Characteristics
A form of oxide quartz, pietersite contains mottled, swirling colors of gold, deep midnight blue, red, brown and white. When turned around in the light, pietersite changes color with a shimmering quality, called chatoyancy. Pietersite is sometimes called the tempest stone and eagle's eye.
History
The stone was discovered in Namibia in 1962 by Sid Pieters. Pietersite is rare, found only in Africa and China.
Uses at Home and Work
If you feel scattered and unorganized, you might try keeping pietersite around, at home or at work. Some people find that it helps them stay focused and keep things prioritized. Others believe it also helps if you need to move or change jobs on short notice. Pietersite is also considered a protective stone for traveling in bad weather.
Healing Properties
Pietersite is used in healing practices to alleviate high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems and muscle tension. Some practitioners also believe it helps the endocrine system, as well as the eyes. Pietersite is also used by some women to alleviate PMS and menopause symptoms. This gemstone is said to be excellent for improving memory. In chakra healing, it is used on the solar-plexus chakra.
Metaphysical Properties
Pietersite is believed by some to build morale and self-esteem and to gain courage and a sense of accomplishment in creating things that are truly yours. It is a popular stone among artists and writers. Pietersite can be used during meditation to help with grounding, visions, intuition and journeying. Carrying a piece of pietersite is said to increase creativity.