“Book of Stones” History Legend Chakra Crystal Resonance Spiritual Heal Emotion for Sale

“Book of Stones” History Legend Chakra Crystal Resonance Spiritual Heal Emotion For Sale

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“Book of Stones” History Legend Chakra Crystal Resonance Spiritual Heal Emotion:
$72.99

The Book of Stones: Who They Are and What They Teach by Robert Simmons.

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DESCRIPTION: Paperback. Publisher: North Atlantic Books (2007). Pages: 496. Size: 11x7x1¼ inches; 3½ pounds. ”The Book of Stones” is a new edition of the best-selling guide to some of Earth’s most beautiful natural objects. Two introductory chapters detail the authors’ theories about how to work with crystals and stones, including the concept of crystal resonance and the scientific observation that living organisms (such as ourselves) are liquid crystalline structures. An illuminating alphabetical journey through the mineral kingdom, stone by stone, follows.

Each entry begins with the stone name and photo, plus its elemental and chakra correspondences, as well as keywords that indicate its properties. Next comes a description of the crystal structure, hardness, history, and known locations of each mineral, plus any relevant legend or lore from the past. Each author then offers an essay on the subtle energy properties and spiritual applications of the stone. The entries conclude with summaries of the spiritual, emotional, and physical healing qualities of the stone, and an affirmation for evoking its potential benefits. The book’s presentation is straightforward enough to make it an excellent introduction for beginners, yet the level of detail and the depth of research make it an invaluable resource for the most experienced stone practitioners.

CONDITION: NEW. New oversized softcover. North Atlantic Books (2007) 496 pages. Unblemished, unmarked, pristine in every respect EXCEPT that there is very mild edge wear to the covers. Just a little abrasive crinkling. No tears, no major blemishes. In fact it is not something you'd be likely to notice unless you inspect the book intently (as do we). Just the minor edgewear you might "expect" in a 15 year old book from an open-shelf brick-and-mortar book from an open-shelf bookstore environment such as Barnes & Noble or B. Dalton (for example). Pages are pristine; clean, crisp, unmarked, unmutilated, tightly bound, unambiguously unread. Satisfaction unconditionally guaranteed. In stock, ready to ship. No disappointments, no excuses. PROMPT SHIPPING! HEAVILY PADDED, DAMAGE-FREE PACKAGING! Meticulous and accurate descriptions! Selling rare and out-of-print ancient history books on-line since 1997. We accept returns for any reason within 14 days! #7583b.

PLEASE SEE DESCRIPTIONS AND IMAGES BELOW FOR DETAILED REVIEWS AND FOR PAGES OF PICTURES FROM INSIDE OF BOOK.

PLEASE SEE PUBLISHER, PROFESSIONAL, AND READER REVIEWS BELOW.

PUBLISHER REVIEWS:

REVIEW: Often dubbed the "crystals bible," this comprehensive reference guide to the spiritual and healing qualities of 455 sacred stones has become the go-to book for looking up the properties of gems and minerals. Each entry includes vivid color photographs for each stone to aid identification and to showcase its beauty, as well as listing its scientific information, its element and chakra correspondences, and the physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits of each stone.

Illustrated by gorgeously lit, clear color photos to aid quick identification, the book offers an illuminating alphabetical journey through the mineral kingdom, stone by stone. The book begins with two introductory chapters detailing advice by authors Naisha Ahsian and Robert Simmons on how to work with crystals and stones, including the concept of crystal resonance and the scientific observation that living organisms (such as ourselves) are liquid crystalline structures. Each entry begins with the stone name and photo, plus its elemental and chakra correspondences, as well as keywords that indicate its properties.

Next comes a description of the crystal structure, hardness, history, and known locations of each mineral, plus any relevant legend or lore from the past. Each author then offers their own take and personal insights on the subtle energy properties and spiritual applications of the stone. The entries conclude with summaries of the spiritual, emotional, and physical healing qualities of the stone, and an affirmation for evoking its potential benefits. The book's presentation is straightforward enough to make it an excellent introduction for beginners, yet the level of detail and the depth of research make it an invaluable resource for the most experienced stone practitioners.

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” is the most in-depth, definitive guide to the world of crystals, minerals, gemstones and their metaphysical energies that has yet been written. Encompassing over three hundred separate entries, each with vivid color photographs and essays by both authors, this book takes you deep into the world of stones and their uses for spiritual awakening and self-healing. “The Book of Stones” can teach you about each mineral’s scientific properties, history and lore, elemental energies, chakra correspondences, and which stones work best together. Also considered are the stones’ effects on the spiritual, emotional and physical self. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, “The Book of Stones” can give you clear, easy-to-understand information that will help you enjoy the beauty and benefits of the mineral realm. This pictorial metaphysical encyclopedia is what crystal lovers all over the world have been waiting for!

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” is a best-selling guide to some of Earth’s most beautiful natural objects. Two introductory chapters detail the authors’ theories about how to work with crystals and stones, including the concept of crystal resonance and the scientific observation that living organisms (such as ourselves) are liquid crystalline structures. An illuminating alphabetical journey through the mineral kingdom, stone by stone, follows. Each entry begins with the stone name and photo, plus its elemental and chakra correspondences, as well as keywords that indicate its properties.

Next comes a description of the crystal structure, hardness, history, and known locations of each mineral, plus any relevant legend or lore from the past. Each author then offers an essay on the subtle energy properties and spiritual applications of the stone. The entries conclude with summaries of the spiritual, emotional, and physical healing qualities of the stone, and an affirmation for evoking its potential benefits. The book’s presentation is straightforward enough to make it an excellent introduction for beginners, yet the level of detail and the depth of research make it an invaluable resource for the most experienced stone practitioners.

REVIEW: A comprehensive reference guide to the spiritual healing qualities and scientific properties of hundreds of sacred crystals, minerals, and gemstones, this book includes color photographs to aid in stone identification

REVIEW: Robert Simmons is the founder of Heaven and Earth, a company offering more than 2,000 gem and jewelry items for self-healing and spiritual and emotional development. Together with his wife Kathy Warner, he is the founder and sponsor of The Crystal Conference, an annual four-day teaching event in which the best-known crystal authors and teachers come together to offer intensive workshops to stone enthusiasts from all over the world.

Naisha Ahsian is an author, teacher, and healer with an international practice. She is the creator of the Crystal Resonance Therapy and Primus Activation Healing Technique spiritual healing modalities. Director of the Crystalis Institute for Personal and Planetary Evolution, an educational organization offering training and certification for healers worldwide.

Hazel Raven, former Vice Chairman of ACHO (Affiliation of Crystal Healing Organisations), has been teaching professional crystal programs since 1990. An international writer, lecturer, and therapist, she is a teacher and practitioner member of the BFVEA (British Flower and Vibrational Essence Association).

PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS:

REVIEW: The Book of Stones takes the reader on a fascinating journey. The writing is clear, thoughtful, and easily understood, and the inclusion of scientific data, history, and folklore helps make the book a valuable resource for all those interested in the mineral kingdom. Thom Hartmann, author of “The Prophet’s Way and The Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight”.

REVIEW: Quite easily the most comprehensively written and beautifully photographed book on the subject that I’ve come across. If you own only one reference book on stones and crystals, make sure that this gem is the one. [Dr. Eric Pearl, author or the international bestseller “The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself”.

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” has elevated the spiritual knowledge of crystals into a higher form. The classification of each stone is impeccable, along with wonderful photos, creating an intimate connection with a wide variety of minerals. This book offers us all an opportunity to sharpen our skills and renew our interest in the crystal healing world. [JaneAnn Dow, author of “Crystal Journey: Travel Guide for the New Shaman”.

REVIEW: This beautiful and unusual work opened a new and unknown world to me, right under my feet—a realm of qualities and possibilities of which I had known nothing and for which I am the richer. [Joseph Chilton Pearce, author of “The Crack in the Cosmic Egg”, “The Biology of Transcendence”, and “The Death of Religion and the Rebirth of the Spirit”.

REVIEW: Each description is an intimate conversation between the Wisdom of the Stones and the deep soul Wisdom of thee two authors. [Robert Sardello, PhD, author of “Love and the World and Silence”.

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” is filled with information and with beauty! [Melody, author of “Love Is in the Earth”.

REVIEW: "The Book of of Stones: Who They Are and What They Teach” by Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian explains the physical and metaphysical properties of crystals, minerals and gemstones."

REVIEW: A welcome addition to the world of stones, offering an opportunity to sharpen skills and renew interest in crystal-healing. [JaneAnn Dow, author of “Crystal Journey: Travel Guide for the New Shaman.”]

REVIEW: If you own only one reference book on stones and crystals, make sure that this gem is this one. [Dr. Eric Pearl, author of the international bestseller “The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself.”]

READER REVIEWS:

REVIEW: Rob Simmons certainly knew what he was doing when putting this one together. I love Naisha's entries, and Hazel Raven is a very well respected healer in the UK. Simmons also knows his stuff, and has compiled a convenient guide with photographs for each entry. The book is full of mineralogical data, photographs, diverse views, stones to use in combinations, and affirmations. I recommend this to people that are moving away from the writing styles of the early writers and those like Melody; although they are wonderful, they may seem to esoteric or too impersonal.

REVIEW: This was my first book that I purchased to introduce me to crystals. I recommend it for its truly superb photography as well as the beautiful specimens featured. The photos are great to learn of a mineral you may not have ever have seen in person. also there are concise spiritual, mental, and physical affects listed that emanate from the stones' energies, as well as an affirmation that matches the frequency of a stone with a statement that tells the general idea the stone has to make. This makes it a lot easier to index the underlying lesson to be learned from minerals. Under the listing of the mineral name they have key words associated with the stones, the elemental energy of the stone and the chakras which are affected. The locations of minerals and the class and color of mineral are also discussed.

REVIEW: I am most pleased with having purchased this book. It has stones and crystals that I have read about on various websites but have NOT seen in other books, for example Heulandite is one of them. My mother had found a chunk of it at a crystal shop and had wanted me to find out what it was used for. I could not find any information on it except on the internet, but I was most pleased to see it listed in “The Book of Stones”! I have also found some other stones/crystals I had heard of, but never found a good description of them anywhere but the internet.

In this book I really like that they give you some key words for each stone/crystal. Key words for Heulandite are: dreams, visions, emotional healing, etc.They also list the element that the stone is with, for example Heulandite's element is wind. Also included are the chakras in which the stones would work with. Heulandite works with the heart, third eye, and crown chakras.I very much enjoy the pictures they have added, they vary from natural formations, cut, tumbled, and spheres.

Both Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian give descriptions about each stone, so instead of one person talking about the stone you have two. Naisha also likes to list down the spiritual properties, emotional, physical, and affirmation of most stones, which I find is most helpful as well. It is a long read but definitely a wealth of information.

REVIEW: Although not one to write reviews for books I could not pass this one by. It is by far the most in depth book of this type out and is long over-due. As with all books of this size and scale, and dealing with such subjects as these, not everyone will agree with everything written within but this is how it should be. I have been working with minerals for over 25 years and one of the first things I learned was that all stones have unique personalities which in some cases go beyond what has been written by others. It is up to each of us to learn what we can from individual stones.

Books such as this one are great references and go a long way in setting guidelines as we travel down our paths but it is our personal experiences with individual stones where we find the deepest truths. All this being said this is a book I would recommend to anyone interested in exploring the properties of minerals. This book is not only for beginners but also for those who have been working with stones for many years. It brings a fresh view to a subject that hasn't been addressed in this depth in many years. As such I have bought 35 copies to send to friends and past students so that they too can gain some insight into the world of stones as viewed through the eyes of these authors.

REVIEW: Excellent book, very useful for those who would like to know the metaphysical meanings of stones/minerals. This book includes some stones that were not in my other books, such as Spirit Crystal, The Nebula Stone, and Shiva Lingam, among others. There are 465 pages of information, which include color pictures of the stones. There is a 4-page table of content listing, covering approximately 331 stones/minerals. This book also provides an extended write-up on Moldavite (one of my favorites). There are also about 15 pages of introductory material on the authors' perspectives of stones, the classifications used in the book, consciousness with stones, stone layouts, meditating with stones, stone elements (fire/storm/wind/earth/water), chakras, etc. I like to read about the stones and their properties.

To give you an example, let's take The Nebula Stone. There is a picture, which in this case looks exactly like mine. The key words are: "bringing spiritual light into matter, attuning to probable futures, fulfilling one's highest aspirations, feeling at home in the body and on Earth". The element is "Storm" (used when massive transformation, cleansing, and radical dynamic balancing are called for, etc.) . The chakras are: all, especially Root (1st) and Crown (7th). A brief paragraph follows, explaining the stone was found in the desert of the American Southwest, that its appearance is reminiscent of the nebulas in space, and its composition is alkalis volcanic rock composed almost exclusively of the four minerals; Quartz, Anorthoclase, Riebeckite, and Aegirine.

Arthur Robert Simmons follows with four paragraphs on his insights on the stone and its metaphysical properties. Author Naisha Ahsian follows with her comments in three paragraphs, followed by one or more sentences on the stone's spiritual, emotional, and physical uses and concludes with an affirmation related to the stone. There is also quite a bit of info on Azeztulite, a variety of quartz, found in North Carolina and later in Vermont. It sounds like a very interesting stone and very interesting reading.

I used think that people who played with crystals were a little nuts and I deeply apologize for my ignorance, for I truly did not understand what they already knew. In fact, I was drawn to stones as a child, but dismissed the attraction as I turned into a teen. Later, I collected jewelry pieces, not realizing these pieces were the same as the unpolished stones. About 5 years ago or so, my interest in all stones returned. One of my awakening stones was Moldavite. I had a piece made for me with a Herkimer Diamond by some newly acquired friends at the time. The energy was so strong, it took me about 2 weeks of wearing it in intervals before I could wear it all day. Then I wore it 24/7 for about a year or more.

Currently, I have a piece of Covellite with Petalite that I have been wearing 24/7 for the last 2 years. I tell you all this only to say that I am sold on the realization that stones have energies that they pass on to us, if we allow it and many of these "passed on" energies can greatly impact us in positive ways that we would never have dreamed of if we had not opened our mind to the possibilities. Many people say that the stone(s) that you need will sort of "call" you. They may appear beautiful or sparkly to you, or for some reason, you can't stop thinking about them. I like to let them call me, buy them, then come home and look them up in the books in my personal library to find out WHY they "called" me.

I am very pleased with this book and it is a welcome addition to my reference library. The book also covers some of the spiritual-seeker's other favorites. Besides moldavite, you can find petalite, azeztulite, danburite, and phenacite. (powerful stones) Covellite is another power stone. I wear a combo petalite and covellite piece and a moldavite ring 24/7. Update, March 2009: I bought this book for a friend recently. She makes jewelry from stones. This book lists a lot of stones not found in Melody's “Love Is in the Earth” book, so it is a great compliment to my and to my friend's library. I also found a nice pair of moldavite and danburite earrings on the the author's website. The energy in these earrings is very beautiful and loving. I have another friend who owns a New Age store. She looks at me and shakes her head. She says with the stone combination I am wearing, she cannot believe I am still standing upright. (my energy friends will understand that one.) If you can only buy two books on stones, make this one of them.

REVIEW: I only started working with crystal a few years ago. I suppose I was brought up with it as in Chinese culture, jade is a very significant stone to us. It acts as a protector on all fronts. Working with crystal is totally a personal experience. I view each crystal as a key, like in music or a transmitter that can receive and transmit vibration. I cannot remember individual names of crystals however I find myself using it intuitively. Every time I choose to use a crystal, it is a synergy of place, time and people in my reality that makes it work with us efficiently.

Vibration is very abstract, however the color photos of every stone explained in this book bring the vibrations up to date into our reality. The color, the shape, the structural components are all there for us to visualize and experience. It makes tuning in with each stone even though without its physical presence a possibility. In my perception, this book facilitates a fantastic range of frequency for me to access. Experiences with stones can be extremely exciting when you hit “The One”. However, despite the excitements that Robert projects in this book, he constantly reminds us, from the Introduction section, and throughout the book, about using our own intuition. I quote, “Don't take our words, or anyone's, as gospel truth. People's experience of stone energies vary at least as much as their experiences of music, art....”. This is an expression of a true master.

The separate comments of each stone from Robert and Naisha are very interesting. It is like the different styles of learning and studying in University verses Primary/Secondary schools. You can either choose to explore the stone intuitively as a whole or you can experience it step by step in different aspects. This book makes a great reading too. It reflects the personal experience of the authors and perception in life working along side stones. I am particularly impressed by the writing about `Integration Crystal (Transmitter) on page 322: "The Integration Crystal ....representing the balance between spiritual knowledge and action. This configuration represents the end of apprenticeship and the beginning of autonomous action. Once has received the knowledge that was necessary to understand one's path, and now one must begin to apply that knowledge in the real world.”

“In the past, it was more accepted for one to spend one's life in monastic isolation, supported in the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. By becoming a monk, nun, spiritual ascetic, or other dedicated seeker, one could remove oneself from the concerns of the world and focus solely on the concerns of the soul. In current times, however, we are being asked to bring our spiritual learning and knowledge to the world, rather than hiding it behind temple walls. This is a much more difficult task, since it requires the integration of Spirit into every level of one's life, - even when one's practice consists of going to work, cooking meals, cleaning house, taking children to practice or other events, and generally living a `normal' life, with consciousness. ........it is no longer enough to simply to `get high' on energy and knowledge. It is necessary to bring this frequency into one's body and ground it into every action one takes. It is about applying one's learning to real life situation and balance the life of the soul with physical life. "

Every piece of their writing serves as a message for anyone who is ready to pick up and to apply to her/his life. It is so realistic that I can imagine replacing all the names of stone by one term `This Key' and the book will still remain so rich with information for me to use in my own life. Naisha's affirmation for each stone, literally, stands up on its own for us to practice, for example, on p. 147: “I open myself to the love, knowledge, wisdom and blessings of the higher realms, and I help bring them into the world.” That is exactly what Robert and Naisha have done, bringing their knowledge through working with stones together in this book, making accessible to me and to the world. I thank them for their intention with eternal gratitude.

REVIEW: I have been working with stones and making jewelry for about 5 years, and have struggled to find a book that covers the physical, geological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of stones. I used to use “The Crystal Bible”, which is not very complete, and after trudging through Melody's “Love is in the Earth” for years, I was so overjoyed to find this comprehensive, beautifully illustrated book by two lovely authors. Each stone has a natural crystal formation photograph and a cut stone example, which helps both hardcore rock hounds and jewelers alike. I highly recommend this book as do some of my spiritually minded jeweler sisters! Each author offers their own take on the stone, and between the two, you are bound to resonate with some of the information. There might be a few stones missing here, but frankly I'm tired of Melody making up names for stones that have no picture identification. This book rocks! ;)

REVIEW: I have a large collection of stones and books on stones, and this book is by far my favorite. The depth and wisdom conveyed here is a cut above. I was wary, at first, because of the maligned "trademarked" stones in the book- and of accusations that the authors are just using this book to sell these stones. However, after purchasing a number of the "trademarked" stones from other vendors (not from “Heaven and Earth”), I found the stones to have exactly the metaphysical properties that these authors claimed them to have, and they are now some of my very favorite stones. I can't blame the author for building a business and making a living. We are all trying to do that.

REVIEW: Beautifully written book by Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian. The presentation of the stones are breathtaking. Some of the finest specimens are displayed with a picture for EVERY stone. I am constantly referring to this book as a resource for information on spiritual, emotional and physical properties of the stones. This book is great for someone new to stone (crystal) energy and usage as well as the seasoned practitioner. This is a great gift from two great people (the authors)!

REVIEW: crystal lovers everywhere please take note! This is seriously an awesome book. You can’t pack this one in your bag and walk around a crystal store or spiritual event, but believe me, sat at home in your cozy chair you will enjoy many hours reading about an array of crystals. This book is exciting! The introduction sucks you in, inviting you to read on and explore the amazing crystals. The book is written by two authors, each of them giving you their knowledge on each crystal. It is full of valuable information and absolutely jam packed with fine details. It is like no other crystal book i have ever read! The authors are absolutely dedicated to crystals and their passion is obvious throughout the book. This book is in a league of its own and for any one out there reading this who loves crystals I would recommend it one hundred percent.

REVIEW: I like it! It was more expensive than I'd usually pay for a book, but worth every penny. I'd previewed the book prior to buying and that helped me make the decision. It's a sensible size unlike “The Crystal Bible” and the print is a decent size too. The photography is great too. I've identified at least one mystery crystal from flicking through it. My edition does indeed have an index at the back with physical complaints and then another one for metaphysical, so I can find whatever I want fairly easily. Well worth the money in my opinion as I suspect it'll be my first choice in reference now and I have a few crystal books, I seem to collect them like I collect crystals.

REVIEW: I have many, many books on crystals and rocks and minerals, but not one can compare to this book! I refer to it regularly and it has helped me choose stones that I seem to need on my path in my life right now. I love the way Naisha Ahsian and Robert Simmons have written their own reviews on each stone. They tell you how each stone resonates with other stones to get the maximum benefit from both stones. I haven't found another crystal book yet with that type of information. On each stone they give you a short line on how it affects the spiritual, emotional, physical and an affirmation of the stone! Wow, you can't beat that can you! This book is like a community of crystals and their uniqueness and special qualities are all noted! I would not do with out this book and take it where ever I am purchasing other stones for my collection and path in life. The picture for each stone is absolutely beautiful and large enough to get a true idea on its color and style. They have a special section on the different types of quartz, its location and it's many formations with a picture showing that particular formation on a real crystal! It is in my opinion, by far the absolute best "Book of Stones" that I have come across so far!!! All of my friends who collect crystals and stones feel the same way I do about this wonderful book, and have one too! I love it! Thank you Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian and Hazel Raven for such a fantastic book and for your time in putting it all together in this "Book of Stones"!

REVIEW: Of the myriad of books and guides on metaphysical crystals and gemstones, this one stands head and shoulders above the rest! This book was written specimen by specimen, with great devotion, care and time devoted to each. It gives a brief scientific description of the structure, nature and source of each stone and mineral, and then provides a wealth of wisdom from a purely energetic point of view. I do firmly believe that each stone can and does have an entirely different effect on different individuals, but it is necessary to have an intelligent and informative description, from people who honor a wide variety of traditions and paths, to even know where you might wish to begin in your use of stones for healing, self improvement, or magickal uses! This book is indispensable for anyone working with the "Stone People", and includes all stones, from the most common Quartz (about which there is really nothing common at all!) to the more exotic members of the tribe! And, each is illustrated with an excellent photograph for reference as well.

REVIEW: This is my “bible” as stones go. This is a great and hugely informative book if you are into collecting and the metaphysical. All entries have a paragraph about the physical (scientific) properties such as hardness, colors and varieties, as well as where they are found/mined. Written by a few experts in the field, you get two metaphysical descriptions as well. One from a man, the other from a woman. I love this aspect because it gives two "feelings" for each stone. Most usually, they are in line with each other, and they compliment each other extremely well. The pictures are great, it is very well written and a MUST have if you are into collecting! Some of the descriptions may be hard to read if you are not into the metaphysical aspect of stones. However, if you are, there is no better book out there.

REVIEW: Very well written, it captures your interests by combining the practical research of the classification and composition of the selected stones with the mystical side of their history. It is written with two separate essays from both the authors so you get a duel perspective of the stone. Although some would call researching and the using of stones, New Age it actually is not, fascination of stones and their "uses" can be traced back to the Bible, Torah, and Koran, as well as such Pagan religions such as Wicca, so I suppose the stones hold something for everybody. This is a fun and entertaining book, it is not something that you will sit and read from cover to cover unless you are a text book geek,(and if you are you really need to get out more) but when a stone fascinates you, or the preacher/rabbi/ whoever talks of a holy stone, or you see a special rock that puts a happy glimmer in your eye, open up this book, look the stone up, and learn a little, okay a lot. This is more than just a pretty book, it actually has depth and well detailed research behind it, and in my opinion, that's exactly what this type of book should do.REVIEW: This is far and away the best book on crystals and gemstones you'll yet find. It's beautifully illustrated with full-color photos of each type of stone and there are so many listed therein. Each stone is introduced by keywords, associated elements, and associated chakras. The core description begins with a geological notation on the stone's mineral constituents and where the stone is usually found. Thereafter is an intuitive description from Robert Simmons and then an intuitive description from Naisha Ahsian (with occasional descriptions from Hazel Raven). Simmons typically gives other suggestions for which other stones will work well with a given stone. Ahsian typically ends her descriptions with a physical/emotional/spiritual summary and affirmation. After working with several of these stones, my own experiences are somewhere in the midst of what Simmons and Ahsian have to write. I appreciate the different takes on each stone, as it allows for one to synthesize different perspectives of how the stone may work (or is working) for you. A huge boon to lithotherapy and other healing practices or even if you're just dabbling. It's a pretty book. Cannot recommend it enough!

REVIEW: This has got to be the most comprehensive, informative book on the subject of stones and crystals I have ever seen! It's absolutely wonderful! The pictures of each crystal/stone are so life-like you feel like they're right there for you to touch. I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for information on the subject.

REVIEW: If you are interested in buying a book about the healing qualities of stones, then this IS the BOOK! I have several books on the subject and this one is by far my favorite. Great descriptions, chakra info, affirmations, gorgeous pictures, just a great user-friendly format all-around. A pleasurable reference book, that never gets tiring. I hope they make a part II as there are some stones that are not covered, but they do get the vast majority. A celebration for stone/mineral/Earth lovers! Let there be LIGHT.

REVIEW: I looked for weeks for the right book on this topic. I believe this is it. Excellent descriptions from each one of the authors, and color photos of each stone listed. There's a section on how to use the stones. I can hardly put the book down! I am looking for a copy of this book for my best friend, as she has threatened to steal mine! I have never written a review before. All I can say is BUY THIS BOOK! If you don't buy this book, you will be losing out.

REVIEW: Of all my crystal books, this is by far the best! Two authors give this book a depth that others do not. Each stone is listed alphabetically and contains a description from both authors. It is organized so that if you are looking for the spiritual, mental, or physical effects you can find them in an instant. Also listed with each stone are the chakras it affects and its elemental energy. By far this is my favorite book about stones!

REVIEW: Prior to this book I used to use Melody and The Crystal Bible as my main resources. Now with this book I must say that the combination of the two has culminated the best. The excellent information by Robert and Naisha is beyond expectations and the pictorials allow one to identify those mysterious crystal specimens. A must have for all crystal lovers, healers and collectors. Well worth waiting for.

REVIEW: Best book on the market for beginners and long time crystal junkies alike. The pictures are wonderful, the comments spot on. I recommend it to everyone. I work in a crystal store and people are always asking what book to buy. This is it. Once you find that first crystal that speaks to you...you’re hooked. Then it's time to get the book and learn about these magnificent gifts of the earth that are here for us. You will love it and if you’re not “into” crystals and stones, then gift it to someone that is. Learning about this can change a life..truly...have watched this again and again.

REVIEW: I bought this book because I already have the first printing of it. This is the updated on. There is a lot more information in this book than the first one. I use it all the time with my stones for a lot of reasons. I cross-reference this one with other ones that I have. Since it is written by two people with basically very different write ups on each stone. You get two completely different looks at the stone. There are still a few stones in this book that I don't have. This book is a great one to have. I have quite a few books on stones written for different reasons this is one of those must have books for those who love stones of any kind. The book has wonderful pictures of all the stones, and I am sure it took a great deal of work when into putting this book together. I enjoy it very much.

REVIEW: I have many books regarding crystals and stones. This is one of my favorites. The descriptions are so complete ans helpful. The photography is wonderful. I recommend this book for anyone wanting to learn more about crystals and stones and all of their uses.

REVIEW: This is definitely a must have book if you have any interest whatsoever in stones and crystals. I've looked at many and this is by far the most informative. The amount and quality of information is vast. It's also fun to verify that the crystals you pick up by intuition are the very ones appropriate to your situation.

REVIEW: I have many books on various metaphysical topics, including crystals. The Book of Stones is probably my favorite from my collection. It includes 2 objective resources for each stone, ways to use them, what stones they work well with, their structure, hardness and sources, and most importantly, pictures. I have too many books that don't have pictures, or they only have one and it is probably the least available form of the stone.

REVIEW: Great book! I have gained lots of new points of interest from reading this book. Well written, excellent pictures with a wide range of crystals making this a valuable resource for my work with crystals. This book had already come recommended to me by a crsytal lover. On reading it I understand why. It is a must have book! I will be keeping an eye out for other books from these authors.

REVIEW: This book is a well organized and specific right down to the affirmation to use when meditating on a particular stone for a specific problem. I've started using an extensive array of crystals and stones to send healing. I've found this book to be incredibly helpful and I'm amazed at how much I've learned in a short time. This is an excellent reference when purchasing stones or jewelry. Cleanse stones and jewelry carefully so as not to destroy their etheric power and they will reward you.

REVIEW: Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian offer wonderful insight into the metaphysical world of crystals, minerals and gemstones. I design my jewelry using specific stones to convey a feeling or message. This book has been an inspiration to begin a wonderful journey.

REVIEW: The Book of Stones is a fantastic reference guide for all gem/stone lovers. From beginner to aficionado, the book provides comprehensive coverage on each gem and stone. Well laid out, great pictures, and well written. If you have only one reference book, get this one... this is first of my top three favorites!!!

REVIEW: For anyone who does stone work, crystal healing, just loves the earth and all its magnificent creations, this book is a plethora of fabulous information. This book is a must for metaphysical crystal workers, and co-exists well with melodies wonderful books.

REVIEW: This the very first book I purchased when I got into crystals, and it remains my absolute favorite. I recommend this book to everyone, and definitely think it's worth having on your bookshelf.

REVIEW: This book came to me as a gift. I have several different books on stones/crystals but they always seem to be lacking in one stone or another. “The Book of Stones” doesn't have all known stones of metaphysical value in it but it comes as close as you will find today. Well worth the investment for someone who is drawn to stones and their spiritual properties and even for those that have some knowledge on the subject. I use it regularly and find it to be thorough and insightful.

REVIEW: This book is awesome it gives you alot of information on the stone itself and it also tells you what these stones have been used for like protection, healing, etc. It is a great find I don't even refer to the other books I have bought before I got this one.

REVIEW: I've bought several books on gemstones and minerals over the years but,this is the best book on the metaphysical properties of stones that I know of on the market today. I highly recommend it to everyone. Five Stars!

REVIEW: It's a book when you read it you know and also feel that what's written down is knowledge and wisdom from another level, things you can't read in other books about stones and crystals. You feel the love the writers have for stones, so to them I say, “thank you for sharing”.

GEMSTONES IN ANCIENT HISTORY: Throughout history, gemstones were believed capable of curing illness to providing protection. Found in Egypt dated 1500 B. C., the "Papyrus Ebers" offered one of most complete therapeutic manuscripts containing prescriptions using gemstones and minerals. In the eastern civilizations of China, India, and Tibet, gemstones were not only valued for their medicinal and protective properties, but also for educational and spiritual enhancement. Hereinbelow are a few examples of the uses for and beliefs concerning specific gemstone varieties in the ancient world.

Demantoid Garnet: Demantoid is known as “the queen of the garnet family”. Though demantoid garnet has been found in Africa in very limited quantities, the best demantoid is found in the Ural Mountains of Russia and is associated with gold bearing sands. The Russian demantoid garnet has much richer and vibrant color. The combination of its color and fire give it unsurpassed splendor. As well, most Russian demantoid garnet is also characterized by “horsetail” inclusions – minute asbestos fibers oftentimes only visible under a microscope. Demantoid garnet is generally available on in small sizes. Gemstone quality specimens in excess of one carat are very rare. Mining of this beautiful, brilliant green garnet lasted only about 30 years, ending before the turn of the twentieth century (over 100 years ago). The primary source for top quality stones today is antique jewelry.

Demantoid was very popular in the 19th century, and remains one of the most valuable gemstones of all, highly coveted for its rarity and its incredible brilliance. Demantoid has a relatively high refraction of light (1.888). Remarkable, however, is also the dispersion, i.e., its ability to reflect the light coming in through the facets and to dissemble this light into all the colors of the rainbow. Demantoid is a champion in this respect, even better than diamond. When Demantoid was first discovered in the Urals Mountains in Russia in 1868, it quickly advanced to the position of a much coveted gemstone. Like a comet it sparkled and shone, displaying its fire at jewelers’ studios in Paris, New York and St Petersburg. Carl Fabergé, Russia’s renown royal jeweler, was fascinated by it because of its striking brilliance, and so he loved to use the stone in his precious objects.

The name Garnet is derived from the Latin for pomegranate, "grantum", because crystals in rock reminded early aficionados of pomegranate seeds. However in ancient times garnet was also known as “carbuncle”. Mankind has used garnet as ornamentation for many thousands of years. Archaeologists recently found a garnet bead necklace worn by a young man in a grave that dates back to 3000 B.C. Garnet was used in earliest pre-dynastic Ancient Egypt. Excavations in Egypt have uncovered garnet jewelry dating back to 3100 B.C., garnet being used to construct necklaces for Pharaohs. In the ancient Roman world, it was not only popular with the Romans themselves (particularly for the carving of intaglios for signet rings), but also with the Germanic (“barbarian”) tribes in Northern Europe bordering the Roman Empire.

Garnet was also prominently featured in the magnificent cloisonné inlay jewelry found in sixth and seventh century burials in England at the Anglo-Saxon site of Sutto Hoo, and was also popular with the other peoples of ancient Britannia, including the Celts, Franks, and Normans. According to historical accounts, the King of Saxony is said to have had a garnet of over 465 carats. Classical Mediterranean cultures believed that a garnet could give its wearer guidance in the night, allowing them to see when others could not. Garnet was worn for protection when traveling, as garnet was believed to warn the wearer of approaching danger. The Persians considered garnet a royal stone, as did the Russians in Imperial times. Asian and North American Indian tribes used garnets as bullets, believing the stone would inflict fatal wounds. The Koran holds that the garnet illuminates the Fourth Heaven of Islam.

According to ancient Hebrew mythology, a giant garnet provided interior lighting for Noah's Ark. It is also believed that garnet, described as “nopek”, was one of the twelve gemstones described in the Bible in Exodus 28:17-20 as adorning Aaron’s breastplate, representing the twelve tribes of ancient Israel. The Greeks said it guarded children from drowning, and it was also thought to be a potent antidote against poisons. According to historical accounts, the Greek Philosopher Plato had his portrait engraved on a garnet by a Roman engraver. And according to Greek myth, garnet is symbolic of a quick return and separated love, since Hades had given a pomegranate to Persephone before she left him to ensure her speedy return. Therefore, Garnet was often given to a beloved one before embarking on a trip, as it was believed to heal the broken bonds of lovers.

In medieval times, garnet was thought to cure depression, protect against bad dreams, and relieve diseases of the liver, as well as hemorrhages. It was also believed that a garnet engraved with the figure of a lion was an all around effective charm that would protect and preserve health, cure the wearer of all disease, bring honors, and guard from all the possible perils of traveling. The wearing of a garnet talisman was also believed to protect against the plague (“Black Death”), lightening strikes, and was believed to change color so as to warn the wearer of impending danger. The Crusaders set Garnets into their body armor, believing the protective power of the stones would lead them to safety. From the 16th through 19th centuries, Bohemia, now a part of Czechoslovakia, was a tremendous source of garnet, and at one time, particularly in the Victorian Era, cutting, polishing, and mounting garnets was a very rich industry in that country. Many Bohemian castles and churches had magnificent interiors decorated with garnet.

The different varieties of garnet are found in almost all colors except blue. Brown, red, green, yellow, black, and colorless stones are the most common. Darker gemstones are usually opaque, and light ones may be transparent or translucent. The best known members of the Garnet family are the deep red varieties, the Pyrope and Alamandite. The Pyrope derives its name from the Greek word meaning "firelike". It was the Pyrope Garnet that figured in the ancient Talmudic legend, which held that the only light in Noah's Ark was supplied by an enormous red garnet. In the ancient eastern civilizations of China, India, and Tibet, gemstones were not only valued for their medicinal and protective properties, but also for educational and spiritual enhancement.

Today these traditional cultures regard garnet as a stone of "good health", capable of balancing an individual's energy, stimulate desires, uplift attitude, and increase popularity. Medicinally garnet was long believed to cure heart palpitations, varicose veins, lung diseases, and various diseases of the blood. It was believed to stimulate metabolism, purify and reenergize the blood, heart and lungs, and was used to treat spinal disorders and arthritis. Garnets were also worn to enhance bodily strength, endurance and vigor. It was widely believed to be extremely beneficial to wear a garnet when one had to physically exert oneself. For men, it was believed to keep the reproductive system healthy. For women, it was believed to promote hormonal balance and was said to reduce swelling.

On the meta-physical plane, garnets were believed to bring good fortune, love, and success, and to improve self-esteem, thus even today they are often carried by businessmen as a talisman. The stone is said to sharpen one’s perception both of self and of other people. Garnet is believed to balance the sex drive, and is said to aid in sexual potency and fertility, to enhance sexual attraction, and to liberate one’s sensual side and so enhance passion and love. Adherents claim that garnet moves a couple deeper into a passionate and sensual exploration of sexual magic. The stone is said to inspire commitment, monogamous and stable marriage, and promises one’s love, devotion, and fidelity. It is also believed to aid in finding true lovers [AncientGifts].

Andalusite: Andalusite from southern Spain was first described in literature in 1789. It’s likely that it was known in antiquity, but probably confused with another gemstone such as tourmaline, yellow topaz, or perhaps even citrine. When you consider the number of countries which were part of the Classical Mediterranean in which andalusite has been discovered, it seems inevitable that it was used at some point in antiquity. Deposits of andalusite (albeit many of them small) have been discovered in Finland, Norway, Sweden, England, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Ireland, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Morocco, Egypt, Arabia (United Arab Emirates), Burma (Myanmar), Ceylon (Sri Lanka), Siam (Thailand), China, Mongolia, and India.

However today, only a handful of countries produce gemstone quality andalusite, including Spain, Russia, Ceylon, Australia, Brazil, and Canada. Despite the number of localities where andaluste has been discovered, very few of the deposits have produced gemstone quality material. Transparent andalusite of gemstone quality is very rare. Faceted andalusite gemstones give a play of red, green, and yellow colors that seems almost iridescent (the shimmering play of colors seen with peacock feathers, black opal, black abalone mother-of-pearl, or for instance the sheen of gasoline floating atop a puddle of water). The mixture of colors is the result of unusually strong pleochroism, which means that when viewed from one side the gemstone exhibits one color, while from another side the color appears differently. In fact andalusite is one of the few gemstones which is “tricotic”, meaning three different colors are observable from different angles of view.

Because of this andalusite has sometimes been referred to as "poor man's alexandrite" because it offers color play similar to alexandrite, but generally costs considerably less. However whereas alexandrite actually changes color in response to different lighting sources, the multiple colors of andalusite are visible under all lighting conditions, not merely when the light source has been changed. Two other gemstones are part of the same “family” as andalusite, those being silimanite (generally cut as a cat’s-eye cabochon) and kyanite, which is a vibrant blue and also very rare in transparent, gemstone-quality material. However andalusite has been gaining popularity on its own merits, not merely as an alexandrite substitute. The attraction of andalusite comes from its play of colors if one changes the viewing angle. A similar effect is gained when the light comes from different directions.

Andalusite shows shades of yellow, brown, green and reddish brown depending on the orientation of the crystal. Those gemstones cut along the long axis such as an oval, marquis or emerald cut tend to show one color near the center and a second, usually darker color near the ends. Square and round cuts usually blend the colors into a mosaic. Though no record of the use of transparent andalusite gemstones exists from antiquity (at least recognizable references clearly and specifically identifying andalusite as andalusite), one particular variety of andalusite was in fact known in the ancient world as “lapis crucifer”, or “chiastolite”. These gemstones, translucent to near-transparent, contain inclusions of graphite which almost always are in the form of a cross when the gemstone is cut into cross-sections (like a log or sushi roll cut into slices).

In Medieval and Renaissance Europe these gemstones were worn by Catholics as an amulet to protect against the “evil eye”. This was in reference to the ancient belief that some evil sorcerers or witches had the ability to transmit evil with just a glance. Certain items of personal adornment (amulets, talismans, etc.) were thought to protect the wearer from the "evil eye" by the proviso of an always watchful open eye. Though particularly popular as a religious amulet, the “lapis crucifer” gemstone was also popular with the general population of Medieval and Renaissance Europe as well. In Brittany (France) these crystals were worn as a talisman. Local folklore held that the gemstones had dropped from the heavens.

It was believed that if the gemstone was worn so as to touch the skin, it would staunch the flow of blood. It was also thought to increase the secretion of milk. If a “lapis crucifer” talisman was worn suspended from the neck, it was thought to cure almost any kind of fever, and the divine symbol it bore served to drive away evil spirits from the vicinity of the wearer. Russian literary sources claim that orthodox monks have been carving andalusite into rosary beads for centuries, and that Russian monks used to provide rings cut from andalusite to the Knights Templar of Malta. Talismans of andalusite were also worn by Russian warriors and soldiers with the belief that it instilled bravery.

Travelers in Russia wore amulets of andalusite for protection, and both alchemists and philosophers used the stone as an amulet as well. Russian mystics believed that andaulsite aided in necromancy, the ability in séances to contact spirits from the “other side”. Wearing an andalusite talisman on the forehead was believed to be particularly effective. Under what name andalusite crystals (other than “lapis crucifer”) may have been known in the ancient world is indeterminable. Andalusite was likely misidentified as tourmaline or yellow topaz, perhaps even citrine/smoky quartz. Though one type of andalusite, “lapis crucifer”, was well-known in Medieval Europe, history is silent as to how transparent andalusite crystals may have been used for healing or for mystic or shamanic purposes, except in Russian history.

As described above, Russian mystics, alchemists, and philosophers all believed that andalusite had mystical powers. Russian history also documents that wearing an andalusite amulet was believed to benefit those suffering from heart and lung diseases, as well as nervous disorders, and was believed to bring harmony into the life of the wearer. However Western European history is silent as to the uses of andalusite crystals, excepting the variety known as “lapis crucifer” (chiastolite). However it is possible that the beliefs which modern practitioners hold pertaining to andalusite crystals may reflect ancient beliefs. It is common for such beliefs to be carried forward in folklore. In Western Europe and America present-day practitioners believe that andalusite is beneficial in the treatment of eye problems, water retention and calcium and/or iodine deficiencies. It is also said to be useful for those suffering from AIDS.

On the metaphysical plane, andalusite is often referred to as “the seeing stone” as it works to “see” the various sides of a person's character, or the various sides of a problem. Thus it is believed to enable the wearer to calmly and objectively analyze their personality and character, or view two sides of a situation or problem. Andalusite is also said to bring balance to one’s life and to enhance memory, mental clarity and intellect, and to stimulate problem solving abilities. Mystics and shamans believe that andalusite can also be used when trying to communicate with the spirit world, and as a talisman is useful to protect the wearer, and to encourage moderation and balance in life [AncientGifts].

Apatite: Apatite is a fairly rare gemstone. Though apatite itself is an exceedingly common mineral, transparent gemstone quality specimens are quite uncommon. Apatite is the mineral that makes up the teeth and bones in all vertebrate animals, from fish to man to dinosaur as well as their bones. In fact apatite is an elemental component of every living cell, plant and animal. Virtually all the phosphorus in the world today has either come from or is locked up in this one mineral, apatite, or what is called phosphate rock. It is quarried for use as a phosphate fertilizer.

Apatite gemstones are found in a variety of locations worldwide which include Russia, Czechoslovakia, Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Norway, Sweden, Canada, Mexico, the USA, Spain, Brazil, Burma, Ceylon, India, Israel, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa. Apatite gemstones are most typically found in blue, but the range of colors includes colorless, pink, yellow, green, brown, red, purple and violet. The most valuable form is a purple-colored variety found in the state of Maine, USA. Some of the blue and yellow apatite show chatoyancy (the cat’s-eye effect) and can be cut as cat's-eye cabochon gemstones.

The name “apatite” comes from the Greek "apatein", which means "to deceive", “to cheat”, or "to be misleading", as in the ancient world apatite was often confused with other minerals such as topaz, beryl, sphene, peridot or tourmaline. The Greek name “apatein” also is associated with “Apate”, the Greek goddess of deceit, benefactor of politicians. A minor goddess in the Greek pantheon, she was the daughter of Nyx, and one of the spirits inside Pandora's box. In the ancient and medieval world apatite was believed to enhance the wearer’s insight, learning abilities and creativity, and to give increased self-confidence. It was also believed useful in inducing deep states of meditation. Athletes and soldiers believed it useful in helping improve their coordination and to strengthen muscles, and to help suppress hunger (or “appetite”) and ease hypertension.

Wearing apatite was also believed useful in treating hyperactivity or its opposite, lethargy. It was believed that an elixir of apatite could be prepared by allowing apatite gemstones to sit outdoors overnight, preferable under a full moon, in a glass container of water. The elixir was then drunken to help strengthen bones and heal and prevent joint pain. Contemporary healers and mystics believe that apatite is highly psychic, facilitating intuition and ESP, as well as enabling the wearer to make contact with and commune with the higher self. Regular meditation with apatite is said to steadily improve the wearer’s concentration and memory, while also enhancing intuition.

It is also said to facilitate visions of the future. Apatite is also believed to increase stability and common-sense, helping the user to “keep their feet on the ground” and help plan for success. Apatite is believed to foster peace and harmony through enhanced communication. Encouraging intellectual pursuits, apatite is said to stimulate thoughts and ideas that enhance the intellect, as well as aid focus, learning, and clarity of concentration. It is also used to foster acceptance, oceanic consciousness and unconditional love.

Both green and blue apatite are said to encourage the wearer’s humanitarian side, aiding the wearer’s effectiveness along the path of service. Blue apatite in particular is believed to help with self-expression, communication and creativity as it assists in defining and understanding the meaning and uniqueness in this life. It is used to help in the release of difficulties and to clear mental confusion, and is also thought to stimulate clairvoyance and help one receive past life insights. Green apatite is said to help one accept and appreciate one's full worth. Yellow apatite calms anxiety and speeds up one's thought processes when anxious and pressed to find the right solution to a problem.

Physically, apatite may decrease hunger and has been used to help control weight gain. Apatite is believed useful for healing, regeneration and to provide the stamina and courage needed to face difficult problems or a long-term illness. Apatite gemstones are worn to help bones heal faster and stronger, and to treat the pain of arthritis. It is also believed to aid the absorption of calcium from the foods you eat, which helps to keep bones and teeth strong. It can also be worn to lower blood pressure, as high blood pressure is often related to calcium [AncientGifts].

Chrysoberyl: Chrysoberyl color ranges from a honey-yellow to yellow-green to an apple green to brown. Generally the yellow, green, and yellow-greenish-gold specimens are considered the most valued, the least valued being the brown. Though the largest deposits of this gemstone are in South Africa, with smaller deposits in Australia, Burma, and India; the most valued deposits, almost exhausted, are those from the Ural Mountains in Russia, specifically those around the city of Yekaterinburg, in the South Urals.

Some of the more noteworthy specimens include the incredible 563ct Star of India which resides in the American Museum of Natural History, and has a recorded history from the sixteenth century. It was mined in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and circulated among various Indian princes and kings for almost four hundred years, before being acquired by George Kunz, the noted American gemologist. Probably the finest cut chrysoberyl existing is probably the one exhibited in the Mineral Gallery of the British Museum (Natural History). Absolutely flawless and weighing 43 carats, it was formerly contained in the famous Hope collection.

The name Chrysoberyl is derived from the Greek words “Beryl”, meaning green and “Chryso”, meaning golden. The two words combined mean “gold colored beryl”. In spite what the name implies, chrysoberyl is not actually a Beryl at all. The gemstone was a very important trade good in ancient India, and was exported to and found enormous popularity in many Asian cultures. Chrysoberyls have long been considered a good luck charm in numerous cultures. It was treasured in Asia before the birth of Christ, was well-known in the ancient Near East in Old Testament times, and became quite well known in Rome by the end of the First Century A.D. The ancients believed that it would improve eyesight and to protect against evil. The ancient Persians and Arabs believed it could make one invisible on the battlefield. Chrysoberyl was also very popular in Victorian and Edwardian times, when it was often inaccurately referred to as Chrysolite [AncientGifts].

Chrysoberyl Cat’s-Eye: Chrysoberyl cat’s-eye gemstones were also worn in the Near East (as well as elsewhere in the ancient world) as protection against the “evil eye”. There was an ancient belief that some evil sorcerers or witches had the ability to transmit evil with just a glance. Certain items of personal adornment (amulets, talismans, etc.) were thought to protect the wearer from the "evil eye" by the proviso of an always watchful open eye and a chrysoberyl cat’s-eye gemstone was just that, an always open and watchful “eye” [AncientGifts].

SHIPPING & RETURNS/REFUNDS: We always ship books domestically (within the USA) via USPS INSURED media mail (“book rate”). Most international orders cost an additional $17.99 to $48.99 for an insured shipment in a heavily padded mailer. There is also a discount program which can cut postage costs by 50% to 75% if you’re buying about half-a-dozen books or more (5 kilos+). Our postage charges are as reasonable as USPS rates allow. ADDITIONAL PURCHASES do receive a VERY LARGE discount, typically about $5 per book (for each additional book after the first) so as to reward you for the economies of combined shipping/insurance costs.

Your purchase will ordinarily be shipped within 48 hours of payment. We package as well as anyone in the business, with lots of protective padding and containers. All of our shipments are fully insured against loss, and our shipping rates include the cost of this coverage (through stamps.com, Shipsaver.com, the USPS, UPS, or Fed-Ex). International tracking is provided free by the USPS for certain countries, other countries are at additional cost.

We do offer U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail, Registered Mail, and Express Mail for both international and domestic shipments, as well United Parcel Service (UPS) and Federal Express (Fed-Ex). Please ask for a rate quotation. Please note for international purchasers we will do everything we can to minimize your liability for VAT and/or duties. But we cannot assume any responsibility or liability for whatever taxes or duties may be levied on your purchase by the country of your residence. If you don’t like the tax and duty schemes your government imposes, please complain to them. We have no ability to influence or moderate your country’s tax/duty schemes.

If upon receipt of the item you are disappointed for any reason whatever, I offer a no questions asked 30-day return policy. Send it back, I will give you a complete refund of the purchase price; 1) less our original shipping/insurance costs, 2) less non-refundable payment processing fees. Please note that does NOT refund payment processing fees. Even if you “accidentally” purchase something and then cancel the purchase before it is shipped, will not refund their processing fees. So all refunds for any reason, without exception, do not include payment processing fees (typically between 5% and 15%) and shipping/insurance costs (if any). If you’re unhappy with ’s “no fee refund” policy, and we are EXTREMELY unhappy, please voice your displeasure by contacting . We have no ability to influence, modify or waive policies.

ABOUT US: Prior to our retirement we used to travel to Europe and Central Asia several times a year. Most of the items we offer came from acquisitions we made in Eastern Europe, India, and from the Levant (Eastern Mediterranean/Near East) during these years from various institutions and dealers. Much of what we generate on Etsy, Amazon and goes to support The Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, as well as some other worthy institutions in Europe and Asia connected with Anthropology and Archaeology. Though we have a collection of ancient coins numbering in the tens of thousands, our primary interests are ancient jewelry and gemstones. Prior to our retirement we traveled to Russia every year seeking antique gemstones and jewelry from one of the globe’s most prolific gemstone producing and cutting centers, the area between Chelyabinsk and Yekaterinburg, Russia. From all corners of Siberia, as well as from India, Ceylon, Burma and Siam, gemstones have for centuries gone to Yekaterinburg where they have been cut and incorporated into the fabulous jewelry for which the Czars and the royal families of Europe were famous for.

My wife grew up and received a university education in the Southern Urals of Russia, just a few hours away from the mountains of Siberia, where alexandrite, diamond, emerald, sapphire, chrysoberyl, topaz, demantoid garnet, and many other rare and precious gemstones are produced. Though perhaps difficult to find in the USA, antique gemstones are commonly unmounted from old, broken settings – the gold reused – the gemstones recut and reset. Before these gorgeous antique gemstones are recut, we try to acquire the best of them in their original, antique, hand-finished state – most of them centuries old. We believe that the work created by these long-gone master artisans is worth protecting and preserving rather than destroying this heritage of antique gemstones by recutting the original work out of existence. That by preserving their work, in a sense, we are preserving their lives and the legacy they left for modern times. Far better to appreciate their craft than to destroy it with modern cutting.

Not everyone agrees – fully 95% or more of the antique gemstones which come into these marketplaces are recut, and the heritage of the past lost. But if you agree with us that the past is worth protecting, and that past lives and the produce of those lives still matters today, consider buying an antique, hand cut, natural gemstone rather than one of the mass-produced machine cut (often synthetic or “lab produced”) gemstones which dominate the market today. We can set most any antique gemstone you purchase from us in your choice of styles and metals ranging from rings to pendants to earrings and bracelets; in sterling silver, 14kt solid gold, and 14kt gold fill. When you purchase from us, you can count on quick shipping and careful, secure packaging. We would be happy to provide you with a certificate/guarantee of authenticity for any item you purchase from us. There is a $3 fee for mailing under separate cover. I will always respond to every inquiry whether via email or message, so please feel free to write.