Astrophyllite!
I found astrophyllite while gem shopping last winter. It is a new material for me that I have fallen in love with. It's pretty rare, and a real collector's stone. The warm copper colored crystals look like a radiating starburst and are found in a lighter colored matrix .It was first discovered in Norway and has been found since then in the U.S. (Colorado), Greenland, Russia, and Quebec.
Here is an astrophyllite (top stone) and black garnet (bottom stone) necklace, from the shop. I love the 2 natural surfaces together!
Astrophyllite is a softer stone, so I won't be making rings with it but earrings and necklaces, yes!
Metaphysically, astrophyllite is said to be a very energetic stone that will energize your entire being, while keeping you grounded. It is supposed to help you get over things in your past and encourage you to love yourself. I don't know if these claims are true but I know I will be on the lookout for more of this unusual and remarkable stone. Its rough earthy beauty is truly lovely!
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