Long ago, humankind believed that certain stones, especially precious stones, held magical properties and were worn as amulets before they were worn for mere ornamentation. With the belief that magical properties reside in all stones unique qualities were attributed to particular stones or types of stones. Stones have been thought to increase crops, insure fertility, protect against illness, and lend strength and stability.
The following are attributes and qualities of stones or what they may symbolize:
altar
deity image
symbol of power and foundation
associated with permanence
that which is of the earth
primal cause
thunder
rain maker
burden
weight
durability
longevity
abode of an external soul
fetish or medicine (Native American)
dwelling place of animal spirits
pillar or axis of heaven
transformed giants of past generations
first mortals were fashioned from rock
the masculine principle blended in gardens with water - the feminine principle (Japan)
(continued in Stones As Symbols Part 2)