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

Skutterudite

The Shaman's Silver Messenger

Mineral data

Skutterudite crystal — Photo: Didier Descouens, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Chemical composition: Skutterudite is a cobalt arsenide mineral, (Co,Ni)As₃. It contains arsenic and is toxic.
Hardness: 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
Color: Tin-white to silver-gray with a bright metallic luster, sometimes tarnishing iridescent.

Metaphysical data

Skutterudite, a bright silver-white metallic mineral, has been utilized in metaphysical practices as a meditation stone for inner harmony, shamanic work and spiritual messages.

Harmonizing and Centering Energy

Skutterudite is thought to offer a connection to harmony within yourself and on a greater, universal plane, helping a person feel centered.
It is believed to have a consistent energy, a steady hum that supports calm focus during meditation and reflection.

Emotional Healing

Skutterudite is said to work well for resolving inner conflict when meditated with, helping opposing feelings meet and settle into peace.
By inviting calm reflection, it is thought to help a person understand tangled emotions and move toward a more peaceful relationship with themselves.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

The source lore names no specific chakra for Skutterudite, though its stimulation of higher consciousness is often linked with the upper energy centers.
Its steady energy is believed to support the flow between a person's inner self and the greater Universe during meditation.

Zodiac Associations

Skutterudite is not strongly tied to any one zodiac sign in the source lore, and it may be used by anyone drawn to its metallic shine.
No numerology number is given for it, so people are free to work with it according to their own intuition and personal practice.

Spiritual Growth

Skutterudite is considered wonderful for engaging your shamanic power and relaying messages from within the Universe, a dream-like and symbolic communication.
Its consistent energy is said to offer stimulation to a higher consciousness and enlightenment, which suits long-term spiritual practice.

Physical Healing

Crystals are a traditional wellness practice and not a substitute for professional medical advice; since this stone contains arsenic, it is never used on or in the body.
The source lore names no specific physical healing uses, and it is best kept as a display and meditation piece, held only briefly and then handled with clean hands.

Care and handling

Skutterudite is an arsenic-bearing mineral and should be treated as toxic. Wash your hands after handling it, do not grind, sand or powder it, and avoid breathing dust. Never use it as an elixir or in gem water, never put it in water or in the mouth, and keep it away from children and pets. Store it in a closed container, wipe it only with a dry cloth, and keep it away from heat and acids, which can release hazardous fumes.

Individual experiences with Skutterudite vary, and its qualities are traditional beliefs rather than proven facts. Use it mindfully and with care, as a distant display and meditation piece, and always put safety before symbolism.