It has been suggested that Chalcedony was one of the earliest materials used by man. Not only has the stone been mentioned as one of the twelve gems in the breastplate of Aaron, there is reference to its use in creating the foundation of the city walls of the ‘New Jerusalem’. In the 7th century BC, it was used to make eylindrical seals in the area of Mesopotamia.
Over time, as well as being set in jewellery and carvings, Chalcedony has been shaped into knives and tools. In particular it is used to carve attractive cameos, and is one of the gemstones used in commesso; a technique of fashioning pictures with thin, cut-to-shape pieces of brightly coloured gemstones (extremely popular in the 16th century in Florence, Italy).
The name derives from Chalkedon (an old Greek town) and the generic name ‘Chalcedony’ is also the name for all fine-grained Quartzes.
Chalcedony comes in an array of colours including hues such as milky blue, creamy white and soft grey. The gem is usually semi-transparent or translucent and its waxy lustre gives it an almost migical look.
This bewitching stone is thought to drive out dread, hysterics, melancholy, mental illness, and to reduce fever and prevent depression. Wearing Chalcedony promotes tranquility and harmony, and is also said to stimulate creativity.
Chalcedony is still a very popular gem today and even inspirational jewellery brands such as Boodles and Lorique set cabochon cut Chalcedony gems in 18k gold.
The gem is mined in various parts of the world including Brazil, Madagascar and Sri Lanka and is normally located in volcanic and sedimentary rocks.
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