„The whole majesty of nature is concentrated in the smallest of spaces in the gemstones and a single one is enough to recognize the masterpiece of creation in it.” (Pliny)
Precious stones in ancient times
The oldest crystals are around 3.1 million years old. Archaeological finds prove that the use of gemstones goes back to the beginnings of mankind. Initially, minerals that were easy to find and work with were used. For example an amber or a lapis lazuli. But it was only in antiquity that gemstones reached their peak. Here the stones were combined with silver and gold. The Greeks and Romans were known as great admirers and experts. In ancient Greece, gemstones were valued for their outward appearance and rarity. The color and the origin played an important role. Their refraction and their special play of colors contributed to the assumption of divine powers. This allowed people to make amulets from them, which in turn are said to have had magical abilities and were used to heal the body.
Precious stones in modern times
Interest in gemstones increased in the 16th century due to the development of trade.
The influence of superstition and the connection to astrological signs also underpinned the popularity of the stones, so that the gemstones in modern times reached their peak at the end of the 18th century. At the same time, numerous deposits were found at this time, which made it possible to mine the stones on a massive scale. The stones symbolized purity, beauty, preciousness and holiness and were therefore mainly used on the robes of priests and kings.
Importance of gemstones
The colorful mineral gemstones are still held in high esteem by people today.
Astrologers assign gemstones to each zodiac sign, each month has its month stone.
The shamans use the forces and energies of the gemstones to open the chakras in the body and to cleanse the soul. They are supposed to protect one joy, happiness and above all one from evil. In folk medicine, they are used for illness or physical complaints. The use of the stones as gemstone water is particularly popular these days.