Jet Jewelry

Jet was important to many ancient civilizations, including the Chinese, Europeans, Greeks and Native American Zuni Indians. It was considered protective against illness, the evil-eye and personal attacks. It was believed that wearing Jet Jewelry would absorb any illness or negative energies, thereby protecting its wearer.

In the 16th Century, Jet was thought of as black Amber and commonly used in Rosary Beads.

In Ancient Greece, Pliny first mentions Jet as Gaget, after the River Gages where it was first mined. Followers of Cybele, the Goddess of Growth and Plants, wore Jet to incur the Goddess' favor.

Medieval Healers believed burning Jet would cure fevers and all manners of illness.

During Queen Victoria's reign, Jet gained popularity as it was a common gemstone worn by the Queen with her black mourning outfits. From thereon, Jet gained popularity as appropriate jewelry for funerals.

The Pueblo Indians were known for burying Jet with their dead. A famous, exceptionally beautiful and well-made frog carved from Jet and inlaid with Turquoise eyes, was discovered in the Pueblo Bonito in 1896 by Mr. Pepper. It is believed these Indians thought Jet would protect them in the after-life.

However, several cultures believe that Jet worn next to the skin, will absorb some of the person's soul and therefore, personal Jet must be carefully guarded to avoid giving someone else their power.

In Ireland, Jet knives were found at Stone Henge, thought used in ritual sacrifices. Jet was also burned by the wives of sailors to protect them at sea.

Jet is an important gemstone for the 1st Chakra, thought to provide protection from illness and violence and to strengthen psychic awareness.

Wiccan High Priestesses (White Witches) are said to wear necklaces of alternating Amber and Jet, hence the name Witches Amber.

Sometimes considered gemstones of Aquarius and/or Capricorn.

Healing Properties: Thought to absorb negative energies that create illness. Mentioned frequently regarding toothaches. Thought beneficial to victims of domestic abuse.

Scientific Properties: Composed of carbonized wood (lignite coal). Identified by its light weight and velvety luster.

Found in Coal deposits. Frequently mined in Europe and the U.S. 2.0-4.0 on the Moh's Hardness Scale.

Buyer Beware! Jet is often imitated by glass, rubber, obsidian and black onyx. True Jet is soft and very lightweight.

Disclaimer: Newage Enterprises makes no claims as to the healing properties of this gemstone. We provide information on legends surrounding this stone's mystical and healing properties which allow the informed user to make their own decision.

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