Stories behind the Stones
Throughout time people have believed in the power of the stone. Gemstone history is extraordinary filled with symbolism, myths, and meaning. Here are the stories of some of our favorite Spear stones.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli has a long history of protective powers against evil spirits. It is found in the beautiful inlay walls of the Taj Mahal. It was also considered a precious pigment for Japanese paintings.
From its original mines in Afghanistan, Lapis Lazuli is valued in various cultures. Some of the oldest mines date before B.C. and are still in operation.
Its deep, royal blue hue is dotted with gold flecks that look like a starry sky at twilight. This precious gemstone represents wisdom and peace.
Tiger's Eye
Tiger's eye is a gemstone with a silky luster. It ranges in color from rich amber, honey-golden yellow, to dark caramel.
The wavy shimmer on the surface is the reflection of light from bands of parallel fibers. This “cat’s eye” effect is referred to as "chatoyancy", coming from the beautiful French word, chatoyer.
The gorgeous gold-brown color makes a wonderful combination with Tahitian black pearls and the boldness of yellow gold.
Lavender Amethyst
The name is based on a Greek myth that speaks of a nymph named Amethyst who was inadvertently turned into white stone; in remorse, the Greek god Bacchus poured wine over her turning her into a beautiful purple color.
Amethyst is an enchanting purple quartz varying from violet to lilac.
There are two types of amethyst used in Hirotaka. Brilliant violet-colored stones for the Bird of Paradise collection, and an almost transparent lavender color for the octagonal Spear stone.
Chrysoprase
Chrysoprase has a distinctive apple-green color with a soft glow that comes from within. It is rarest and most valuable in a chalcedony quartz group.
This stone is known to draw out one's talents and bring fulfillment. In ancient Rome, it was said that it was responsible for Alexander the Great's victories.
At Hirotaka, we carefully select the ones with high saturation and excellent beauty grade.
Malachite
In ancient Egypt powdered malachite was mixed with oils and fats to make eyeliner. It is said that both women and men adorned their eyes to not only enhance their beauty, but for important medicinal, magical and religious qualities.
In the Hermitage Palace in Russia there is an incredible amount of malachite used and it is believed to be impossible to recreate.
Hirotaka's Malachite is hand-carved one by one from large host rocks that are otherworldly with bright green waves and a psychedelic feel.
