Connecticut – ALMANDINE GARNET

Connecticut, another state without a designated gemstone, has elected an old favorite as its state mineral, Almandine Garnet.  Although unlike Pennsylvania (2 gemstones ago), Connecticut is one of the most plentiful sources of this brilliant gemstone in the world.

This mineral’s hardness has made the garnet useful as an abrasive, resulting in an important industry throughout Connecticut's history, the production of garnet grinding wheels, saws, and a superior variety of sandpaper, garnet paper.

The addition of the Almandine Garnet to my necklace will keep my eyes healthy, prevent panic attacks (good luck) and encourage my creativity.   (See Pennsylvania’s post for more healing properties of the Almandine Garnet.)

The Almandine Garnet was named the state mineral of Connecticut by its General Assembly in 1977.   

New Hampshire – SMOKY QUARTZ

Quartz, the most common of all minerals, has been, over the ages, the mineral most commonly used as a gemstone.  Quartz crystal has been used in religious rites and by shamans for thousands of years.  Ancients thought Quartz to be solidified water or ice and therefore used it to bring rain to many parts of the globe.  Wiccans use Quartz to represent the God and Goddess, the creative powers of the universe.   Myths often have Quartz as the protector of forest and gardens. 

Throughout history, Quartz mounted in silver, was worn by the British as amulets against illness.
Smoky Quartz is nature's stone of endurance.  Carry it with you for that extra boost.  Smoky Quartz also promotes joy in living, creativity in business, and the desire to learn.  It also enhances organizational skills.  Place Smoky Quartz by your bed to improve dream interpretation.

Smoky Quartz is a protection stone that reduces negative energy and enables you to get everyday things done. 

Smoky Quartz can help to relieve depression, build self esteem and provide balance to the nervous system.

Physically, Smoky Quartz improves the overall health of the kidneys, abdomen, pancreas and reproductive organs and helps to reduce menstrual cramps, fertility issues and water retention.

It is thought to relieve headaches, back pain and ease muscular spasms.  Smoky Quartz benefits the heart, muscles and nerve tissue and helps the body to absorb minerals.

The addition of Smoky Quartz to my necklace will keep me more organized, in a better mood and prevent my ankles from swelling.

New Hampshire selected the Smoky Quartz as its official gemstone in 1985.  (Maybe that’s why everyone is so happy there and I thought it was the lack of Income Tax.)