Calcite

Calcite is calcium carbonate and gets its name from "chalix" the Greek word for lime.  It is one of the most common minerals on Earth, comprising about 4% by weight of the Earth’s crust and is formed in many different geological environments.  There are more than 300 crystal forms identified in calcite and these forms can combine to produce a thousand different crystal variations!  Calcite is the primary mineral component in cave formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and many other cave formations are made of calcite as well.  Almost all of the "alabaster" artifacts of ancient Egypt are actually made of Calcite. It was even used as an inlay on the throne in the tomb of King Tutankhamen.

A popular variety of calcite is the rhombohedron. The best way to visualize it is to think of a partially squashed box. In other words a box-shape that has been squashed, thus deforming it in one direction only.  Double refraction occurs when a ray of light enters the crystal and due to calcite’s unique optical properties, the ray is split into fast and slow beams. As these two beams exit the crystal, they are bent into two different angles (known as angles of refraction) because the angle is affected by the speed of the beams. A person viewing into the crystal will see two images of everything.

Calcite cleanses negative, and reduces fear and stress.  It is one of the best stones to use while practicing distance healing, as it amplifies the energy being sent.  For this reason, it is also useful in astral travel and when channeling.  Calcite can assist in dissolving old rigid belief systems.

Physically, calcite strengthens bones, joints, teeth, eyes, by balancing calcium levels.  It reminds a diseased body of perfection.  Calcite is useful to alleviate back pain.  Calcite positively effects the kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. 

Different colors of calcite are associated with different chakras.

Blue Calcite- is the perfect stone for students.  It heightens mental discernment, memory, learning abilities, motivation, and calms communication.  Blue calcite is associated with the throat chakra.

Green Calcite- can be used to attract abundance.  Green calcite is associated with the heart chakra.

Orange Calcite- is mostly used for its strong energizing and cleansing properties.  It heals the reproductive system, and helps with intestinal and gallbladder problems.

Clear Calcite- is often used in ritual to double the power of intent.  Optical calcite  helps you to see double meanings hidden in communication.