Stones of the Millennium
Archaeologists have discovered the prehistoric use of crystals by excavations in various graves and barrows in the Middle East, Europe, Russia and Africa. What they found are beads, jewelry and carvings made of turquoise, garnet, crystal and many other stones. Some of the discovered stones were in the shape of various animals, and were probably symbols of a particular totem or sacred protective spirit. It is speculated that their presence in the graves was to assist the departed soul in the next life.
One of the most fascinating discoveries showing prehistoric use of crystals is the solar temple, Newgrange. This ancient Passage Grave is regarded by some as one of the greatest wonders of the ancient world. Located in the Boyne Valley of Ireland, this burial mound is older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids. The solar temple was built in such a way that the sunlight would stream through the 70-foot-long entrance tunnel on the Winter Solstice. Remarkably, the temple roof was originally covered with white quartz, to symbolize the White Goddess.
Crystal Skulls
Another amazing archaeological discovery was that of the Crystal Skulls. Estimates put the age of the skulls at least 20,000 years old. Perhaps the best known of the crystal skulls is the Mitchell-Hedges skull. Some believe that the skull was discovered by Anna Mitchell-Hedges (daughter of archaeologist F.A. Hedges), in Guatemala while others speculate that she bought the skull in London. Those who have spent time with the skull have reported a variety of mystical experiences.
The Crystal Cultures
In the ancient Egyptian civilization, crystals were widely used for a myriad of purposes. A hieroglyphic papyrus, circa 2000 B.C., documents a medical cure using a crystal. Several others, circa 1500 B.C., have additional prescriptions.
Many other stones were also found in Egyptian tombs. Turquoise, carnelian, and tigers eye are among the few. These stones were shaped into shields, amulets, and hearts.
The pharaohs often had their headdresses lined with malachite (a green mineral carbonate of copper) to help them rule wisely.
Lapis was also considered to be a royal stone. The Egyptians pulverized lapis and made it into a poultice, which was then rubbed into the crown of the head to draw out spiritual impurities.
The natives of North, Central, and South America used crystals widely for spiritual, ceremonial, and healing purposes.
These also served practical purposes as well. For example, the ancient Mexicans made mirrors out of pyrite. The Mayan Indians used obsidian for ceremonial knives and other tribes believed that it served to sharpen both outer and inner vision. Mayans also used quartz crystals for both the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Some Mexican Indian tribes believed that the souls of those who led good lives would go into crystals.
In China and Japan, quartz has long been revered, especially in carved form. Quartz crystal balls were represented as the heart or essence of the dragon. Dragons were thought to have great power. A deeper meaning for dragon is that of a very wise and evolved individual. Jade is also closely associated with China. It was considered the concentrated essence of love. A jade butterfly was seen as a symbol of successful love.
Ancient Indian astrological documents, written as early as 400 B.C., contain detailed observations about the power of various stones to counteract the negative effects of planetary positions. Stones in India were regarded as having great spiritual and emotional powers. The Moonstone, for instance, was a sacred stone believed to arouse love. Onyx, in contrast, was believed to help release the ties of old love. The ruby (king of precious stones) was also a highly valued gemstone.
The Vogel® Crystals
Christopher Coletta, president of Stones Of The Millennium, Inc., works with two of the top cutters and lapidary experts in the world, who have been taught the advanced theories of Dr. Marcel Vogel. They hand craft each crystal individually with sacred intention. They also operated Dr. Vogels special cutting operation for 6 years prior to his passing.
Whether hand or machine cut, they have synthesized theory and lapidary/cutting work over the years to produce the most flawlessly cut crystals known today, unrivaled in shape, size and symmetrical excellence.
There has been much concern about the quality of the many so-called Vogel cut healing crystals on the market today. However, there are just a handful of people who cut crystals based on the advanced theories of Dr. Marcel Vogel. Ron Carson Rumi Da of Lifestream Associates and those he has given express written consent, hold the exclusive legal rights to the registered names Vogel® and Vogel-cut®, having bought the rights to use those names from Psychic Research, Inc. and Mary Vogel, upon Dr. Vogels passing.
Vision Quest is proud to present a Special Event to introduce you to these amazing crystals. Christopher Coletta will conduct a lecture and workshop called, Working With Vogel® Quartz Crystals - Basic Introduction on Saturday, July 19th at 11 am to 1 pm. Preregistration price is $55 ($63 at the door). For more information go to: www.stonesofthemillennium.com.
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