Purple Fluorite, a gemstone celebrated for its stunning hues and metaphysical properties, emerged as a unique and significant birthstone for a specific astrological alignment in 2017. While the standard monthly birthstone lists provide a well-established guide for many, the dynamic world of astrology and personal growth offers alternative stones tailored to celestial events. This article delves into the specific context of Purple Fluorite as the 2017 birthstone for a particular Jupiter/Chiron midpoint, exploring its gemological characteristics, its role in metaphysical practices, and its connection to personal development and career advancement. By synthesizing information from various sources, we will provide a comprehensive overview of this captivating gemstone, its properties, and its symbolic significance.
The 2017 Astrological Context and Birthstone Designation
In the realm of astrology, planetary midpoints—the points between two planets in a natal chart—are believed to hold specific energies and influences. In 2017, a notable configuration was the Jupiter/Chiron midpoint. According to astrological sources, the birthstone for this particular midpoint in 2017 was Purple Fluorite. This designation was not tied to a specific month but to an astrological event, offering a personalized gemstone for individuals influenced by this celestial alignment.
The astrological interpretation for this midpoint in 2017 was particularly focused on personal and professional growth. It was suggested that for teachers, counselors, scholars, or writers, this period would bring an "important breakthrough" in their careers. The energies of Jupiter, the planet of expansion and luck, combined with Chiron, the "Wounded Healer," were thought to help heal past traumas buried in the subconscious mind. The recommendation was to carry a piece of Purple Fluorite in a medicine pouch to aid in this personal development journey.
This specific use of Purple Fluorite as a birthstone for a 2017 astrological event highlights a broader trend where gemstones are selected not just for their month of birth but for their energetic resonance with specific life goals or celestial events. While the standard birthstone for January is Garnet, as listed in multiple sources (Sources 2, 3, 4), the 2017 Jupiter/Chiron midpoint birthstone represents a more niche, astrologically-driven application. This distinction is important for understanding the multifaceted nature of birthstone traditions, which blend historical, commercial, and metaphysical perspectives.
Gemological Properties of Fluorite
To fully appreciate Purple Fluorite as a gemstone, one must understand its fundamental gemological properties. Fluorite is a mineral species known for its wide range of colors, from colorless to vibrant shades of green, blue, yellow, and purple. Its chemical composition is calcium fluoride (CaF₂), and it crystallizes in the cubic system, often forming well-defined octahedral or cubic crystals.
A key property of fluorite is its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, rated at 4. This makes it a relatively soft gemstone compared to others like quartz (Mohs 7) or diamond (Mohs 10). Its low hardness means it is susceptible to scratching and abrasion, requiring careful handling and storage. Fluorite also exhibits perfect cleavage in four directions, which can make it challenging to cut and set without risking damage if struck at the right angle.
Despite its softness, fluorite is prized for its exceptional clarity and brilliance when properly cut. It has a vitreous luster and a refractive index of 1.434, which contributes to its sparkle. The purple variety of fluorite, in particular, can range from a light lavender to a deep violet, often with a subtle, smoky quality. The color in fluorite is typically caused by trace elements or defects in the crystal structure, and it is generally stable under normal lighting conditions, though some fluorite can fade with prolonged exposure to intense sunlight.
The gemological profile of fluorite—its chemical composition, hardness, cleavage, and optical properties—defines its suitability for jewelry. While it is not a traditional "hard" gemstone for daily wear, it is often used in pendants, earrings, and other pieces that are less subject to impact. Its relative affordability and wide color range make it accessible to many gemstone enthusiasts.
Historical and Cultural Lore of Fluorite
Fluorite's history is rich with both practical and mystical associations. The name "fluorite" is derived from the Latin word fluere, meaning "to flow," a reference to its use as a flux in metallurgy to lower the melting point of metals. This industrial application has been known since ancient times, with Roman and Chinese civilizations utilizing fluorite in metalworking processes.
In the realm of gemology and lore, fluorite has been admired for its beauty and believed properties. While not as historically prominent as gemstones like sapphire or emerald, fluorite has carved out a niche in metaphysical traditions. It is often associated with clarity of thought, organization, and spiritual awakening. The purple variety, in particular, is linked to the higher chakras, specifically the crown and third eye chakras, which are connected to intuition, wisdom, and spiritual insight.
The specific designation of Purple Fluorite as the 2017 birthstone for the Jupiter/Chiron midpoint aligns with these metaphysical beliefs. The idea that it can aid in healing subconscious traumas and facilitating career breakthroughs resonates with fluorite's reputation for mental clarity and emotional balance. In some traditions, fluorite is also called the "Genius Stone" due to its purported ability to enhance concentration and decision-making, making it a fitting talisman for scholars, writers, and counselors.
It is important to note that the historical use of fluorite as a gemstone is relatively modern compared to ancient stones like lapis lazuli or turquoise. While it has been collected and used in jewelry for centuries, its rise as a popular gemstone in the 20th century coincided with advancements in cutting and polishing techniques that allowed it to be showcased more effectively. Today, fluorite is appreciated both for its industrial uses and its aesthetic appeal, bridging the gap between science and spirituality.
Fluorite Sources and Mining Locations
Fluorite is a common mineral found in a variety of geological settings worldwide. It forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with lead, zinc, and silver ores, and can also be found in sedimentary rocks and as a component of some igneous rocks. Major commercial sources of fluorite include China, which is the world's largest producer, followed by Mexico, South Africa, and Russia. In the United States, significant deposits are located in Illinois, Kentucky, and Colorado.
The quality of gem-grade fluorite varies by location. Chinese fluorite is known for its vibrant colors and large crystal sizes, making it suitable for both mineral specimens and gemstone cutting. Mexican fluorite often exhibits beautiful color zoning and is frequently used in jewelry. South African fluorite can be found in deep purple and green hues, prized by collectors and lapidaries.
The mining of fluorite is typically a byproduct of other metal mining operations. For example, in Illinois, fluorite is mined alongside lead and zinc. The extraction process involves traditional mining methods, including underground and open-pit operations. Once mined, the raw fluorite is sorted, cut, and polished to enhance its natural beauty. The availability of fluorite is generally stable, which keeps its market price relatively low compared to rarer gemstones like emerald or ruby.
For the 2017 birthstone context, the geographic origin of the Purple Fluorite used in personal talismans or jewelry would likely not be specified, as the emphasis was on its energetic properties rather than its mineralogical provenance. However, understanding its global sources adds depth to its story as a widely available yet unique gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Purple Fluorite holds a special place in metaphysical circles due to its color and properties. Purple is traditionally associated with royalty, spirituality, and higher consciousness. In crystal healing practices, purple fluorite is believed to stimulate the crown chakra, promoting spiritual awareness and connection to the divine. It is also thought to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, making it a favorite among those who practice meditation or energy work.
The specific metaphysical application for the 2017 Jupiter/Chiron midpoint focused on career breakthroughs and healing past traumas. Jupiter, as the planet of expansion and opportunity, combined with Chiron's healing influence, suggests a period where old wounds are addressed to make room for professional growth. Purple Fluorite, in this context, is seen as a tool to clear mental fog, organize thoughts, and facilitate emotional release. Carrying it in a medicine pouch, as recommended, is a way to keep its energy close, serving as a constant reminder of one's goals and intentions.
It is crucial to approach these metaphysical claims with a critical eye. While many people find comfort and meaning in crystal healing, these beliefs are not scientifically validated. The gemological community primarily values fluorite for its physical properties and aesthetic appeal. However, the cultural and personal significance attributed to gemstones like fluorite contributes to their enduring popularity. As noted in one source, "The idea that birthstones possess a certain indefinable, but nonetheless real significance, has long been present and still holds a spell over the minds of all who are gifted with a touch of imagination and romance" (Source 4).
Care and Cleaning of Fluorite
Given fluorite's relatively low hardness and perfect cleavage, proper care is essential to maintain its beauty and integrity. As a gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 4, it is softer than many other gems and can be easily scratched by harder materials. It is advisable to store fluorite jewelry separately from other pieces, preferably in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box.
Cleaning fluorite requires gentle methods. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as the vibrations and heat can cause fractures or exacerbate existing cleavage planes. Instead, clean fluorite with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Chemical cleaners, including household acids or abrasives, should be avoided as they can etch or damage the surface.
For jewelry settings, fluorite is best set in protective settings like bezels rather than prong settings, which expose the stone to potential impacts. It is not recommended for rings worn daily, as hand washing, lotions, and minor knocks can accumulate damage over time. Earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings are more suitable for fluorite jewelry.
When using fluorite for metaphysical purposes, such as in a medicine pouch, it is still important to handle it with care to prevent physical damage. Regular cleansing of the stone, both physically and energetically, is often recommended in crystal healing practices, using methods like moonlight exposure or smudging with sage.
Conclusion
Purple Fluorite stands out as a gemstone of both scientific interest and metaphysical significance. In the context of 2017, it was designated as the birthstone for a specific astrological midpoint, symbolizing a time for career breakthroughs and healing subconscious traumas. Its gemological properties, including its chemical composition of calcium fluoride, low hardness, and perfect cleavage, define its use in jewelry and its need for careful handling. Historically, fluorite has been valued for its industrial applications and, more recently, for its aesthetic and spiritual qualities. Its global sources ensure availability, while its purple variety carries deep symbolic meaning related to intuition and spiritual growth.
For gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology, fluorite offers a fascinating case study in how a mineral can bridge the worlds of science, history, and personal belief. Whether appreciated for its vibrant colors, its role in metaphysical practices, or its unique place in astrological traditions, Purple Fluorite remains a captivating gemstone that continues to inspire and intrigue.