Acanthite forms iron-black orthorhombic crystals (rhombic, prismatic, and trimetric). Argentite, from the Latin, argentum, "silver," and Acanthite are terms often used interchangeably. Its softness precludes its used as a gemstone, but it can still be included in spells. The name comes from the Greek, akanta, meaning "arrow," probably due to the sharpness of its crystals.
The Anglo-Saxons revered it as a protective stone. Many warriors carried in a small, carved bottle to dispel evil and protect them from danger. It was also thought to bring wisdom and foresight. Acanthite is said to bring strength in times of need. It will also assist in the removal of obstacles and provide a feeling of well-being. It is a stone of alteration and beneficial change. Shy and self-conscious people can use this stone to come out of their shell.
It can be used to bring strength in times of need, to assist on in the removal of obstacles (via dissolution on the ethereal plane), and to induce a state of well-being in the physical, mental, and emotional bodies.
| Crystal Structure: |
Orthorhombic |
| Crystal Forms: |
Orthorhombic |
| Color(s): |
Iron Black |
| Astrological Correspondence: |
Scorpio |
| Numerical Vibration: |
9 |
| Holistic Healing Properties: |
It can be used as a mirror to internal dis-ease, stimulating the sight of the self from outside of the body. This sight is without judgmental attitudes and can provide for a stepping-stone for the furtherance of hollistic well-ness. It provides one with patience and perseverance in the healing of the body and allows one to understand the underlying reasons for the problem and the amelioration process. It assists in increasing perception and helps to regulate the emotional and intuitive energies. |
| Physical Healing Properties: |
Acanthite has been used in the treatment of bacterial and viral infections and to ameliorate the symptoms of colds and flus. It has also been used to eliminate toxins at the cellular level. It can be used to increase the assimilation of Vitamins A and E, and to ameliorate disorders associated with deficiency in the immune system. |
| Preparation: |
This mineral's softness precludes its use in the normal method of preparation of an elixir. |
| Bibliography: |
Love is in the Earth by Melody Copyright ©:1995 by Earth-Love Publishing House. Pp. 79 |
