Collection: Hypersthene

Hypersthene is an inosilicate (mineral of the silicate family) that is found in rocks of the orthopyroxene group (common components of igneous rocks). Hypersthene lies between enstatite and ferrosilite. It should be noted that enstatite does not contain iron and ferrosilite does not contain magnesium. In contrast, hypersthene is composed of iron and magnesium.

It is transparent to semi-opaque, its color can range from brown, gray, green-black to black. There are varieties of such blackness that it is compared to tar. Furthermore, it happens that this stone reflects an asterism (optical phenomenon in the shape of a star). The lines forming these stars can be four, six or more rarely twelve. Asterism is caused by the interference of light with inclusions.

Furthermore, this stone, held in the hand, reveals splendid iridescent silver-gray reflections. It has a hardness of 5 or even 6 on the Mohs scale and has the ability to reflect different colors depending on the angle of exposure to light.

Therefore, hypersthene is very common in metamorphic rocks and sometimes in certain meteorites of a rocky and iron nature. A deposit has been discovered in Canada, exactly where a meteorite exploded. In fact, the Apollo program demonstrated that this stone is also found on the moon. Its name comes from the ancient Greek “sthenos” which means “powerful” and from the particle hyper either “very” or “super”.

Historically, Abbot René Just Haüy (1743-1822) studied this stone which he described in his famous Treatise on Mineralogy published in 1801. He had discovered certain specimens in the Labrador region of Canada. However, Abraham Gottlob Werner (1749-1817), a Saxon mineralogist and geologist, had already mentioned this mineral, associating it with amphibole. He named it “paulite” in reference to the island of Saint-Paul. Then during his research, Haüy proved that this stone was a new species of mineral and gave it the name “hypersthene”.

Very few legends are told about the history of this stone. There is one that comes from the Squamish people, Native Americans of Canada. In the southwest of Canada is Mount Cayley. This name means “landing place of the Thunderbird” in reference to the legend of the Thunderbird. It is a mythical creature found in the first civilizations of North America. This creature is in fact a legendary bird with supernatural power. Its wingbeats can cause storms and thunder and its eyes flash lightning. Lightning would have struck the summit of Mount Cayley, which would explain why it is made of black earth. In reality, Mount Cayley is mainly composed of igneous rocks including hypersthene. It is a dormant volcano belonging to the Garibaldi volcanic belt.

The main deposits are located in Brazil, South Africa, Australia, Canada, etc.

In Lithotherapy, hypersthene is an anchoring stone, providing good psychological protection. It promotes openness towards others. It helps develop the feeling of empathy, compassion and understanding.

It provokes the acceptance of criticism without anger or irritability. It generates quality relationships and constructive exchanges. It is very useful for introverted people who have difficulty expressing themselves and defending their point of view.

It wards off negative feelings such as anger, resentment, even hatred. It harmoniously balances emotions by dissipating anxieties and anxiety. It provides self-acceptance, gives assurance and confidence.

Hypersthene reduces susceptibility or annoyance. Indeed, it allows you to put things into perspective and try to understand the point of view of a disagreeing interlocutor. It improves communication, whether on a personal or professional level. Then, he develops frankness, honesty and transmits ideas with conviction. Thus, the message conveyed is more convincing and has more impact.

This mineral restores strength and courage. It helps in making difficult decisions in complicated situations. It even reduces hyperactivity to facilitate introspection. It brings harmony within the couple, the family or between colleagues.

In conclusion, the balance of life is improved and of better quality. Paying attention to others bears fruit and makes you feel more calm in conflictual contexts.