Having been discovered by Sid Pieters in Namibia, South West Africa in 1962, it wasn't long before Pietersite was registered in the mineral records of Great Britain which were published in 1964. This newly found gemstone was subsequently named Pietersite after the prominent mineral dealer who found it.
Pietersite was also found in Hunan Province in China however this mine is now closed because of flooding. Its market price subsequently rose as a result of the closure and also due to limited production from the mine in Namibia. An increase in demand for Pietersite and difficulties with its export have also contributed to this price rise.
Pietersite which is also sometimes known as the 'Tempest Stone', is opaque with colours ranging from red to gold to blue and black. It often exhibits a shimmering chatoyancy effect which is an optical reflectance seen in certain gemstones the most well known of which is Tigers Eye.
Pietersite carries the energy of a storm and is said to have the ability to purify one's body and energies. Crystal healers believe it to be tremendously energizing to the wearer, enhancing strength, courage, will power and awareness of higher planes. It is believed to hold the keys to the kingdom of heaven, dispelling illusion and assisting one to recognise the beauty of the soul and helping to support human courage, tenacity and dauntless effort to create and maintain beauty. It is invaluable when experiencing or releasing deep emotions as it calms emotional outbursts and upheavals, hence the name 'Tempest Stone'. It dissolves stubborn blockages and clears confusion and is also said to be excellent for improving the memory.
Pietersite is both rare and beautiful and along with its relative hardness on Mohs scale of mineral hardness (it grades 6.5 to 7.5) it is perfect for use in jewellery.
Further reading:
Pietersite
Our collection of Pietersite jewellery
| ← Phosphosiderite | Prehnite → |
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