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

Cacoxenite

The Golden Threads of Ascension

About the stone

Cacoxenite crystal — Photo: Christian Rewitzer, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cacoxenite is a hydrated iron–aluminum phosphate mineral that forms delicate, golden-yellow to brown sprays of needlelike crystals. First described in 1825 from the Hrbek mine in Bohemia, now Czechia, its name means “bad guest” in Greek because its phosphorus content reduced the quality of iron smelted from associated ore. Notable occurrences include Germany, Cornwall in England, Sweden, France, and several parts of the United States, including Arkansas and Alabama. In modern crystal lore, it is called a “stone of ascension,” symbolizing spiritual awareness and personal growth. Golden inclusions marketed as cacoxenite in amethyst or “Super Seven” stones are often instead identified as goethite or lepidocrocite.

Mineral data

Chemical composition: Cacoxenite is a hydrated iron aluminum phosphate mineral with the formula Fe₂₄Al(PO₄)₁₇O₆(OH)₁₂.17H₂O, with the iron in the ferric (3+) state.
Hardness: 3 to 4 on the Mohs scale.
Color: Golden yellow to brownish yellow, forming fine radiating needles.
Specific gravity: 2.2-2.6
Refractive index: 1.635-1.656

Metaphysical data

Cacoxenite, recognized for its golden radiating needles, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to raise spiritual awareness, encourage positivity and foster discernment.

Uplifting and Positive Energy

Cacoxenite is called the Stone of Ascension, believed to raise spiritual awareness and provide a loving, ethereal connection to the Universe.
It encourages one to bring good to their life and see the positive, beneficial, constructive forces in all events and situations.

Emotional Healing

Cacoxenite is thought to relieve stress and bring a calm, hopeful outlook to uncertain times.
It brings awareness of the significance of 'random' events, helping one find meaning and gentle order in chance.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

Cacoxenite is commonly linked with the solar plexus and crown chakras, joining personal will with spiritual awareness.
Its golden threads are often seen as lines of light linking the lower and higher centers.

Zodiac Associations

Cacoxenite is not strongly tied to one zodiac sign, so it may be used by anyone seeking spiritual uplift.
Its connection to renewal and positivity is thought to be available to all birth signs.

Spiritual Growth

Cacoxenite brings discretion from wisdom and discernment, helping one choose words and actions thoughtfully.
It is often used in meditation to raise spiritual awareness and sense a loving connection to the greater whole.

Physical Healing

Cacoxenite is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but it is traditionally believed to increase the renewal of cells, balance hormones and support the adrenals and thyroid.
It is also associated with relief of stomach and respiratory ailments, as folklore alongside proper medical care.

Care and handling

Cacoxenite is soft and fine needles are fragile, so handle gently and avoid knocks. It most often occurs inside quartz, which is durable and can be wiped with a soft damp cloth. Keep exposed needles dry and away from acids; avoid breathing any dust, and wash your hands after handling raw material.

Individual experiences with Cacoxenite vary, and its effects are personal rather than guaranteed. Use it mindfully to notice the good in each day, and rely on qualified professionals for hormone, thyroid and respiratory concerns.