Stones with a metallic lustre have a unique appeal and stand out due to their shiny colours. Their glittering and reflective surface draws them to the eye and visibly separates these gems from their surroundings.
The main crystals that fall into this unusual colour grouping are bornite (peacock ore), hematite, magnetite, marcasite (silver pyrites) and pyrites (fool's gold). In the past, metallic stones have been important sources of metal for humans. Bornite for copper, and hematite and marcasite for iron.
Alchemical Crystals
Marcasite and pyrites were used as sources of sulphur, of great importance to alchemists. Being very earthy with their high metal content, metallic crystals have often been used for magic associated with the earth, such as attracting wealth.
Healing with Copper Bracelets
Copper bracelets are tremendously popular today and are worn by people who might otherwise scoff at the healing powers of crystals.
It has been suggested that regular absorption of tiny amounts of copper through the skin into the body helps balance the levels of copper in your body systems, essential for the production of red blood cells and the utilisation of vitamin C.
Copper breacelets are worn to ease the painful symptoms of arthritis, rheumatism, Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, lumbago, PMS, sciatica and general aches and pains. It is also believed that they can protect you from the harmful effects of free radicals.
It is important to note that copper bracelets are often magnetised and these should not be worn by people with pacemakers or by pregnant women.
Using Metallic Crystals
Metallic crystals can alleviate physical ailments such as back pain and blood disorders, and also promote spiritual wellbeing and future happiness.
Lower Back Pain
Hematite works very well when applied directly to the Root Chakra and is used for problems with the lower area of the back.
To use your Root Chakra crystal remedy first anoint a piece of smooth hematite with cedarwood oil, remembering to apply the oil evenly all over the stone.
Root Remedy
To help ease lower back pain, gently rub your anointed crystal at the base of the spine in large circles, using slow, flowing movements. Carry the stone in a back trouser pocket to maintain a steady flow of healing power.
Blood Cleansing
Pyrites is associated with the blood and is often used by people with blood problems. The Romans actually believed that pyrites could be used for stopping 'blood decay'.
Clean the Blood
You can make your own crystal remedy with pyrites that uses the healing powers of the Sun to intensify the crystals 'magic'. Put the pyrites in a colourless bottle of water. Place the bottle next to a window that faces towards the Sun. Leave it there for six days and then add brandy to top up the mixture. Take five drops twice a day for as long as the condition persists.
Crystal Charms
Magnetite
The most common use of magnetite as a charm is to attract things to you. The Chinese called magnetite 't' su shi', meaning 'the loving stone', and in Sanskrit it is called 'chumbaka' meaning 'the kisser'.
To attract more love into your life, get a piece of magnetite and consecrate it with the four elements (use incense, a red candle and bowls of water and earth) saying 'magnetite draw love to me, that I may be truly happy'.
Hematite
The Ancient Egyptians were well aware of the value of hematite as an amulet to strengthen the Root Chakra. All of their amulets for treating lower back pain were made out of hematite.
Pyrites
Use this earthy metallic crystal in magic associated with the earth element, to help being forth its riches to promote the fertility and good fortune of a project or to boost your own financial investments.
Peacock Ore
This stone is an excellent charm to use to boost your self-esteem. The beauty of peacock ore makes you feel positive when you look at it, and it encourages the imagination and promotes belief.
To use, place a piece under your pillow at night, and each morning hold it in your hands and look at the stone for a couple of minutes, while reflecting on the day to come. Feel the vibrant energy of the stone fill you and help you feel positive.
Aid Clear Vision
The silvery metallic sheen of marcasite makes it an ideal substance to use as a mirror. As such you can use it to help you see situation and events with clarity and discrimination rather than with undue optimism or pessimism.
Making decisions
When you need to make a difficult decision, hold your piece of marcasite in your preferred hand and say 'Marcasite by the power in you, aid me now with true vision'.