Sardonyx

There is a saying about sardonyx that for whoever wears it “stupidity will be eliminated.” It is also reputed to be a cure for tumors and beneficial to bones. Edgar Cayce appreciated it as a means to gain greater self-control. Sardonyx makes speakers more eloquent. It is also a crystal to use if you are struggling with depression.

This type of quartz is a real eye-catcher; sardonyx is a layered form of chalcedony that usually appears as alternating stripes of white or black onyx in combination with reddish brown chalcedony, or sard. This is a very popular stone for carving into beads, cameos, and intaglios. Historically, women wore sardonyx to attract a faithful lover. Roman soldiers preferred sardonyx with the god of war, Mars, or the great hero Hercules carved into it for valor.

This stone derives its exotic-sounding name from the Greek word sard, for Sardia, the capital city of the Asia Minor country Lydia. Mentioned in the Bible, it was designated to be the fifth foundation stone of Jerusalem and was associated with the Apostle Paul. It is now mined in Brazil, India, and Russia, in addition to Asia Minor. In ancient times, sardonyx was valued for courageous fighting spirit and lust for combat. It is great for explorers and those engaged in uncovering new territories. This is a crystal business executives should wear. In addition to being smarter and tumor-free, you can also drive away evil spirits and keep dark sorcerers at bay with this handy crystal. Here is a curious bit of lore: Any woman who owns sardonyx but neglects to wear it will be lonely. On the other side, it brings conjugal bliss and good fortune.