Actinolite belongs to the rock-forming minerals of the amphibole group (the crystal structure is built from twin chains), and it belongs to the class of silicates. The name of the stone is derived from the Greek words, which are translated as “radiant stone”. Of course, the mineral received such a name for a reason, you can see a large number of needle crystals and rays in it. Actinolite was popular with many peoples in antiquity, but its official registration occurred only in 1794.
Natural deposits
The area of natural occurrence of this mineral is quite wide. It is found on the territory of Austria, Switzerland, some US states (California, Alaska, Virginia and others). It can also be found in Canada, Italy, Tanzania, Brazil, on the island of Madagascar, in Ukraine. In Russia, actinolite is mined in the South Urals, in Karelia and Primorye.
Often this mineral is found along with deposits of garnet, quartz, talc.
Physical and chemical properties
The color of the stone varies from gray-green to shades of dark green. These paints actinolite gives the presence of iron in it. The mineral has a glassy or silky shine and translucency. The hardness of the stone on the Mohs scale is 5.5-6, which is the average. Actinolite is also characterized by great brittleness, a stepped fracture, it has perfect cleavage and a monoclinic syngony.
Its chemical composition is quite variable. The stone is mainly composed of iron and silicon, but may contain impurities of such elements as magnesium, aluminum, potassium, manganese. Actinolite is resistant to acids.
Popular species
There are several of the most famous varieties of this stone.
- Nephritis. Mineral, has a fibrous structure. The color of this stone has a wide color range: it can be whitish, emerald, dark brown. Jade is a very popular cut stone. In China, it is revered as national since ancient times.
- Amphibole asbestos or Amant. It has straight needle-like fibers and is a complex hydrosilicate. It is a carcinogen, inhalation of its particles is harmful to human health. Therefore, at present, such a stone is rarely used in the construction industry.
- Smaragdite. This mineral looks very similar to emerald, is painted in a bright green color. The name comes from the old Russian word "smaragd", which meant "emerald stone". This mineral is very rare, and therefore has a high jewelry value.
Spheres of use
Actinolite is an easy-to-process stone, for this reason it is widely used in the jewelry industry. Samples with a transparent structure are used to decorate rings, brooches, rings, pendants, make spectacular souvenir balls, opaque go to the production of beads, necklaces, bracelets. Small beads are suitable for embroidery. Unusually shaped stones are highly valued by collectors of minerals.
In addition, elastic thin fiber actinolite is used as a rubber filler for automobile tires.
Healing and magical qualities
This mineral is widely used to treat many diseases of the skin: depriving, fungus, eczema. To do this, bracelets with actinolite in a silver frame are worn on both hands to improve well-being.If there are problems with the skin of the head and the condition of the hair, then it is recommended to wear earrings with this healing stone. This mineral ensures the smooth functioning of the heart and blood vessels, supports the health of the joints, spine and respiratory organs. Stones that have a rich green color, treat minor mental disorders and depression.
In various countries, various magical properties are attributed to actinolite. In Africa, with the help of this stone find the guilty person. It is believed that in the hands of the criminal the mineral loses its brilliance. In China, there is a belief that it is impossible to bring the found actinolite into the house so that the finder is not transferred to the fate of the person who lost it. In the Urals, locals have always believed that this stone attracts wealth and good fortune to the house, and is also able to fulfill innermost desires.
Actinolite has long been considered one of the favorite stones of magicians, shamans, sorcerers. You can only get it yourself, you can not sell and give, so as not to give your luck to others.
Currently, this mineral has established itself as a powerful talisman that can change the life of its owner for the better. It helps a person to gain decency, self-confidence, wisdom, perseverance and strength of mind.
Who is suitable?
Actinolite is also amazing because it fits all signs of the zodiac without exception. But his main favorites are Sagittarius and Aquarius. The stone generously gives these signs success and well-being in all undertakings. But we must remember that buying a mineral is better in a frame of silver, and be sure to do it yourself.
It should also be noted that actinolite is combined only with chrysoprase, diamonds and rubies.
How to check originality?
Currently, actinolite can be obtained artificially. In addition, there are very similar minerals. It is very difficult to distinguish a fake by eye, so remember a few tricks on how to identify the authenticity of this stone:
- if you hold actinolite over the flame of a candle, it will not melt;
- An original placed in acid will never change its color and structure.
Care instructions
Remember that this mineral is very fragile, protect it from impacts and squeezing. Transparent stones should be worn with particular care. It is recommended to store actinolite separately from other stones, in a pouch of soft fabric. This mineral is not too important ambient temperature and sunlight. It tolerates high temperatures and heat well.
Actinolite is an inexpensive and attractive stone that positively affects the physical and spiritual state of a person. If you need a powerful talisman, then stop your choice on this unique mineral.
You can look at quartz with actinolite inclusions further.
