Crystal Encyclopedia

Choose a letter, pick a stone from the list, and read about it: what it is made of, how hard it is, what it looks like, what it has traditionally been said to do, and how to look after it.

450 minerals

Auralite 23

The Many-Mineral Dream of Thunder Bay

Also known as: Thunder Bay Amethyst, Red Capped Amethyst

  • All chakras

About the stone

Auralite 23 crystal
A similar stone: no photo of this exact one was found.Photo: Tom'swikipediapage, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Auralite 23 is a trade name for amethyst-bearing quartz with colorful mineral inclusions, rather than a distinct mineral species; the “23” refers to a marketing claim about its possible inclusions, not a verified count in every crystal. Its modern commercial history centers on a family-operated mine established in 2003 near Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, with wider market recognition around 2007; a securely documented original discoverer is unclear. Its named source lies in the boreal forest north of Lake Superior. In modern crystal lore, it symbolizes deep meditation, spiritual awakening, and connection with ancient wisdom.

Mineral data

  • Chemical composition: Auralite 23 is amethyst, a silicon dioxide (SiO2) quartz, containing many tiny inclusions of other minerals, including iron oxides, sulfides and trace metals, so its makeup varies by stone.
  • Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale.
  • Color: Deep purple, sometimes very dark or with a red tinge.
  • Specific gravity: 2.63-2.65
  • Refractive index: 1.544-1.553

Metaphysical data

Auralite 23, recognized as a rare Canadian amethyst full of mineral inclusions, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to calm the mind, awaken intuition and align all the energy centers.

Calming and Cleansing Energy

  • Auralite 23 is believed to be very calming, cooling anger and hot tempers and encouraging one to think before speaking.
  • It is thought to sweep debris away from consciousness, leaving a clear, quiet space for insight.

Emotional Healing

  • Auralite 23 is often used to help one see abilities and shortfalls clearly, supporting honest and compassionate self-awareness.
  • It is believed to encourage meeting each moment with positive intention, blessing the world with one's own love and self-giving.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

  • Auralite 23 is associated with the alignment of all chakras, and is thought to bring the entire energy system into harmony.
  • Its many mineral inclusions are said to resonate with every center, making it a favorite for meditation and healing work.

Zodiac Associations

  • Auralite 23 is associated with all zodiac signs, making it a universal stone for any birth chart.
  • It vibrates to the numbers 2 and 11 (Auralite 23) and 4 (Thunder Bay amethyst), linked with intuition, cooperation and steadiness.

Spiritual Growth

  • Auralite 23 is believed to open psychic sensitivity, insights into truth, lucid dreaming, balanced awakenings, future visions and angelic contact.
  • It is thought to help one remember past lives and karma, offering perspective on current life lessons.

Physical Healing

  • Auralite 23 is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but it is traditionally believed to balance the physical body and restore proper vital functions.
  • It is also said to bring forth regeneration and rejuvenation, to be seen as a complement to proper medical care.

Care and handling

Auralite 23 is hard and durable, but as an amethyst its color can fade in strong, prolonged sunlight, so keep it out of direct light and heat. Because it contains many mineral inclusions, including metal-bearing minerals, never use it in water, elixirs or gem infusions. Wipe it with a damp cloth, avoid grinding it, and wash your hands after handling rough pieces.

Individual experiences with Auralite 23 vary, and its effects are personal rather than guaranteed. Use it mindfully for meditation and reflection, and rely on qualified professionals for health matters.