Lava Stone
light, dark, aerated, waxed, rolled, jewelled

A very large number of semi-precious stone varieties are derived directly from lava. When we speak of lava stone, we mean Basalt, the most common of volcanic rocks, found all over the globe and the main constituent of the oceanic crust. Its symbols are thus intimately linked to telluric powers.

Its symbols are ancient

Its omnipresence no doubt explains its universal properties since ancient times. It is the power of nature, the fire of origins, the force of transformation and renewal.

It is the raw power that foments transformations. It symbolizes connection to the Earth, resurrection and life.

In Amerindian traditions, because of their porosity and ability to retain heat, Lava Stones were used in sweat lodges. They were believed to be alive, holding memory and spiritual strength.

Egyptians and peoples of Oceania alike used it in spiritual and religious rituals to protect against negative energies. In ancient Rome, it strengthened courage. In Asia, it repelled evil spirits.

In Hawaii, these volcanic stones are considered the children of the goddess Pele. A widespread legend has it that bringing lava stones back from the island brings bad luck. So widespread is this belief that the Hawaiian post office receives parcels by the hundreds containing stones returned by remorseful tourists.

Meaning and virtues in lithotherapy

In lithotherapy, it symbolizes transformation, the action of nature's raw force and rebirth.

Gushing forth from the heart of the earth with strength and power, Lava Stone carries the energy of purifying fire; it invites you to introspection (Earth), to move into action in a just, dynamic and effective way (Fire).

Transformation brings change. This is why Lava Stone is often described as a stone of luck, protection and renewal.

It teaches you that nothing is immutable, everything is formed and transformed. The essential happens in the present moment, a moment that you are invited to live in full awareness, without constantly looking back on your past.

With its warm energy and memory power, this rock can help you overcome difficulties, get through hardships and free yourself from any blockages by dissipating anger and boosting motivation.

It also contributes to the balance of your Earth and your inner Fire , improving your grounding, stimulating your creativity, your joie de vivre and your libido. It can calm angry reactions, excessive irritability and frustration.

Lava stone is known for its anchoring and stabilizing properties. Emotionally, it absorbs negative energies and facilitates peace of mind and the release of repressed emotions.

What are the physical properties of Lava Stone?

Traditionally, on a physical level, Lava Stone can help relieve muscular tension. This rock stores heat and is used for "hot stone massages", appreciated for their relaxing, de-stressing and revitalizing effects on the whole body. It is also traditionally used to promote fertility.

How to use this stone

• Tension? A painful area? A blockage? Place your Basalt (a large pebble is ideal) in hot water, near a fire or under the sun's rays, then place it directly on the area you wish to relax (be careful not to burn yourself by overheating the stone).
• Thanks to its porosity, it prolongs the soothing effects of aromatherapy. You can place a few drops of the essential oil of your choice directly on your lava stone jewelry to enjoy the benefits of the oil and the stone all day long.
• In your garden, it can be used in powder form as a natural fertilizer, thanks to its high trace element content and as a slug pellet. Or in pieces, in your potted plants, to promote good drainage.

Which crystals should it be combined with to amplify its effect in lithotherapy?

• Combined with Carnelian for greater vitality and a boost to creativity
• combined with tiger's eye to boost stature and its protective properties
• with Rose Quartz to balance emotions.

Mineralogy of Lava Stone

Lava rock is an extrusive igneous rock, composed of around 50% plagioclase, 25-40% pyroxene, 10-25% olivine and sometimes magnetite or quartz. Basalt has a microlithic texture. The different types of basalt are distinguished by their silica saturation levels.

It forms when magma cools in contact with water or air. Its fine and porous texture is due to gas bubbles trapped during solidification. Its colors are black, gray, dark red and brown.

It is found mainly in volcanic areas, both active and ancient: in Iceland, Italy and western Germany, for example. Basalt is also the most abundant rock on the planet in terms of volume.

Relatively resistant, lava stone has a hardness of between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale.

Its excellent thermal and acoustic properties also make it a valued resource in construction and insulation.

Did you know?

The surface of lunar seas is mostly made up of basalt. This would also be the case for the crusts of Mercury, Mars and Venus.