Nothing unites the natural and divine world like the mineral Staurolite. Its natural cross shape and earthy brown colour is said to help a person stay grounded in peace and wisdom.

If you're a firm believer of crystal healing, placing some Staurolite stones in your room or office, or simply carrying it around are sure ways to tap into its benefits.

Dig deeper into its history and properties.

The Physical Properties of Staurolite

Staurolite is a silicate mineral, a result of regional metamorphism in rocks. It occurs as translucent or opaque crystals in gneisses, slates, and mica schists, together with the minerals Garnet, Kyanite, and Tourmaline. Its colour ranges from black to dark brown, but some specimens may have a reddish brown shade.

Staurolite may have a Mohs hardness rating of 7 to 7.5, yet it is a brittle mineral. It is known for its interesting crystal shape: twinned and in a cross pattern (called cruciform). Some specimens display a perfect perpendicular shape. Staurolite can have a vitreous or resinous luster.

The History of Staurolite

The first official record of the mineral traces back in 1792. The name Staurolite comes from the Greek word stauros meaning ˜cross,' and litho which means ˜stone.' For years, Staurolite stones have been considered as a talisman for good luck and protection. It is commonly used in crafting amulets, religious jewelry pieces, and cameos.

The mineral can be found in different parts of the world. But the country with the most abundant Staurolite supplies is the US, where the mineral is found in Georgia and Virginia. Other countries with a steady supply of the mineral are Brazil, Austria, Canada, China, France, Germany, Russia, Italy, and Switzerland.

The Lore of Staurolite

Different countries believe different legends about Staurolite. In North America, the mineral is believed to be the tears the native Cherokee tribe shed after being driven out of their ancestral lands sometime in the 1800s. In Brittany, it was said that Staurolite came and fell from the sky.

The most popular lore surrounding the mineral comes from the US. Legend has it that Staurolite stones are the tears the fairies cried after hearing the news about Jesus Christ's death.

The fairies' tears crystallized to the shape of a cross. This is why Staurolite is also called the Fairy Stone or Fairy Cross.

Recognizing the power that the stone holds, three US presidents were rumored to have used Staurolite as good luck charms. Former Presidents Warren Warding and Woodrow Wilson carried them around, while Franklin Roosevelt wore the stone as a watch charm.

The Metaphysical Properties of Staurolite

Staurolite is believed to alleviate stress and prevent overwork. It is also recommended for people who are struggling with depression and addiction.

It is said that Staurolite can assist those who are trying to quit smoking by granting them wisdom to understand the reasons for their nicotine dependence. In effect, the person becomes more firm and resolute in breaking the habit.

For centuries, Staurolite has been a useful stone in boosting the powers of white magic rituals. It is believed that the stone can open the doors to ancient Middle Eastern wisdom.

As a stone of protection, Staurolite is worn or carried around to shield its wearer from harm, illnesses, and negative energies. It is also used to promote physical healing, specifically healing from fevers and blood cell disorders.

Sources:

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (n.d.). Staurolite. Britannica. Accessed at https://www.britannica.com/science/staurolite

King, H. (n.d.). Staurolite. Geology.com. Accessed at https://geology.com/minerals/staurolite.shtml

Staurolite. (n.d.). Mindat.org. Accessed at https://www.mindat.org/min-3753.html

Science & Origin of Staurolite. (n.d.). Crystal Council. Accessed at https://thecrystalcouncil.com/crystals/staurolite

Staurolite Meaning, Powers and History. (n.d.). Jewels for Me. Accessed at https://www.jewelsforme.com/gem_and_jewelry_library/staurolite