Wearing Australia: Australian Crystals and Gemstones To Add To Your Collection
Australia is an enormous country and it is home to many magnificent natural wonders, from the wildlife, to the scenery, to its unique geology and gemstones. Common associations with Australian nature may include the breath-taking Great Barrier Reef, white sand beaches in Western Australia or the sacred Uluru, just to name a few. There is so much nature to see and appreciate, much of which is totally unique to this country and is what makes it a place of interest to both locals and visitors from all over the world.
Why Buy Gemstones Found in Australia?
Australia is home to a number of stunning gemstones, some of which are entirely unique to the country. If you are on a visit to Australia, choosing to invest in a special gemstone found here is a great opportunity to buy a souvenir as a reminder of the adventures you have experienced in this fascinating country. Likewise, living here is the perfect reason to wear a gemstone in your jewellery that has been sourced locally. Whether you are buying for yourself or as a gift for somebody else, it is always good to have some background knowledge on the stone you are investing in.
The gemstones found in this large and geographically diverse country are completely varied in their appearance and colours and all are completely unique. Some Australian gemstones are well known and renowned all over the world, whereas others tend to only be recognised by gemstone fanatics. If you are looking to add some Australian gemstones to your jewellery collection, here are some you should definitely consider:
Australia’s National Favourite: Opals
Firstly, Precious Opal is often regarded Australia’s ‘national gemstone’, because the vast majority of it (around 95%) is found in Australia. Australia is known for producing some of the finest opals in the world, with beautiful colours and perfect quality. Opal is one of the most enchanting, beautiful stones. With a base colour of milky white, Precious Opal displays a full spectrum of bright colours through its iridescent effect, which change as you look at the gemstone from different angles. There are other popular kinds of Opals too, such as black and boulder Opals. There are many places across Australia that Precious Opals can be found, with Coober Pedy being one of the most famous regions for Opal mining. When buying Opals, there are some important things to consider regarding their maintenance.
Firstly, sudden temperature changes, or exposure to intense heat can affect the colour of Opals. Likewise, it is important to neither get Opals too wet, nor allow them to dry out too much. Soaking them is a no, whether this is in water, oils or chemicals. However, if your Opals are being stored for a long time, you should store them in a jewellery pouch with a damp cloth. This way, your opals will keep their gorgeous colour and the stunning iridescent effect that they are so well-loved for. Opals are considered to be stones of spiritual transformation and growth. They are believed to facilitate spiritual awakening, enhance intuition, and foster a deeper connection with the divine. They are certainly magical gemstones, which feel extremely special to own.
Monochrome Delights: Dendritic Opal & Black Tourmaline
Dendritic Opal is another favourite pick, a lot of which is found in Australia. This stunning stone consists of a white base of common opal, with Dendritic inclusions, which form gorgeous natural patterns. This gemstone is great for those who favour monochromatic styles: with base colours of white, black and grey, this gemstone can go with any outfit and pair perfectly. There is something enchanting about Dendritic Opal; its appearance is reminiscent of a snowy white forest. Every single piece of Dendritic Opal will be slightly different, so each piece of jewellery with this gemstone, whether it be a ring, necklace or earrings, will be entirely unique. Like other forms of Opal, Dendritic Opal is associated with transformation and growth. It is believed to support personal development, spiritual evolution, and the process of shedding old patterns or beliefs in favour of new ones that align with one's highest good.
Another monochromatic Australian gemstone which is much loved is Black Tourmaline. Black Tourmaline can be found in a few locations across the world, but this particular Australian variety of Tourmaline is named ‘Warrierite’, after Warriedar Station, a now abandoned area in Western Australia. This black gemstone is prized for its stunning look, which can be paired with any other jewellery or outfit, whether it be coloured or not. Additionally, black gemstones, Black Tourmaline included, are loved for their protective qualities. Black Tourmaline is associated with the root chakra, which is responsible for feelings of safety, security, and stability. By grounding energy and anchoring it to the Earth, Black Tourmaline helps create a sense of stability and protection. Some people believe that Black Tourmaline has the ability to absorb and neutralize negative energies, deflecting negative influences and promoting a sense of safety and well-being. Wearing Black Tourmaline as jewellery is thought to provide a protective barrier around the wearer.
Bright, Warm Tones: Mookaite & Rhodonite
There are multiple colourful Australian gemstones that are loved for their beautiful unique and bright colours. Mookaite is a stunning gemstone that has warm beautiful colours which make the stone distinguishable from all other gemstones. It is a type of jasper that is found primarily in Western Australia, near the Mooka Creek from which it derives its name. It is known for its vibrant array of colours, including shades of red, yellow, brown, and cream, often occurring in swirling patterns or bands. A piece of Mookaite is like a screenshot of the natural colours found in this remote Western Australian region, really embodying the warm oranges and reds found in the ground here. This is therefore a great reminder of rural Australia, making Mookaite jewellery a great souvenir or gift for oneself or a loved one. Mookaite is thought to promote adaptability and flexibility in times of change or transition. It encourages the wearer to embrace new opportunities and go with the flow of life. Some people use it as a tool for decision making and problem-solving. It is said to help clarify thoughts, increase intuition, and encourage a sense of inner knowing.
A striking combination of vibrant pink and black is seen in the beautiful Rhodonite, which can be found in New South Wales, Australia. It has a vibrant pink background, with black veins or inclusions of manganese oxide minerals, which is an eye-catching colour contrast. Rhodonite is perfect for bigger pieces, so that the patterns and colours within the natural gemstone are fully displayed and can be appreciated. Adding a Rhodonite piece to your collection will provide a beautiful pop of colour, which can spice up a monochromatic outfit. Rhodonite is believed to have a calming and soothing energy that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and tension. It is said to promote a sense of peace and relaxation, making it a valuable tool for stress relief and emotional balance. It is also believed to enhance creativity and self-expression. It is said to stimulate the imagination, boost confidence, and encourage the pursuit of one's passions and interests.
Colours of the Earth: Blues and Greens - Chrysoprase, Prehnite & Serpentine Stichtite
If you are looking for a gemstone with tones of blues and greens, there are a number of stunning Australian gemstones that you should consider for your collection. Ammaroo Turquoise is a beautiful, native Australian variety of Turquoise in a vibrant, pale blue colour which is reminiscent of the pale blue water in a tropical location. This extremely rare turquoise is only discovered at the Tosca Mine in the Northern Territory and is named after the Barkly Region's Ammaroo Station. Ammaroo Turquoise is sometimes seen as a consistent colour, but can also have natural patterns within the stone which can give it a unique, one of a kind appearance. The vivid tones of Ammaroo Turquoise make it a perfect gemstone to add to your summer jewellery collection.
Chrysoprase is a bold and vivid green gemstone, often referred to as ‘Australian Jade’, which is what its appearance can be likened to, though not its geology. Chrysoprase has a rich history and was used extensively in Ancient Rome and Ancient Greece for jewellery and carvings. In jewellery, Chrysoprase is often seen in its pure pale milky green tones, as well as pieces which have brown colourings in it, which compliments the green beautifully. Chrysoprase is sourced from a few different locations in the world but is most predominantly found in Queensland, Australia. Chrysoprase is said to uplift the spirits and bring a sense of joy and positivity into one's life. It encourages optimism, gratitude, and a positive outlook on life, even during challenging times. Chrysoprase helps to dispel negative thoughts and emotions, replacing them with feelings of hope and happiness.
Prehnite is another stunning green gemstone, which can be found in Australia as well as other locations globally. Prehnite is more of a sage green colour than the vivid Chrysoprase, so it has a dreamy, calming quality about it. This colour pairs amazingly with neutrals, whether they are dark or light. Alternatively, pair with other pale pastels, for a beautiful springtime look. Prehnite is said to encourage self-exploration and personal growth. It helps individuals connect with their inner wisdom and higher selves, facilitating inner growth, transformation, and self-discovery. Prehnite encourages individuals to embrace their true selves and live authentically.
Last but not least, a beautiful stone that should absolutely be added to your list of Australian gemstones is Serpentine Stichtite, which has a beautiful rare combination of the moss green from Serpentine and a dreamy bright purple from Stichtite. Native to Tasmania, this gemstone is something that you will not see much of, so it is a great one to add to your collection when you do get the opportunity to get hold of it. This is a mind-blowingly beautiful yet unexpected colour combination, with these two quite different colours fitting together amazingly. This is certainly one to add to your collection if you want something one-of-a-kind. Like some of the other Australian stones, you will never find two identical looking Serpentine Stichtite pieces. While some pieces of Serpentine Stichtite jewelry are dominated by the green tones, others are predominantly purple, giving each piece totally its own look. Serpentine Stichtite is known to block any sentiments of negativity which get in your way of love and happiness.
Having a section of your gemstone collection dedicated to Australian stones, or even just having one Australian piece in your collection is a great way to appreciate and embrace the natural beauty that Australia has to offer. Not only this, but each of these stunning stones is unique and gorgeous in its own individual way and are not gemstones that you tend to see as often.
