage of the power of the mineral in the talisman. To the content
Therapeutic properties
One of the main uses of actinolite in lithotherapy is the treatment of severe skin diseases. For this purpose, jewelry set in silver is suitable, as in interaction with this metal properties of the stone are enhanced several times. Skin peeling will help to get rid of the ring or ring with the stone worn on the right hand. Turn the lichen, skin fungus and eczema will help pair bracelets, which are desirable to put on both hands. When detecting diseases of the scalp and hair you should wear silver earrings with a mineral.
Actinolite has a positive effect on the vital functions of the body. It helps to improve heart function and normalize blood vessels, treats diseases of the respiratory system, intestines, spinal system and joints. People's healers insist that with the help of actinolite man can restore the potency and restore the former force.
Green actinolite crystals are used in the treatment of mild psychiatric disorders, as well as to restore mental harmony and withdraw from the state of apathy during prolonged depression.
Application
Unusual beauty, structure and easy processing of actinolite make it popular with craftsmen and jewelers. Transparent stone is used to make spectacular jewelry of gem quality. It is cut with a cabochon, then inserted into earrings, rings, rings, brooches, pendants and necklaces. Opaque crystals are used to make bracelets, beads and necklaces.
Unusual stones and their aggregates with other breeds arouse interest in the call.