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

Hypersthene

The Cloak of Quiet Restoration

Also known as: Velvet Labradorite

About the stone

Hypersthene crystal — Photo: Andrew Silver, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Hypersthene is a historical and trade name for dark, iron-bearing orthopyroxene in the enstatite–ferrosilite series, often displaying a silky bronze or copper-colored shimmer called schiller. René Just Haüy named it in 1804 after studying material from Labrador, Canada; its Greek-derived name means “over strength,” referring to its greater hardness than hornblende. Modern mineral classification abandoned hypersthene as a separate species in 1988. Sources include Canada, the United States, Norway, Greenland, and India. Historical names include paulite and Labrador hornblende; the trade name velvet labradorite is misleading because it is not labradorite feldspar. In modern crystal lore, it symbolizes grounding, calm, focus, and clear decision-making.

Mineral data

Chemical composition: Hypersthene is an orthorhombic pyroxene with about equal magnesium and iron, intermediate between enstatite and ferrosilite, with the formula (Mg,Fe)SiO₃.
Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
Color: Black, gray, blue or green, often showing a copper to red schiller or labradorescent sheen.
Specific gravity: 3.40-3.50
Refractive index: 1.673-1.731

Metaphysical data

Hypersthene, recognized for its metallic schiller and cloaklike energy, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to protect, restore and quiet the user in times of exhaustion.

Protective and Restful Energy

Hypersthene is believed to surround you and your aura like a cloak of protection and invisibility when you feel overburdened or worn out.
It is thought to be very useful for delicate stages after any illness, when one needs rest, healing and re-energizing.

Emotional Healing

The stone is often used to allow one to prioritize what is most valuable in their life and let go of what is not serving them.
It may turn focus inward, drawing attention to how the body feels and what it needs, which supports healthier choices and calmer days.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

Hypersthene is associated with all of the chakras, supporting an even and gentle balance throughout the subtle body.
It induces deepened meditation states, helping the energy centers settle into one quiet, resting rhythm.

Zodiac Associations

Hypersthene is linked with Virgo, Libra, Pisces and Scorpio, signs whose sensitivity and thoughtfulness are believed to appreciate its sheltering touch.
Its vibration is associated with the number 8, a number of balance, strength and the steady flow of giving and receiving.

Spiritual Growth

Hypersthene is believed to deepen meditation and make it easier to withdraw from noise, so that subtle guidance can be heard.
It encourages the avoiding of vices and bad habit formations by turning attention to what the body truly needs.

Physical Healing

Hypersthene is traditionally said to ameliorate insomnia and support recovery after illness, though it is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
Because it is said to reduce reliance on unnecessary medications, please never stop or change any medication without your doctor's guidance.

Care and handling

Hypersthene is moderately hard but has good cleavage, so it can split if struck. Protect its schiller surface from scratches and knocks. Clean it with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth, then dry it. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals. Store it separately from harder stones.

Individual experiences with Hypersthene vary, and its effects are personal. Approach it with gentleness, use it mindfully when you need rest and protection, and let your own intuition guide you.