Also known as antimonite, stibnite is a soft grey mineral that crystallizes in stunning orthorhombic formations. It serves as the primary ore of the element antimony and is typically found in hydrothermal veins. Its history stretches all the way back to roughly 3000 B.C. and remains a popular mineral in modern times.
In the metaphysical community, stibnite is believed to be a powerful crystal for transformation. It can give you an entirely new outlook on life, and it can provide you with whatever you need to attract the things you most desire to you. It is also thought that working with this stone can help bring great wealth to your life, but only if you remain focused on your goal. It can strengthen your personal power and help you connect with higher frequencies that enable you to explore the spiritual realm.
Stibnite is an interesting stone that would make a good addition to any collection. It is important to note, though, that it is extremely toxic and should not be handled directly.
History of Stibnite
Pastes made from the powder of stibnite were used as eye makeup in the Middle East beginning around 3000 B.C. When used to darken the eyelashes and brows or to line the eyes, it is known as kohl. It was also used by the ancient Egyptians as both a cosmetic and a type of medication. The antimony that comes from stibnite has also long been used in pyrotechnic displays, especially in glitter compositions and fountain mixes. Today, it is also one of the components found in safety matches.
Originally, this mineral was known stibi and stimmi by the ancient Greeks. It was called spiesglass by Basil Valentine in 1430 but was given the name by which it is known today in 1832 by François Sulpice Beudant. It is also sometimes known as antimonite, antimony glance, and stibine.
Stibnite's Physical Properties
Stibnite is a fairly common mineral in terms of rarity. It forms in many parts of the world, but some of the largest and most spectacular specimens came from the now-exhausted Ichinokawa mine in Japan. Today, it is mined in the United States, Peru, Bolivia, Italy, and China. At Crystal Allies, our stibnite comes from Hunan, Chenzhou in China.
This mineral ranges in color from light greyish-silver to a darker metallic grey that is nearly black. It forms some of the most remarkable crystals in existence in terms of size, luster, and sharpness. Sometimes, it forms large groups of massive metallic crystals that are incredibly shiny and have a near-perfect appearance. The long, slender crystals are prismatic and are often situated at different angles in groupings. Single stibnite crystals can look like swords.
Stibnite has a metallic luster, and the crystals are opaque. With a hardness rating of 2, it is a soft stone that is easy to damage. As previously mentioned, it is highly toxic due to the presence of antimony.
Metaphysical Properties of Stibnite
Because of its toxicity, many people choose not to work with stibnite. If you do choose to use this mineral in your crystal healing practices, you can still experience its benefits when it is kept inside a sturdy bag. You do not need to touch it directly in order to feel its vibrations.
Stibnite is filled with transformative energy. It is especially useful in our modern world where things always seem to be changing. If you feel like you are constantly caught up jumping from one thing to the next with little time for yourself, working with stibnite can help take away your feelings of overwhelm. It will also allow you to accept and deal with the changes that you face in your everyday life. It brings stability, too, which is especially useful during times of major change.
One unique aspect of this crystal is that it grounds you physically but not mentally or spiritually. As such, it can prevent the physical problems that are often felt following spiritual journeys. It can help you reach higher planes spiritually while keeping your physical body securely grounded to the earth.
Stibnite's Healing Properties
As a tool for physical healing, stibnite is thought to reduce stiffness in the muscles and treat disorders involving the upper digestive system. It can also be used to treat fevers and infections. Because of its toxic nature, it should not be used to make elixirs. It can also help maintain your physical health when you are going through a time of major change and stress.
Emotionally, stibnite can grant you courage. If you are someone who is easily taken advantage of, this crystal will help you find the strength to stand up for yourself and put a stop to people walking all over you. Because it is a powerful stone of transformation, it can provide you with a new outlook on life and help you overcome feelings of sadness or depression. It can also give you the guidance you need as you work toward building a life that you can enjoy.
Working with Stibnite
The best way to use stibnite is during meditation. Meditating with this stone is an excellent way to gain a greater level of self-awareness as well as spiritual awareness. If you would like to use this stone during your meditation practice, you can simply place it in your space. If you would prefer to hold it, place it in a tightly sealed cloth bag. In doing so, you will still be able to experience the benefits of the stone without exposing your skin to its toxic elements.
Stibnite can also be kept in your environment. If you are working your way up the corporate ladder, consider keeping a piece at work to guide you through the transition. It is also a wonderful stone to keep near you when you are going through major life changes, including marriage, divorce, relocation, and career changes.
For high-quality stibnite from Hunan, Chenzhou, China, trust Crystal Allies. Please feel free to browse our selection today to find the piece that is right for you.
NOTE: All content on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.