Jet is a black stone and a victim of prejudice

Jet is a stone with a magical past, valued by psychics and stone therapists.
It protects against damage, cleanses the space around you and helps to cope with problems. The crystal is of organic origin, which means it has unprecedented power. Who is it suitable for? Why were they afraid of him before? And how to use the mineral so that it brings benefits? We'll find out now.

Description of physical and chemical properties

Jet is not a mineral. This is an organic breed. How did the compressed layers of the fossil come about? Experts assure: the ancient coniferous tree Araucaria, having fallen into the water and being saturated with it, sank to the bottom, it was enveloped in clay, silt, and for thousands of years the wood was carbonized inside without access to oxygen, after which coal was formed.

Sometimes a tree, while decomposing, did not fall apart into its components and appeared to contemporaries in its preserved form, but charred. But more often, raw materials are found in the form of layers between layers of clay and ordinary coal.

Gisher

80 percent of jet consists of carbon. The best examples are bright black. There are other shades: bluish-black, brown-brown. Specimens of a uniform tone with a brilliant pearlescent sheen are prized.

Despite its looseness and lightness, the stone changes its structure when heated from 120 degrees, that is, it is quite durable. At the same time, it is malleable and scratches easily. Good viscosity does not allow jet to be split without effort. It lacks a crystal lattice. Sudden changes in temperature are undesirable, as is high humidity. The inside of the jet is homogeneous. Shells are visible on the chips.

Black Jasper

Place of Birth

Jet is found:

• in marls;
• sandstones;
• thin clayey shales;
• layers of weakly metamorphosed brown and hard coals.

Deposits are located in many countries:

• Great Britain;
• France;
• Germany;
• Spain;
• Ukraine;
• Georgia;
• China;
• India;
• Vietnam;
• USA.

Russian deposits are located in Kamchatka, Sakhalin, Crimea, and Irkutsk region.

Mining locations

For the first time, mineral extraction was established in Asia Minor on the Gages River. It is believed that this is where the name came from. Some researchers argue, however, that the most likely origin is from the word “gasher”. This is the name of the Georgian jet, and means “night”.

The stone was found in different parts of the world. Mainly in Europe: in the UK, Germany, Spain, France, Russia. Today deposits are being developed in America, China, Vietnam, Georgia, and Ukraine. The stone is also mined in Russia - in Crimea, Kamchatka, and the Irkutsk region.

Jet

History of the mineral

Jet is an ornamental stone found in the territory of modern Turkey. Its name was given to it by the Gages River, near which it was discovered. The mineral has caused a lot of controversy in the scientific community. There has been debate about its origins and alternative names. In fact, these debates are still ongoing.

The crystal is also known under other names - gisher, black jasper, black amber.

Like amber, jet is electrified and burns, but has nothing to do with amber. This name appeared by mistake. One of the 19th century authors called jet "Succinum nigrum", black amber. Studying his works, other writers borrowed the name, and it stuck.

For a long time the stone remained unnoticed. Then he was avoided because of mourning associations. Jet came into fashion only in the 1850s, when the mineral appeared at stone exhibitions in London.

Queen Victoria contributed to the even greater popularity of the stone. She wore mourning for her husband, and a woman in mourning in those days was supposed to dress all in black. Funeral attire implied not only the absence of bright colors, but also the discreet cover of the dress. Jewelry, if worn, also had to be black.

The Queen chose jet and wore it for 40 years. Gradually, people got used to the “scary” gem, stopped being afraid and even became imbued with its charm. That's how it came into fashion.

The magical properties of jet were appreciated by thrill-seekers. At the beginning of the 20th century, just at the peak of the popularity of jet, a fashionable entertainment appeared - calling the spirits of the dead using a special board. This crystal was also used during such sessions.

What do agate and amber have in common?

The first jet is related only by its similar name, otherwise there is nothing similar. When people say “black agate” about jet, this is a misconception. Black agates are not found in nature.

But jet is truly a “brother” to amber. It is even called “black amber”. And there is no discrepancy with common sense. Commonality is in origin. The formation of both stones is due to the presence of resin from coniferous trees. Without access to oxygen on the seabed, the wood did not rot, but petrified over time.

Amber and jet burn and become electrified. Both are warmer to the touch than other stones and quite light. And their hardness is identical - 3.5 points on the Mohs scale.

Coal's relative

A gemstone is neither a mineral nor a stone in the scientific sense of the word. Gaygate, jet, is a fossil. Its formation occurred as a result of carbonization of coniferous trees. Common trees found in Russia, such as spruce and pine, cannot become material for jasper. Requires a tree that can reach a height of up to 90 m; this genus is called Araucaria.

These trees grew during the Permian period of the Earth's development; most of them died out during the Ice Age. Now they can only be found in the tropics. Their number is very small, but excavations confirm that they grew throughout the planet.

Physical properties of petrified charcoal.

1. Hardness on the Mohs scale 3-3.5
2. Density 1300-1400 kg/m³
3. The composition is carbonate.
4. Its origin is organic.
5. Dependence of the color intensity of a formed piece of rock on its age.
6. The mass is homogeneous.
7. Coating cracking.
8. Flammability.
9. Heterogeneity or inclusions of pyrite.

From the descriptions of geologists it is known that sometimes gypsum can be mistaken for morion. This is typical for polished samples that reflect light well. The material is sensitive to temperature and reacts less well to moisture. In the past, jet was used in candles; the ember burned very brightly, but not for long.

Magical properties of jet

The black stone has powerful energy, which indicates its magical properties. Jet has a strong reputation as a stone of protection against dark forces.

Ancient alchemists certainly owned it as a talisman, and spiritualists used it during communication sessions with the other world. Jet did not allow dark forces to approach a dangerous distance for the living, but at the same time facilitated contact with the dead.

The main meaning of the stone is the ability to recognize truth and deception, identify dishonest people, and warn the owner about a deceptive trap. Helps you overcome cowardice and indecision, and becomes more confident in yourself and your future. Placed under the pillow, it relieves nightmares.

It is believed that a person with jet on his body becomes invisible to others. Therefore, in ancient times, the pebble was constantly accompanied by soldiers, thieves, postmen, and everyone who wanted to be invisible to their enemies.

Jewelry with jet

Black-resin beads or pendants are worn by people suffering from the loss of loved ones. The magic of the stone softens the pain of unrequited love.

It is believed that black amber strengthens sexual attraction to members of the opposite sex and creates aversion to same-sex relationships.

The color of a fossil leaves an imprint on its perception. In Asian countries, black is associated with celebration, joy, and fun. Therefore, stones of this color are considered talismans for happiness, wealth, and good luck. In Europe, black is often perceived as a mourning color. Hence the long-standing tradition of wearing jet jewelry at funerals and during mourning.

And it has long found application in the religious sphere. For example, in a church a stone is set on fire to burn incense during ceremonial services. Hare Krishnas flavor incense sticks with its particles. Burning jet has a pleasant resinous smell.

In general, the stone is used as:

• amulet from evil forces;
• love spell talisman;
• fortune telling assistant;
• meditation tool.

Warning the owner of impending troubles, jet products become dull and cold.

Medicinal properties

They claim that this unusual and mysterious stone can cure even a seriously ill person. Beneficial effects have been identified with:

• headaches;
• problems with the intestines and stomach;
• intoxications;
• hypertension and hypotension;
• blurred vision;
• convulsions;
• joint diseases;
• even oncology.

Black stone radiates heat. You can feel it to the touch. To improve your well-being, a pebble or jewelry made from it should be constantly worn on yourself or applied to a sore spot, and massaged. Massaging the head with jet balls has a positive effect on a person. It calms you down and drives away bad thoughts. To ease your mental state, recover from stress, and protect yourself from the evil eye, it is recommended to wear jet.

Earrings with jet

This fossil has another miraculous ability - the ability to help a woman get pregnant. And get rid of other gynecological diseases.

The specific smell of the stone, which intensifies when heated, has a positive effect on the sick person.

Application in astrology

Not all zodiac signs are suitable for the jet stone. Astrologers insist: Cancers and Pisces should certainly have it in their arsenal. People of these signs who are insecure (according to the horoscope) will receive confidence from the stone, learn to cope with timidity and constant hesitation, develop the ability to defend their own opinion, and begin to think soberly without fear of acting.

It is recommended to use black amber as an amulet of good luck for Scorpios and Capricorns. It smooths out rough edges in relationships, helps to find a common language with others, avoiding stressful situations.

Ring with black amber

But already strong Leos, Aquarius, Aries under its influence risk becoming even more self-confident and hot-tempered, which will not be beneficial.

According to the zodiac sign, it is suitable very limitedly for Libra, Virgo, and Taurus. They need to be careful with jet, using it only as a temporary talisman. There is a possibility that the nervous system will become unstable and spiritual harmony will be destroyed.

(“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated).

All this applies to adults. But children and teenagers, according to astrology, can wear such jewelry regardless of what zodiac sign they belong to. The stone helps to clarify consciousness and pushes towards the right choice of life path.

Health Importance

The world has known about the healing properties of jet stone for a long time. The sacred knowledge about what and how black amber can heal was passed on to us by previous generations. Previously, folk healers treated the mineral, now this is done by people called lithotherapists.

The black mineral calms pain of various types - headaches, dental pain, joint pain.

They are easy to distinguish from healers and healers. In the arsenal of sorcerers, herbs, decoctions and tinctures made from them, spells, talismans. Lithotherapists use natural stones for treatment, complementing therapy sessions with aromatic incense.

Health benefits of the stone:

• promotes tumor resorption;
• treats kidney diseases;
• helps with bladder problems;
• improves liver and pancreas function;
• normalizes blood pressure - used for both hypotension and hypertension.

There is an opinion that the properties of jet will be the same for any jewelry. But no. The appearance of the talisman also makes its contribution:

• Bracelets are used for joint pain.
• To improve the functioning of internal organs, it is recommended to wear a pendant on a long chain.
• Toothache is relieved with water infused with jet. Previously, healers offered a more bizarre method of treatment - drinking wine boiled with a stone.

The black crystal works as a sponge, drawing out all the dirt from the human body. By filtering pathogenic energy, black amber can become unusable, like a clogged filter. In order for the amulet to act stably, cleanse it of negativity with special magical rituals.

You can use salt. It has long been used to cleanse talismans from all the nastiness that they have taken upon themselves. A more powerful way is purification by fire. Pass the amulet over the candle flame an odd number of times (preferably three or seven, these are magic numbers), rinse with water.

Use in jewelry

Jet is easy to process, when polished it acquires a beautiful pearlescent shine, looks presentable when mounted, and is inexpensive. All of the above are the reasons for the abundance of jewelry made from stone. Jet jewelry includes beads, pendants, rings, bracelets, earrings, and rosaries. Thanks to traditional ideas about black stone, all products decorate and at the same time protect the owner, being an amulet and talisman.

Products from gisher

Figurines of animals and people from gasher are widespread - they are considered energy guardians of the home. The product is definitely suitable for lovers of the unusual and mysterious.

Often a trifle made of jet is given to children, explaining that the pebble will relieve anxiety, fears and unnecessary worries. Having a stone or jewelry made from it is recommended for everyone who is afraid of the evil eye and the negative influence of unkind people.

Attention! Jet is “dressed” in silver and tin if used as a talisman, and in copper for magical actions. In the East they set it in gold, but this is undesirable. The silver frame emphasizes the natural beauty of the stone.

Caring for soft-textured black stone jewelry involves storing it separately. This will protect you from scratches. If there is a sudden change in temperature, a crack will appear on the stone. Exposure to fire will result in fire. Caring for jet is simple: if it gets dirty, wash it with warm water, and if it loses its shine, polish it with a piece of woolen cloth.

Video: stone processing at home

Black jasper - amulet

The British paid too much attention to black jasper. For this reason the stone was often called English. Black jasper reached the apogee of its popularity in the 18th century. And already in the 19th century they knew about it everywhere. The excitement for jewelry made of magic stone provoked an increase in prices for products. Antique rings, earrings, and bracelets from the 18th century were not cheap at all, which also led to the spread of counterfeits. Craftsmen managed to fake stone using available materials.

How to spot a fake

Despite the fact that jet is not a precious stone, but an ornamental one, it is also counterfeited. Replicas can be made of ebonite, onyx, black glass, anthracite, Kennel coal, slate, lignite, black-dyed horn, swamp oak, bakelite, even epoxy resin. It is difficult for the average buyer to distinguish between natural and artificial fakes without modern technological techniques.

Sizes of black jasper

You can, of course, scratch the sample (the needle marks will remain on the jet) or set fire to a piece (the carbon smell will “give away” the original), but who wants to destroy the treasure. To determine the authenticity of a stone, it is edged along the unglazed porcelain surface. Natural jet will leave a brown mark. The main difference between imitations and the original is the coldness of the material, weight, and smell.

Varieties, colors

Jet does not vary much in color type and at first glance it is impossible to distinguish it by color. But in fact, minerals differ. The mineral occurs in nature in charcoal black, pearl black, blue black and dark brown.

You can find differences in the degree of gloss. The stone can be pearlescent with a mirror shine or matte with a muted glow.

Moreover, over time, the stone can change its appearance: become more sparkling or, conversely, lose its shine.

Price

A raw stone weighing 150 grams costs 100–200 rubles. Small fragments are sold in packages: 300 grams - 500–600 rubles. Price per gram in the online store is 25 kopecks. You can find it cheaper.

Bracelet with jet

Crafts made from black amber, of course, are much more expensive. Beads and rosaries can be bought for 1.5-2 thousand rubles. Bracelets are cheaper. This is with the continuous production method. Original works are more expensive, but they are also more attractive. The final price depends on the complexity of production, the subtlety of the design, and the amount of material used.

Compatibility with other stones

In jewelry and figurines, jet is combined with rock crystal and amber. Ancient Indian amulets have been preserved, where the stone is combined with turquoise. It is believed that sapphire, fionite, and zircon can enhance the energetic impact of jet. Often there are decorations and figurines where jet is adjacent to ivory.

Jet figurines

History shows that crafts made from jet were already popular 3,5 thousand years ago. These were not only decorations, but also household items. The peak of popularity of black amber was the 19th century. Then it spread throughout Eurasia. The best examples of jewelry are kept in museums around the world. Today jet is also in demand.