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

Scolecite

The Gentle Needle of Deep Peace

About the stone

Scolecite crystal — Photo: Carles Millan, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Named in 1813 for the Greek word for worm, scolecite is a member of the zeolite group. It is a hydrated calcium silicate mineral that shares its structure with natrolite. It usually occurs as acicular or needle like, & fibrous aggregations or clusters. The clusters are composed of thin, prismatic needles, flattened on one side, with slanted terminations. It is usually white with slight pink areas, but can be salmon to red or even green. It is both pyroelectric & piezoelectric & some specimens fluoresce yellow under UV light. Found in many locations around the world, the best specimens come from Pune, India.

Mineral data

Chemical composition: Scolecite is a zeolite, a hydrated calcium aluminum silicate that shares its structure with natrolite, with an ideal formula of CaAl₂Si₃O₁₀.3H₂O.
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale.
Color: Usually white with slight pink areas; it can also be salmon to red or even green.
Specific gravity: 2.16 -2.40
Refractive index: 1.509-1.525

Metaphysical data

Scolecite, recognized for its fine needle-like sprays and its calming, loving energy, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to promote deep relaxation, inner peace and the open expression of love.

Calming and Settling Energy

Scolecite is regarded as a stone of inner peace and deep relaxation, helpful for slowing a busy mind at the end of a long day.
Its soft, feathery clusters are thought to quiet restlessness and invite stillness, making it a gentle companion for rest, breathing practice and quiet evenings.

Emotional Healing

Scolecite is believed to encourage the spontaneous expression of love, making it easier to share warm feelings that might otherwise stay unspoken.
It is often passed between lovers, as it is thought to soften defensiveness and open the way to tenderness, affection and honest closeness.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

Scolecite is thought to enhance heart chakra energies, which supports its reputation as a gentle stone for relationships and shared affection.
It is also associated with the third eye and crown chakras, where it is believed to open the mind to expanded awareness and higher perspective.

Zodiac Associations

Scolecite is traditionally associated with the sign of Capricorn, offering a softer, more relaxed energy to this disciplined and hardworking sign.
It vibrates to the number 1, which is linked with new beginnings, leadership and the courage to start fresh from a calm place.

Spiritual Growth

Scolecite is said to open interdimensional spaces for contact with otherworldly beings and for astral travel, and it is often used in deep meditation.
It is counted as one of the 12 Synergy Stones, a set often used together for connecting with spiritual guidance and higher awareness.

Physical Healing

Crystals are a traditional wellness practice and not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a doctor for any health concern, including digestive or lung issues.
In crystal tradition Scolecite is said to support healthy serotonin levels and to aid the intestines, the eyes and the lungs, and to help the body cleanse.

Care and handling

Scolecite forms delicate, needle-like clusters that are fragile and can snap or shed fibers if handled roughly, so lift specimens by their base. Clean only with a soft brush or a gentle puff of air, and do not soak them or use ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the needles and the water held in the structure. Keep them away from strong heat and sudden temperature changes, and store them where nothing will crush the sprays.

Individual experiences with Scolecite vary, and its qualities are traditional beliefs rather than proven facts. Use this gentle stone mindfully, as a companion for rest and loving connection, and take good care of the body in practical ways as well.