California – SERPENTINE & BENITOITE

California is home to so many rocks, minerals and gems that it not only has a State Gemstone, Benitoite, it also has a State Rock, Serpentine.  California was actually the first state to designate a State Rock.

Serpentine, usually a green and blue rock, is found throughout California and was so named because it resembles the skin of a snake.  It is, however, also found in a variety of colors including red, brownish red, brownish yellow and white.

It has been used since ancient times to guard against disease and sorcery.  Drinking vessels made of Serpentine were used to protect against poison.

Benitoite, only found in San Benito, California, is sometimes called the "blue diamond." It is a very rare gem that ranges in color from a light transparent blue to dark, sapphire blue.

Serpentine has been used to help one find inner peace.  It aids in meditation and improves spiritual exploration.  It can help one to restore their memories of past lives and retrieve forgotten knowledge.  Serpentine encourages the use of peaceful means to solve conflicts, corrects mental and emotional imbalances and helps one to let go of contained anger.

One can wear Serpentine to relieve lethargy, protect against poisonous creatures, relax cramps and balance mood swings.  Nursing women can use it to regulate their milk supply.  It can reduce kidney and stomach ailments; treat diabetes and aid in the absorption of calcium and magnesium.  Serpentine can control cardiac irregularities, assist with the healing of lung problems, relieve headaches, colds, and nervousness.

The addition of Serpentine to my necklace will strengthen my bones and stabilize my moods while protecting me from snakes and other creepy crawlers.

Serpentine was named the official State Rock of California in 1965.

Benitoite can be used to enhance psychic ability and clairvoyance.  It can also be helpful to overcome one's fear of water. 

Benitoite is believed to cure excessive bleeding and accelerate the healing process. 

California designated Benitoite as its official state gemstone in 1985.