Stones & Stories
![futahibox[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/futahibox11.jpg "futahibox[1]")
Meet Futahi!
He lives at The Beading Factory bringing all who contact him luck and sometimes the path to escape!
Folklore
Below are images and a brief description of some of the stones and minerals used in jewelry from The Beading Factory. In addition to the descriptions I’ve included a bit of folklore about the stones. Some folks find this entertaining and even helpful. Others think it’s just a bunch of hogwash…do with it what you wish. Just remember – none of the statements below have been tested by the FDA and should not be construed as medical advice. 
Click here to view larger images of the stones.
Af![africanturquoise[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/africanturquoise1-150x150.jpg "africanturquoise[1]")
rican Turquoise
is a bit greener than American turquoise with lots of black striations throughout. It is said that turquoise can help with stress reduction, physical balance – especially in the lungs and respiratory system. It is also supposed to attract abundance and prosperity.
Amethyst![amethyst[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/amethyst1-150x150.jpg "amethyst[1]")
literally means “without alcohol”. Ancient Egyptians were known to drink out of amethyst cups to prevent hangovers. Amethyst is supposed to enhance spiritual connections, relaxation and dream states. Amethyst is a transparent purple colored stone. Note: in bead form there are many inclusions. It will not look like cut amethyst stones you see at the local jewelers.
Aventu![aventurine[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/aventurine1-150x150.jpg "aventurine[1]")
rine
is a green semi-opaque stone with a slight internal shimmer. It is supposed to be a healing stone in times of transition and readjustment and increase opportunities in speculative ventures. It has been called The Money Stone.
Bl![blackonyx[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/blackonyx1-150x150.jpg "blackonyx[1]")
ack Onyx
is a smooth, shiny, solid black stone. It is one of the most versatile and popular stones for beaded jewelry. It is supposed to prevent negativity and help ‘ground’ you. It is also thought to absorb and hold physical strength.
Fancy Jasper
![fancyjasper[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/fancyjasper1-150x150.jpg "fancyjasper[1]")
is mostly earthy green tones, semi-opaque stone with some pink and reddish tones swirled throughout. Jaspers are said to stabilize emotions and reduce fears and insecurities.
Hem![hematitedyo[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/hematitedyo1-150x150.jpg "hematitedyo[1]")
atite
is a metallic looking gray shiny stone. Some say it looks a lot like gunmetal. I happen think it’s a bit more elegant than that. Hematite is said to help with circulation problems and work as a shield of armor. Be careful to keep your hematite in a dry place. It is iron ore and will pit and rust if not cared for properly. Beware of a thing called hematine. Hematine is a manufactured material that, while it may look pretty like hematite, is not the real thing.
Jad![jade[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/jade1-150x150.jpg "jade[1]")
e
is a beautiful olive green color with a lovely almost fluid consistency. Jade brings courage, clarity and tranquility and is supposed to help with digestive disorders. The Beading Factory never uses the cheaper Jadeite, only authentic Nephrite jade.
Lapi![lapis[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/lapis1-150x150.jpg "lapis[1]")
s
is a gorgeous royal blue color with striations of white (calcite) and gold (pyrite) throughout. I try to always pick the stones with the most pyrite in them as they really showcase the beauty of Lapis. Legend has it that wearing lapis bestows great power to the sincere. It is said to heighten insight and good judgment and bring you wisdom and clarity of the mind.
Malachite
![malachite[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/malachite1-150x150.jpg "malachite[1]")
is a light and dark green banded stone that has a somewhat soft consistency. You will find it carved into lots of interesting shapes in rock and mineral shops. Malachite is supposed to bring success and good fortune in business matters. It has also been said to aid in weight reduction. But please, do not eat the malachite.
Rose Q![rosequartz[1]](http://www.webead4u.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/rosequartz1-150x150.jpg "rosequartz[1]")
uartz
is the stone of the heart. It is said to promote self love and heal an aching heart. It promotes affection, compassion and kindness. Rose quartz is a beautiful light pink transparent color. In beads you will find it is heavily included, adding to the visual interest of the stone. Also note: rose quartz beads are frequently ‘heat stabilized’ or enhanced. This means that if you leave your rose quartz out in the sun for too long you may notice a bit of fading. It is a stone for your heart, so be sure to give it a little extra TLC in return.
Because a little sparkle is always a good thing!!!