You might associate gemstones with far-off countries and exotic places, but you may be able to find gemstones closer than you think. With a little digging and a keen eye, you can turn up gemstones in your own backyard (or close to it). Here are some common gemstones that might be just a few feet away.

1. Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a colorful gemstone that occurs in a variety of colors. Tourmaline actually refers to a group of related minerals, and prices for tourmaline vary depending on the color and size of the gemstone.

You can find multi-colored tourmaline as well, and the color of tourmaline may vary depending on the light and viewing angle. Black tourmaline is particularly distinctive, with a dark, opaque, shiny finish. Tourmaline can be used in bracelets and necklaces, and large stones can be carved into unique shapes. In the United States, tourmaline is most commonly found in California and Maine. It’s easy to confuse colored tourmaline with other gemstones, but you can have your find confirmed by a gemologist.

2. Quartz

Quartz is one of the easiest materials to find. Amethyst, agate, carnelian, and citrine are some gemstone varieties of quartz. Pure quartz is colorless, and impurities in the quartz are what can give it the vibrant colors you find in gemstones. Quartz is typically affordable and can be cut into jewelry as well as formed into spheres and sculptures. Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, and it’s considered the most valuable. You can find amethyst in Colorado, Arizona, Maine, North Carolina, and several other states.

Agate is a form of chalcedony, which is a variety of quartz. Agate isn’t the most attractive gemstone in its natural state. Once it’s polished, though, it is colorful and can be found in white, blue, red, purple, and more. Slabs of agate are sometimes used for decoration, and they are also perfect for beads and other jewelry pieces. You can find agate in Montana, South Dakota, New Mexico, Michigan, and other states.

3. Topaz

Topaz is a hard gemstone that comes in a variety of colors. It’s relatively inexpensive and can be found in large crystals. It’s one of the hardest minerals and forms inside igneous rocks. It can be found in streams as well. Natural topaz is lightly colored, and colorless topaz is sometimes used as a diamond simulant. Topaz is used in everything from earrings to pendants. Topaz is most commonly found in the western United States and is the official gemstone of Utah.

4. Jade

Jade is a stone that is most commonly green, although it can come in other colors like purple and white. Jade is actually two different minerals: nephrite and jadeite. Jade has been used since ancient times in jewelry and sculptures and is often used to make jewelry beads. It was also used as a tool in ancient times. In its rough form, it has a dull, greenish color. It’s typically found in metamorphic rocks and can be found in California, Washington, and Wyoming.

5. Malachite

This is a dark green gemstone with rings, giving it a distinctive appearance. Although it isn’t the most durable gemstone, it is still popular and is considered by some to have healing properties. It usually forms within limestone. It is often used to make beads and is used to make ornate carvings and, until the 16th century, it was often used as a pigment for painting. In the United States, it is most commonly found in Arizona.

6. Garnet

Garnet is another gemstone with ancient roots. It was popular in Ancient Rome and has been found in Egyptian burial sites. Garnets are actually a group of minerals. The color most commonly associated with garnets is dark red, but you can find garnets in orange, yellow, pink, and black.

Some common varieties of garnets include almandine, pyrope, and rhodolite. Almandine is the deep red color and is the type most often used in jewelry. Spessartite is an orange form of garnet. Garnets are relatively affordable and are popular in jewelry.

The hardness of garnets varies depending on the type of garnet, but it is hard enough to be considered a good abrasive, and it has several industrial uses, including cutting steel. They can be found in Arizona, North Carolina, California, Utah, Montana, Colorado, and Idaho.

7. Obsidian

Obsidian is an igneous rock. It forms when molten rock cools and is technically a mineraloid. It has a glass-like appearance and is often found above the Earth’s surface. Obsidian is usually associated with the color black, but it can come in other colors as well, including green and brown. It was used by Stone Age cultures as a cutting tool.

Today, obsidian is sometimes used as a surgical cutting tool. It is also popular in jewelry and can be shaped into gemstone beads. It’s not the most durable stone, so it’s most often used in pendants and earrings. It can be found in Arizona, Nevada, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Washington, Oregon, and Wyoming.

8. Turquoise

Turquoise has been used for thousands of years for jewelry, tools, and sculptures. Its distinctive color is one of the reasons for its popularity. It is most commonly found in the southwestern United States. It is often used to make beads and other small jewelry pieces.

It’s also very porous, so, if you do find it, don’t clean it with anything other than water. It is also sensitive to sunlight and should be properly stored. Turquoise in the rough has the same color as the finished gemstone.

9. Opal

Opal is a form of silica, and precious opal has an iridescent quality that makes it appealing. Some rare opals can be more valuable than diamonds. It comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, purple, pink, brown, and green. Black opals are the most desired form of opal. White opals and fire opals are also popular. They are often used in jewelry, and common opals can also be used to carve figures.

Opals in the rough have an iridescent quality, making them relatively easy to find. It can be found in Idaho, California, Oregon, and Nevada, and it is the birthstone for those born in October.

10. Peridot

Peridot is the gemstone version of the mineral olivine. It is usually found in variations of the color green, which occurs due to the amount of iron in the olivine. Olivine is usually found in igneous rocks. As a gemstone, peridot is relatively soft. It is easy to scratch and can burst under pressure. It’s relatively affordable and is popular in beads, necklaces, and bracelets. Peridot can be found in Arizona, Hawaii, and Colorado, and olivine in the rough has a distinctive green color.

Written by Joe Smith

There isn’t much that’s more gratifying than finding a gemstone. It might take hours, or you might get lucky right off the bat, but, if you look in the right place, you may just find a precious gem you can enjoy yourself or sell to someone else. There are numerous promising sites in the U.S. for gem hunting. With some information about the mining process, the equipment you need, and the best places to explore, you’ll be ready for a mining expedition of your own.

Types of Mining

There are numerous techniques used by professional and amateur miners to locate gemstones. One method used by professionals is open pit mining. This involves digging a large but relatively shallow pit. These mines can be quite wide, and, after they’re used, they can be rehabilitated into parks or recreational communities.

Underground mining may be what springs to mind when you hear the word “mining.” This type of mining is typically done by professionals and involves digging tunnels and shafts. The type of mining varies, depending on the gemstone being sought. Tunneling, for example, is used for emeralds and involves digging a tunnel down to the rock.

Amateurs or professionals can do river digging. Panning is a common technique which involves filling a pan with gravel and water and then shaking the pan. Light material washes away, and small rocks and potential gemstones are left behind.

If you’re a recreational miner, you have a few options for mining. Panning is one option. You can also ask for permission to dig in a mine that’s no longer being used. Some commercial mining operations will allow you to go through their mine tailings. These are leftover piles of gravel and dirt, and mining operations may let you dig for free.

Fee digs allow you to search a mine for a fee. Mine operators prepare a mine specifically for amateur miners. They may import tock or bring up material from underground. If being underground isn’t for you, you can try geology hunting. Gems can sometimes surface due to erosion and falling rocks. You can usually access them easily, and you can enjoy the outdoors at the same time.

Equipment Needed for Mining

The equipment you need for mining is relatively inexpensive. The exact equipment varies depending on the type of mining you plan to do. For all types of mining, wear comfortable clothes that are appropriate for the weather and which you don’t mind getting dirty.

For sluicing, which is similar to panning, most of your equipment will be provided by the mine operators. Bring a cushion to sit on, and wear gloves. For panning, you’ll be outside, so you’ll need sunscreen and insect repellant. The other equipment you need, like a shovel and a screen, can be rented from the mining operation, or you can bring your own. For digging, you will need a rock hammer, a shovel, and a bucket.

For all types of mining, bring collection bags to safely store your finds. Plastic baggies work well, and bring light paper to wrap your gems. Goggles are a good investment to keep your eyes safe, especially if you’re digging, and a magnifying glass can also be handy for closely examining your finds.

Types of Gems You Can Find in the U.S.

You can find a wide variety of gemstones throughout the United States. Arizona, for example, is the highest producer of gemstones. You can find turquoise, peridot, azurite, agate, and more in the state. The North Carolina mountains are home to hidden treasures, as well as sapphires, rubies, aquamarine, topaz, and more. Oregon is home to a unique gemstone called Oregon Sunstone. It is a feldspar that has copper throughout that reflects light.

There are other gemstones in the state, including geodes and opals. California, Utah, Tennessee, Montana, Colorado, Arkansas, Idaho, Maine, Louisiana, and Nevada all offer various gemstones. Idaho is actually known as “The Gem State.” Opal, star garnet, jade, and more have been found in the state.

Places to Mine in the U.S.

To explore the states that have gemstones, you have several options. Some mines are open to the public, and, if you are interested in mining on private property, you can contact the property owners for more information.

Emerald Hollow Mine, for example, is a North Carolina mine open to the public. In addition to hunting for emeralds, you can also find quartz, Hiddenite, and numerous other gems and minerals. There is also a lapidary on site that can transform your raw finds into shiny gemstones.

Gem Mountain is also in North Carolina. You can find rubies, moonstones, and aquamarines, and there are gemologists on site to help you identify your finds. There are two mines to explore and plenty of places to stay to enjoy the gems and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas allows you to explore a volcanic field for diamonds, and you can keep whatever you find. You can also find other gems and minerals in the park. The park offers tent sites and a play pool, so you can take the family with you on your excursion.

Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine is in Philipsburg, Montana. You can find sapphires as well as other gemstones, and the staff will help you identify promising finds. It’s a bit of a drive to this former mining town, but it’s a charming location with other shops to explore when you’re not sorting through your finds.

Nevada has two mines that are open to the public during the summer. Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine allows you to look for opals. You’ll need to bring your own equipment to explore the mine. Bonanza Opal Mine allows you to hunt for fire opals, which have vivid colors and make for striking gemstone beads and jewelry pieces.

Jade Cove Trail is in Big Sur, California. As the name indicates, you can find jade along the trail. Digging is restricted, though, as the trail is a part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, but you can pick up gems that are in plain sight.

Richmond, Virginia is home to Morefield Mine. The mine is 300 feet below ground and more than 2,000 feet long. You can find amazonite, as well as 80 other minerals and gems. You need to bring your own bucket or container to hold the rocks and other items you find.

Graves Mountain, in Lincolnton, Georgia, is opened to visitors periodically. You need to bring your own tools, but you may be able to find quartz, hematite, and lazulite.

Written by Joe Smith

Imagine being harassed, discriminated against, or even jailed on false accusations, simply because of your religion and/or fashion style?  It’s not unheard of, especially for modern-day pagans and followers of alternative spirituality, as well as those with “goth” fashion styles (black clothing, unusual jewelry and gemstones) and musical tastes.

It wasn’t that long ago that professing an alternative spirituality, or merely being suspected of dark religious practices had dangerous results. In the 1980’s the so-called ‘satanic panic’ led to unfounded hysteria over things as innocent as Smurfs and Dungeons & Dragons, as well as many false convictions based on wildly improbable tales lacking concrete evidence. You may be aware of the West Memphis 3 case or the recent 2013 release of Fran and Dan Keller after 21 years in prison—these are but a few examples.

As much as we want to believe our country has progressed from those dark times, it’s still important for goths and followers of alternate spiritual paths such as New Age, Wicca and Shamanism to understand the potential pitfalls they can face from having their religion misunderstood and unfairly maligned.

If you feel that you are or could find yourself in a bad situation based on your fashion sense or beliefs, here are some things that you can look into in order to help yourself or others in a similar situation:

• If you are suspected or falsely accused of a crime because of your appearance or religion, do some research on criminal defense lawyers and law firms that have experience handling such cases. It also doesn’t hurt to study the history of such convictions and make connections with advocates and activists who educate the public on the staggering lack of evidence of criminal activities in most of those situations.
• If embroiled in a criminal or legal matter, be respectful of authorities and dress and comport yourself appropriately. Everyone of any faith or lifestyle has to ‘dress for the occasion’, and it’s important to remember this, especially when your well being is at stake.
• Similarly, if you are experiencing harassment, discrimination or wrongful termination in the workplace because of your Pagan beliefs, find the right employment law attorneys to help you.  Make sure to document every instance where you have experienced inappropriate behaviors and comments.  Save all electronic communications that could serve as evidence for your case.
• Be proud!  There is nothing shameful or bad about your religious beliefs and practices.  Study the history and precepts of your religion, and advocate for it in a pleasant and positive manner.  You can go a long way in dispelling unfounded myths and misconceptions. You can take this all a step further by reaching out to, and forming connections with, law enforcement officers, educators, religious officials and interfaith organizations.  People of traditional faiths have been very supportive of religious freedom and diversity.

Above all, always keep in mind one of the greatest principles our country was founded upon. You can find it in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.

Never believe that you’re powerless to be who you are.

Alex is a blogger for The Kyle Law Firm, a personal injury law firm in New Braunfels, Texas. He is interested in different religious practices.

Chunky, statement jewellery and tribal inspired pieces are everywhere this season, but this look can sometimes be difficult to pull off every day. If you’re looking for a little inspiration when it comes to picking out the hottest jewellery trends to rock to work and for weekend wear, then here’s our guide to the 5 jewellery trends to be seen in this autumn/winter.

#1. Statement jewellery

Big, bold styles are hot right now, but it can be difficult to pull off a chunky choker if you’re not feeling confident. It’s all about how you wear these pieces, and what you wear them with. One piece of statement jewellery at a time is more than enough, and you should keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid looking too ‘busy.’ A plain shift dress teamed with a chunky, tribal choker is the perfect look for after work drinks, or why not be bold with this season’s chunky cuffs? Teamed with a three-quarter sleeve blazer, a chunky, stylish cuff will really help you stand out!

#2. Mixed metals

For an ethnic inspired look, mix your metals. Opt for costume and fashion jewellery and layer bangles or rings in various hues, from silver to yellow and rose gold, copper and brass. As a rule, when layering bangles stick to thinner, more delicate styles to avoid looking too overdone. Chunkier cuffs can be worn alone, but thinner bangles look more beautiful layered together, and mixing your metals gives a really fun look to this popular style.

#3. Inspirational pieces

Jewellery with an inspirational messages are always popular, but this season it’s a big hit. Rings from designers such as Wright & Teague, inscribed with poetic quotes, song lyrics or meaningful messages are everywhere, and whether you choose a chunky silver bangle or delicate yellow gold ring, you’re sure to look great rocking an inspirational message! Take things one step further and create a bespoke ID bracelet or ring with an inscription of your choice – the perfect gift for a special occasion!

#4. Chunky chains

Chain link jewellery is a top trend this season, and the chunkier, the better. From chunky chain-link necklaces to more delicate chain charm bracelets, chain jewellery is the perfect way to toughen up a pretty, feminine dress or add a touch of sass to an otherwise staid shift dress.

#5. Bold bangles

Chunky, hammered metal cuffs, bronze bangles, brass bejewelled bracelets – wrist jewellery is where it’s at this season, so make sure your wrists are adorned with some of this autumn’s hottest styles. Delicate, sparkly cuffs by CIRO in yellow gold and cubic zirconia are great for nights out, whilst bold, hammered metal cuffs make a statement during the day. The chunkier, the better is the rule, so don’t be afraid of statement cuffs and bangles.

Keep one eye on these five top jewellery trends to be seen in and you’re sure to be leading the fashion pack this winter. From designer jewellery to fabulous fashion and costume styles, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets. If you are still struggling to find something that suits you, get online at Beyond Bespoke (www.beyondbespoke.co) and have a look at some of the high end luxury items that they have on their site. We are sure you’ll find something to suit your taste. Remember that fashion can be an outlet for expression so trust your instincts and put something together that compliments you.

Featured images:

• License: Creative Commons image source

Nick James is a freelancer writer and blogger..

Being happy and stress-free is vital to living a long, healthy life. Juggling work, family, social relationships and everything else that life throws our way can make it difficult to attain the feeling of inner peace that so many of us crave. The path towards finding this inner peace will be a little different for every individual, however, there are a few approaches that we can all take that have already helped many achieve their own personal harmony.

Whether you take up meditation or yoga or embark on one of the famous spiritual crusades found around the world (such as the well-traveled El Camino de Santiago Spanish pilgrimage, popular Inca Trail in South America or the newer St. Paul Trail in Turkey), following one or all of these practices can be a great place to start your quest for a more tranquil life.

Meditation

Meditation is one of the oldest and most favored methods of finding inner peace and happiness. There are several meditation disciplines that one can perform, some of the most basic being mindfulness, sitting, transcendental, Kundalini, Qigong and guided visualization; all meant to minimize external and internal distractions that keep your mind overwhelmed. Though each technique has a different way of bringing a person into a meditative state, some calling for an absolutely still body and others allowing free movement, they all focus on turning negative thoughts into positive ones through calming and quieting down the mind. Whichever type you decide is best for you, continue to carry it out until you find that relaxation has completely taken over.

Yoga

Much like meditation, yoga requires a great deal of concentration on the mind and body. The varying disciplines of yoga (restorative, vinyasa, hatha, Bikram, Iyengar, anusara and ashtanga) all have one thing at the core of their foundation, which is to train the mind to zero in on ridding the body of physical stress. Whether you engage in restful yoga poses or complicated pretzel twists, finding that important connection between mind, body and spirit is one of the most effective ways of acquiring serenity and becoming more healthy at the same time.

Pilgrimages

Practicing meditation or yoga for even a few minutes each day can help immensely with everyday stressors, but oftentimes, those seeking true inner peace need to fully take themselves outside of their everyday surroundings to find it. Numerous people have discovered that setting out on a pilgrimage is just the life-enhancing experience they needed. Pilgrimages are generally associated with spiritual beliefs and trails that lead to sacred holy destinations, however, there are many more reasons individuals have for taking part in such a journey. The ancient El Camino de Santiago Spanish pilgrimage (shown below) is one of the most well-known long distance paths for trekkers to turn to when on a mission for peace.

Ridding our lives of stress completely seems like an unattainable goal, but regularly revitalizing our emotional and mental states through meditation and yoga can lead to a feeling of calm, increase clarity and help find a sense of balance. And don’t hesitate to look even deeper within on a spiritual pilgrimage in a foreign land.

Featured images:

• License: Creative Commons image source
• License: Creative Commons image source
• License: Creative Commons image source

By Tiffany Olson

Tiffany Olson is an avid blogger from Northern California and she loves all things spiritual related. She practices yoga and meditation regularly, and loves to share knowledge and experience about these practices.

Most men face a dilemma when they want to formally propose to the love of their life. Their biggest worry is what sort of a ring they should buy for their girlfriend because men and women have different tastes, especially in jewelry, so buying the perfect engagement ring can be a daunting task. Not to forget the fact that most women wear their engagement rings more than any other piece of jewelry, makes it even more important to find the best engagement ring possible. The good thing is there is a wide array of rings to choose from based on their size, design, carat, metal, color and price; so there is something for everyone. Some women love big rocks while there are others who prefer the intricate designs. If your woman loves delicate designs and intricate jewelry then a Filigree engagement ring is your best bet.

Filigree is an ancient metal decorative technique used for molding elaborate designs on jewelry. Rings made with filigree designs have an old world charm to them and the intricate work on them adds to the beauty of your ring. The fact that filigree rings can be formed out of different kinds of metals like yellow gold, white gold, platinum etc makes them a favorite with modern brides who like to opt for vintage inspired rings from the Edwardian and the Art Deco era. The romanticism from these eras combined with the subtle modern designs of today makes these rings a perfect token of love.  Most of these rings are hand crafted and hence specially made to order, making your engagement ring a unique and exclusive design.

The filigree engagement ring can be custom made so that you can have specific motifs woven or scrollwork designed on your ring, giving it a very delicate and lacy look. The designs are perfect for those who seek feminine and charming patterns on their jewelry, so if your bride-to-be has a penchant for intricate artwork and embellishments, you can safely invest in the antique inspired filigree rings. What works best for them is the fact that you can incorporate any gemstones or diamonds in these designs for an added touch of elegance. So you can get her favorite cut of diamond or favorite gemstones set in the ring and make the proposal a special moment for both of you.

By choosing filigree inspired rings, you invest in a piece of antique jewelry that will be unique and unlike any other piece of jewelry you own. These Art Deco inspired engagement rings display a traditional craft that is perfect to celebrate your new beginning as a couple and own a piece of jewelry that flaunts an antique and timeless designs. This is one of the major reasons why more and more modern brides are opting for these timeless classics and eternal engagement rings. The lace-work inspired filigree engagement ringis one of the best selling pieces in vintage inspired jewelry and hence a lot of women choose these antique rings for their special day.

Featured images:

•  License: Creative Commons image source

Kc mouli is a freelance writer who loves to review and post tips on how to select jewelry especially filigree engagement rings; please feel free to share if you have any additional tips or suggestions on engagement rings.

If you have been on the internet for long enough, you may have seen advertisements of free psychic readings online. While many of these advertisements are false, it is unfortunate to see the actual psychics’ message get lost in the crowd of spam and scams.

The fact of the matter is that you really can get a psychic reading through online websites, but you need to be careful when choosing the website you visit. Here are some ways to distinguish the real websites from the fake ones.

Check for recommendations

One great way to find if a psychic reader online is the real deal is by checking his or her recommendations. Most reputable online psychic readers keep a list of recommendations and references ready for potential customers. You can also ask your friends, neighbors, colleagues, and relatives about any online psychics that they have met and talked to.

At the very least, they can tell you about people who falsely claim to be psychic so you can watch out for them and focus on the genuine psychics online.

You also have to remember that a psychic who does not give away personal details of his or her clients is not necessary a fraud. Psychics often follow strict rules of

client confidentiality. As a result, you may not get references from an online psychic all the time. However, you will be able to see testimonials from previous customers.

Contact the online psychic reader

You can definitely

get an online psychic reading done, but it is best to call psychics up and personally talk to them before choosing their services. Now, it is important to note that some psychics do charge on a minute or hourly basis, even if you are just calling them up for an enquiry and not for booking an appointment or a psychic reading.

Whether or not you shortlist such psychics is up to you, but it is better to go for those who do not mind talking over the phone and answering certain questions from potential customers.

Investigate the source

Let’s assume you have a list of psychic readers that you are going to contact. Now, what questions should you ask when you call them up? The idea of this enquiry is to find out more about the psychic and examine if he or she is the real deal.

Ask how long the psychic has been practicing, whether they are a clairvoyant, clairaudient, or clairsentient psychic, and if the psychic sessions are recorded. Find out what exactly they can read and what their motivation is. The last two are really important, especially in a field as unique as psychic reading.

You also have to ensure that the psychic reading is not completely motivated by money. The reason for this is that even good psychics that are out there for money can end up baiting customers. For instance, they may tell that the customer is under a really evil influence, and the procedure to rid them of it will cost a lot of money.

Author Bio

Jennifer is a freelance writer who writes article on psychic reading. She also helps her clients in giving free online psychic reading.

People rarely get time to sit around reminiscing as a form of entertainment these days, but it’s a really worthwhile activity every now and again. The great thing about sitting down and contemplating the past is that it often gives couples and families the opportunity to really learn more about one another.

A reassessment of values

The fact is that the fast past of the information age makes it difficult for people to slow down and have fun without all the crazy distractions of modern life. It often takes a reassessment of values for people to sit down and listen to a few records, go through old photographs, enjoy baking and other crafts or even just read a book.

The trouble is that these activities are too frequently mistaken for ‘doing nothing’ in the modern era that is so hooked on computers and social networking. Reminiscing over photographs, keepsakes and the contents of all those archive boxes up in the loft is seem as something idle – something that you only do when you at the absolute loosest of loose ends.

The nostalgia of former days

However, that reassessment of values hinted at above does actually take place on a regular basis for a lot of people – particularly those who didn’t have things like computers and social networking when they were kids. People in their twenties and above know what it’s like to grow up without mobile phones and to enjoy a life at a slower pace. As such, they often yearn for those activities that aren’t so fast paced. They are bewitched by the nostalgia of former days and love traditional crafts and hobbies.

Why else would things like craft clubs, baking clubs, vintage fashion, film photography and other things that are, to all intents and purposes, ‘out of date’ gain in popularity?

That’s what appears to be happening. It’s fashionable to enjoy doing the things people used to do before the information age took over.

Dig out the memories

If you imagine that you don’t have the time to get in the loft and sort through all your old things then there’s every chance you’re mistaken. Is it really worth keeping up with television programmes and other time-consuming things that don’t really help you to learn about yourself or the people you love?

Much of that time could be spent digging out the archive boxes and sitting down on a rainy afternoon to look at one another’s old school projects, old drawings, old love letters, little keepsakes and souvenirs from holidays with the family, records, sporting awards, special toys, scrapbooks and, of course, the many physical photographs from the days of film cameras that are so much more rewarding to search through than computer files.

Why not stick some music on, make a couple of drinks and set aside the whole afternoon or evening to chat and reminisce? It’s all too easy to let go of the past but when it’s boxed away in your own home you always have access to it.

There’s certainly nothing wrong with taking an interest in your own past and in the things that have contributed to make you the person you are today. What’s more, it’s incomparably to see your husband, wife, girlfriend, boyfriend and anyone else you hold dear to you do the same.

Laura Bell has all her memories packed away in archive boxes from tradesystems.co.uk and she and her boyfriend often share the stories associated with them on rainy afternoons.

For many years I never “embraced” crystals and stones as having any real importance.  After all, many people had labeled them along with pyramid power as part of the flakey end of the New Age.  I did think they were pretty, though, and was happy when my sister Celeste bought me a nice Icelandic quartz crystal.  And I was sad when I mislaid it somewhere.  I bought another one and mislaid that one too.

Finally Celeste took me to a crystal shop where I bought a third one, and I said something to the clerk to the effect that I was getting tired of losing track of where I put these, and in fact I should pay her right away before I forgot that as well.  Celeste was in another part of the store, hadn’t heard what I had just said, and returned with a book on the meaning of crystals.  “This crystal [the quartz] is said to help with memory.”  We got a good chuckle out of that “coincidence” and left the store to go to her place.

When we got to Celeste’s apartment, I lay down in the living room while she was elsewhere looking for another crystal and stones book.  Then I balanced the quartz crystal on my forehead.  I had no idea why I was doing that; it just felt right.  Shortly Celeste reappeared, quoting her book, “Some people like to lie down and put this crystal on their forehead.”

How to explain this?  Was I using my ESP precognitively to predict what she was going to read?  Had I contacted the book directly by clairvoyance?  Was it some other strange type of synchronicity?  I will say that I commonly get synchronicities in pairs, as if I am so skeptical that the universe has to hit me with it twice (in this case, with two books on crystals).

That was before I had heard of Emoto’s studies of ice crystals and other scientific attempts to study stones and crystals in this way.  I still don’t know much about them, but I like to buy ones I’m attracted to (or that “speak to me”), and all three of my offices have desks decorated by pretty ones.  And now I have more respect for the possibilities and try to keep an open mind instead of rolling my eyes.

Charles Emmons is a blogger, sociologist and the coauthor with his wife Penelope Emmons of Guided by Spirit: A Journey into the Mind of the Medium and Science and Spirit: Exploring the Limits of Consciousness.