Astrophyllite is a rare gem. This is a type of “brittle micas”. Its name comes from two Greek words that translate as “mica-like star.”
Astrophyllite was discovered in 1854. Experts have studied its composition, which contains sodium, barium, aluminum, titanic acid, manganese and calcium. Its color and level of transparency depend on the percentage of impurities. The range of shades varies between golden brown and yellow-bronze tones. In this regard, mineralologists have identified numerous types of stone. It is characterized by a special optical effect. Each variety has a star shape. The number of its rays ranges from 3 to 12.
The mineral is used as a decorative element of premises. Astrophyllite is used to create interior items and jewelry. He is quite young, but, nevertheless, endowed with healing and magical qualities. True, esotericists, lithotherapists and astrologers have not yet fully studied them.
Astrophyllite is widely known and popular. It is used as a talisman and an effective means of strengthening the immune system.
Description and external signs of the stone
The stone has the richest content of various elements such as sodium, aluminum, barium, titanic acid, calcium and manganese. And the percentage of these diverse impurities determined the color scheme and degree of transparency of astrophyllite - the precious mineral has shades from dark golden to intense yellow. When exposed to direct sunlight, the stone emits an amber sheen.
Astrophyllite has an interesting optical effect - it looks in the shape of a star, the number of rays of which varies depending on the type of stone, ranging from 3 to 12.
Chemical composition, physical and optical properties
Astrophyllite is the rarest and most complex mineral in terms of composition.
Its chemical properties determine the type of stone:
- The chemical formula of a precious gem looks like this: (K, Na)3 (Mn, Fe)7Ti2(Si4O12)2 (O, OH, F)7.
- Typical impurities: Nb, Ta, Zr, Al, Mg, Ca.
Physical features of the gem:
- Molecular weight: 1,289.00;
- IMA class: valid since 1959;
- Mohs hardness: 3;
- Strength: brittle;
- Density: 3.2 - 3.4 g/cm3;
- Type: biaxial.
Optical characteristics of the precious mineral:
- Refractive indices: nα = 1.680 nβ = 1.700 nγ = 1.730;
- Maximum birefringence: δ = 0.050;
- Dispersion of optical axes: absent;
- Syngony: triclinic.
General information about the stone
Astrophyllite is a semi-precious mineral from the group of “brittle micas”. Its internal structure contains a large number of various impurities. Among them are titanic acid, barium, sodium, manganese, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, zirconium and other chemical elements. The term astrophillite was coined by the German chemist Theodor Scheyerer. He was the first to describe this mineral back in 1854.
The name of the stone comes from the Greek word “aster”, which translates as “star”. The mineral astrophyllite is most often present in pegmatites and syenites. In these rocks it tends to form elongated crystals and complex fibrous aggregates with a "star" shape (hence the name).
Depending on the color and pattern of the stone, there are several varieties. The most common of them have the following names:
- "Golden Rain".
- "Palm".
- "Star of Lapland"
Mineral deposits
Today, deposits of such rare natural stone are found in nature in only three places throughout the world:
- Greenland;
- Norway;
- Russia (Kola Peninsula).
Astrophyllite was discovered by the German mineralogist Theodor Scheerer in the Norwegian region. Now, the gem has its location in many countries: the USA, Central Asia, Canada, Spain, South Africa, Greenland and the Baikal region. The most striking representatives of this species are mined in the Hibbins in the area of Mount Eveslogchorr - they are famous for their large size and regular geometric shape of the stone.
Interesting fact: in the Hibbins you can find minerals of various shapes - both in the form of stars, and round, oblong, or even as independent crystals. The size of minerals in area can reach up to fifteen centimeters.
Origin and distribution in nature
The astrophyllite stone is of igneous origin. It is most often found in alkaline pegmatites and nepheline syenites. Moreover, in rocks it is often adjacent to the following minerals: zircon, titanite, biotite, aegirine, feldspar. Occasionally, astrophyllites are found in quartz or white albite. Such specimens are most valuable to geologists and collectors.
The fairy tales of the Scandinavian writer Tove Marika Jansson describe a bright star that fell into a fiord and split into millions of small shiny pieces. The fantasy of the famous storyteller in this case was based on facts: astrophyllite was first discovered precisely on the Scandinavian Peninsula, in Norway.
Areas of application
The mineral is widely used in interior design, as a basis for creating interior items, and has had tremendous success in the production of jewelry.
The precious stone is widely used by jewelers in their work, due to the fact that it fits organically into the field of jewelry and as an additional element of interior items.
The Astrophyllite mineral is often used in the jewelry industry and as interior decorative elements. It is used to decorate mirrors and small household items. It is also useful in making decorative boxes, wall tiles, and countertops.
Having a non-standard shape, the gem fits perfectly into such types of cuts as the following:
- Flat;
- Volumetric;
- Corner;
- Rounded.
It is used to produce jewelry: beautiful earrings, unusual pendants, elegant necklaces, and is used as an insert for other jewelry. The gemstone combines perfectly with other minerals. And the colorful transition of several shades of the mineral makes it possible to combine a unique piece of astrophyllite jewelry with an outfit of any color and style.
Although Astrophyllite is a fairly new stone, its unique healing and magical properties have been established. The gem is in great demand as a talisman or amulet, ensuring harmony on the path of life and helping to preserve and improve health.
Magical features of the gem
Astrophyllite provides those who wear it with a huge charge of positive energy, adds life wisdom and helps maintain clarity of mind. These qualities make it indispensable for older people. The stone changes your mood for the better and increases confidence in your strengths and capabilities.
Having acquired this mineral as a symbol, a person becomes much more confident and is able to achieve his goal, not paying attention to the obstacles ahead.
The stone is recommended for regular wear by those who have lost faith in a happy future and despair in the present. Also, this mineral is excellent for meditation - it perfectly cleanses the mind, protects the body and provides the opportunity to achieve the highest form of being.
Astrophyllite is actively used by magical successors and sorcerers, being a kind of portal for moving the individual’s soul to the outside world and providing the soul with protection from evil spells. The mineral is capable of helping to discover the gift of clairvoyance and helps to recognize echoes of the past and future.
Astrophyllite is a stone of family relationships, helping to revive feelings and feel for a partner.
It has the unique property of smoothing out conflicts, introducing tolerance, understanding into the life line of spouses, and smoothing out negative memories, providing passage to a new happy life.
Healing characteristics of the gem
The mineral is popular in stone therapy when providing therapeutic effects for some specific pathologies. Astrophyllite renews the reproductive system of both women and men, and helps in getting rid of impotence or frigidity.
The stone has a positive effect on the digestive tract, accelerating the metabolic process and ensuring complete absorption of food intake. Thanks to this, it is very popular among people seeking to lose excess weight.
The stone strengthens and restores the nervous system, helps get rid of depression.
Scientists confirm that the precious mineral reduces the impact of electromagnetic radiation, which is why the stone is relevant for those who spend a lot of time at the computer. An additional advantage is the stone’s ability to remove harmful emissions from electronic equipment.
The mineral increases the body's resistance to infections and prevents the occurrence of diseases.
This is one of the special gems that has no medical contraindications.
Which zodiac sign is it suitable for?
Astrological forecasts indicate that the stone makes positive changes in the energy aura of representatives of absolutely all zodiac signs. But still, the gem has the best effect on those born in the air or fire elements, especially in the months of Virgo, Capricorn or Leo.
The magical properties of astrophyllite stone
Esotericists claim that astrophyllite endows its owner with reserves of positive energy. It helps a person maintain hope and faith in a bright future in any conditions. With its help, it is possible to strengthen strength and clear mind. In this regard, the mineral is very useful for older people.
The magical properties of the astrophyllite stone are manifested in improving the mood. It gives its owner self-confidence and helps to achieve the implementation of his plans. With his assistance, a person gains interest in what is happening and finds his purpose.
Astrophyllite should be used during meditation. It helps to clear the mind and allows you to concentrate as much as possible.
Astrophyllite is quite young, but already very popular among sorcerers and magicians. There is a point of view that the mineral promotes contact of the human soul with other worlds. For this reason, it is actively used in rituals whose purpose is astral travel. At the same time, it protects the body when the soul leaves it.
The magical properties of the astrophyllite stone help to reveal extrasensory and clairvoyant tendencies. It is believed that with its help one can look into the past and predict the course of the future. True, only knowledgeable people should use it for such purposes. An ordinary person should not go on astral travel, as this is fraught with unforeseen consequences.
According to esotericists, astrophyllite is a stone of family. He has the power to revive love and affection. In addition, under its influence, relationships become honest and sincere, and spouses become understanding and loyal. The gem does not allow clarification of relationships, conflict situations and disagreements.
Astrophyllite - a powerful star mineral
This mineral is not included in the jewelry elite. But each fragment is unique and unrepeatable thanks to its original shapes and surface pattern. Astrophyllite stone is appreciated by lovers of minerals and astral travel. He is able to help everyone.
Description
From ancient Greek the name of the mineral is translated as “aster” - star and “phyllon” - leaf. It corresponds well with the description: externally, astrophyllite resembles an aster flower (star) or it is flat three-layer agglomerates (leaf).
However, the mineral’s connection with the star is twofold: the general appearance of the intergrowths plus the asterism effect inherent in the crystals. They are slightly flattened rhombuses with a 3-12-rayed star on the surface. Its outlines are visible under a magnifying glass, and its golden reflections are visible to the naked eye.
| Formula | (K,Na)3(Fe,Mn)7Ti2[Si4O12]2(O,OH,F)7 |
| Impurity | Nb, Ta, Zr, Al, Mg, Ca |
| Color | brown, bronze yellow, golden yellow |
| Stroke color | brownish yellow |
| Shine | glass, with mother-of-pearl and metallic tints on the cleavage planes |
| Transparency | shines through in thin edges |
| Hardness | 2—3 |
| Cleavage | very perfect in |
| Kink | splintery |
| Density | 3.2-3.4 g/cm³ |
| singonia | Triclinic |
In nature, stone is more often found in igneous rocks. In addition to crystals and plates, there are matted growths resembling felt. Collectors hunt for such specimens.
What is a mineral
From a chemist's point of view, astrophyllite is a complex silicate. It contains dozens of elements, including rare earths. But titanium is always present.
The diversity of astrophyllite composition makes classification difficult. It was decided to conduct it on the basis of the dominant element: niobophyllite, magnesiophyllite, zircophyllite, others.
Almost always, astrophyllite is presented as intergrowths into other minerals.
Astrophyllite in quartz
Its surface is never monochrome, it is always pointed and patterned. This characteristic allows you to distinguish a natural stone from a fake.
Place of Birth
The first astrophyllites were discovered in Norway in the mid-19th century. The German mineralogist Theodor Scheerer was lucky. He described the find and came up with a name for it. Today, the extraction of the mineral is established on all continents, but the best star specimens are produced in the north of Europe: Norway, Russia, Greenland.
Astrophyllite crystal
Russian stone deposits are concentrated on the Kola Peninsula, in the Khibiny Mountains (the southern slope of Mount Eveslogchorr). The largest (up to 15 cm) geometrically perfect star astrophyllites are found here.
The state of Washington (USA) delights with top-class collection material – smoky quartz with astrophyllite inclusions.
Where is the stone used?
Areas of application for fragile astrophyllite are “impractical”: decoration, collecting, jewelry making.
Decor
The mineral is used in interior design: wall panels, countertops, fireplace linings.
The low hardness of the stone allows stone carvers not to restrain their flight of imagination: desk writing utensils, lighters, and tablet holders are decorated with astrophyllite. Candelabra, boxes, and figurines are made from stone. Fans of esotericism are offered pyramids, eggs, and balls.
Collecting
The variety of colors and configurations of astrophyllite allows you to create a personal collection. For the mineral you can go to the Kola Peninsula or the Khibiny Mountains. Or purchase samples on Russian Internet sites. The mineral is offered in the form of tumbling, independent fragments, formations with quartz, feldspar, and exotics such as albite, rinkite, richterite, and erygine.
Jewelry
The jewelry and ornamental stone astrophyllite does not appear in the catalogs of large manufacturers of serial products. Hand-made masters work with him.
Pendant with astrophyllite
They offer pendants, necklaces, brooches, rings, earrings. The names of the products are romantic: pendants “Galaxy”, “Winter is Coming”, “Rhythms of the Universe”, ring “Tales of Scheherazade”.
However, it is impossible to create an astrophyllite parure (a set of several items with identical inserts).
As a last resort, a set of two jewelry (for example, a ring plus earrings). The uniqueness of the pattern makes each mineral item unique.
Discreet colors and moderate shine of the stone allow you to wear astrophyllite jewelry with a business-like ladies' and men's wardrobe.
Price
The network offers a not particularly wide range of astrophyllite products (price/rub.):
- lighter, decorated with astrophyllite, – 1,800-2,900;
- egg made of astrophyllite in feldspar (51x38 mm) – 3,950;
- ball of astrophyllite in albite (64 mm) – 4,970;
- agglomerate 7x11 cm – 780.
- ring (silver) – 9,400;
- brooch (nickel silver) – 3,750;
- pendant (silver) – 5,800;
- earrings + ring (silver) – 18,500.
Earrings with astrophyllite
The craftsmen note in the product description: it is impossible to make a second similar copy.
Combination with other gems
Aesthetically, astrophyllite harmonizes with Czech glass, serpentine, carnelian, jasper, and quartz.
But only the last two stones are magically compatible. Therefore, in astrophyllite jewelry-talismans or amulets, the presence of only jasper or quartz of any color is permissible.
Stone care rules
Caring for jewelry with astrophyllite is easy:
- The main condition is to protect them from falls and impacts . A fragile mineral cannot withstand loads above average.
- The stone is not afraid of the sun and water; you can flaunt the accessories on the beach or in the pool.
- You need to remove dirt with neutral detergents or baby soap. It’s better to prevent its accumulation by wiping the product after each use.
- The jewelry frame is cleaned in such a way that the product does not get on the insert stone.
Ring with astrophyllite
Collectible material, especially needle-shaped specimens, are allocated a separate, durable, spacious box.
Therapeutic effect
Lithotherapists have identified the healing properties of the stone:
- Strengthens the immune system, increasing the body's resistance to viruses and infections. Astrophyllite is especially useful in spring and autumn, during the season of epidemics.
- Heals the male and female reproductive system. Helps get rid of impotence or frigidity.
- It has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract: promotes more complete absorption of food, improves metabolism, helps remove waste and toxins.
Astrophyllite stone is recommended for those who want to lose weight.
- Strengthens the nervous system: calms, normalizes sleep, eliminates the effects of stress, relieves depression.
- Neutralizes the effect of electromagnetic radiation and helps cleanse the room of accumulated “charge”. This is a talisman for a person who works in hazardous conditions or at a computer.
Pristine astrophyllite absorbs radiation. This makes the stone an indispensable attribute in front of a monitor, TV, microwave, and other similar devices.
Astrophyllite is one of the few minerals suitable for improving health for everyone.
Magic properties
Esotericists have determined what effect a star stone has on a person:
- This powerful mineral nourishes the owner energetically, making him stronger and healthier. Maintains sanity by inhibiting dementia. Therefore, it is recommended for older people.
- Even in a hopeless situation, a person believes in himself, maintains hope, analyzing the state of affairs with a “cool head.”
- The magic of the stone helps you achieve your goal and helps you overcome obstacles on the way to it.
Astrophyllite is a salvation for people who are disappointed in everything, desperate. With the stone they will again feel a taste for life and find themselves.
- The stone is of particular importance as a guardian of family ties: it is able to revive fading feelings; makes spouses more tolerant, more tolerant; does not allow conflicts to even arise.
- Helps get rid of memories of past mistakes and reckless actions. With such a talisman it is easier to turn the page and start life from scratch.
In addition to everyday situations, the magical properties of astrophyllite are useful to practicing magicians, yogis and their “colleagues”:
- The stone helps to clear the mind, opening access to higher levels. Practitioners of yoga value astrophyllite as a tool for meditation.
- For sorcerers and magicians, this is a companion when traveling through the astral plane. The body amulet protects the wearer’s physical body from the penetration of foreign entities while the soul is traveling. True, such voyages are the lot of experienced magicians. Beginning wizards risk not returning to their own body, getting lost in endless other worlds.
The mineral is suitable for those who want to activate the “third eye” and become clairvoyants.
Astrophyllite and Zodiac
Astrologers assure: astrophyllite suits all zodiac signs to varying degrees.
The mineral is fully compatible with Virgo and Capricorn.
Compatibility table of astrophyllite with zodiac signs (“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated).
| Zodiac sign | Compatibility |
| Aries | + |
| Taurus | + |
| Twins | + |
| Cancer | + |
| a lion | + |
| Virgo | +++ |
| Scales | + |
| Scorpion | + |
| Sagittarius | + |
| Capricorn | +++ |
| Aquarius | + |
| Fish | + |
They will become confident optimists and achieve goals. And the pebble will remove obstacles on the way.
The rest of the signs must “get used to” the stone: communicate, carry it with them, care for it. Only after a while will he become a magical assistant.
Conclusion
Astrophyllite is financially accessible to everyone. The surface and configuration make each piece unique. Any piece of jewelry with it is unique and inimitable; you won’t get tired of looking at the collectible material for hours.
You can add to your home collection without leaving your home country: the North of Russia will offer stones for every taste.
What is a mineral
From a chemical point of view, astrophyllite is a complex silicate. Contains dozens of elements, including rare earths. But titanium is always present.
The diversity of astrophyllite composition makes classification difficult. It was decided to conduct it on the basis of the dominant element - niobophyllite, magnesiophyllite, circophyllite and others.
Astrophyllite is almost always represented by growths of other minerals.
Astrophyllite in quartz
Its surface is never one color, it is always pointed. This feature allows you to distinguish natural stone from a fake.
Combination with other gems
Aesthetically, astrophyllite harmonizes with Czech glass, serpentine, carnelian, jasper, and quartz.
But only the last two stones are magically compatible. Therefore, in talismans or amulets of astrophyllite jewelry, the presence of only jasper or quartz of any color is allowed.
Medicinal properties
Immunity boosting stone
The mineral is used for the following problems:
- metabolic disorders;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- disorders of the reproductive system;
- overweight;
- insomnia;
- disruptions in the functioning of the nervous system;
- painful condition during PMS and menopause.
The breed increases the body's immunity to viral and bacterial infections and neutralizes the effects of electromagnetic radiation.
Astrophyllite and Zodiac
Astrologers assure: astrophyllite, to one degree or another, suits all zodiac signs.
The mineral is fully compatible with Virgo and Capricorn.
Table of compatibility of astrophyllite with zodiac signs (“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated).
| Zodiac sign | Compatibility |
| Aries | + |
| Bull | + |
| Twins | + |
| Shrimp | + |
| a lion | + |
| Virgin | +++ |
| Balance | + |
| Scorpion | + |
| Sagittarius | + |
| Capricorn | +++ |
| Aquarium | + |
| Fish | + |
They will become confident optimists and achieve their goals. And the pebble will remove obstacles on the way.
The remaining signs must “get along” with the stone: communicate, carry, protect. Only after a while will he become a magical assistant.
Price
There is not a very wide range of astrophyllite products online (price / rub.):
- lighter decorated with astrophyllite - 1,800-2,900;
- astrophyllite egg in feldspar (51x38 mm) - 3950;
- sphere made of albite astrophyllite (64 mm) - 4970;
- sintered 7x11 cm - 780.
Jewelry (price / rub.):
- ring (silver) - 9,400;
- brooch (nickel silver) - 3750;
- pendant (silver) - 5,800;
- earrings + ring (silver) - 18,500.
Earrings with astrophyllite
The craftsmen note in the product description: it is impossible to make a similar second copy.
