Today, Tuesday 1st February, marks the start of the Chinese New Year – also known as the Spring festival or lunar New Year. 2022 is the Year of the Tiger and the third of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. Each animal is associated with qualities – both good and bad – which are believed to be inherited by those born that year.
Kristin Weixelbaumer from jewellery brand Black Betty says that the Tiger is a symbol of passion, courage, love and energy and the Year of the Tiger brings with it the opportunity to choose gemstones that radiate those same qualities. “In a similar way that wearing your birthstone contributes to enhancing your energy levels and aligning you to your environment, so too will wearing stones that represent the inherent qualities of the Chinese Zodiac Tiger.
She recommends the following precious gemstones:
1. Ruby for passion
Ruby is widely known as the most passionate stone. Rubies represent not only romantic love, but love of self. Its burning crimson hue is said to inspire passion and desire, and brings courage to the wearer.
One of Weixelbaumer’s personal favourites is the Black Betty Wishbone Ruby ring in gold.
2. ONYX and labradorite for strength and courage
Worn on the skin, Onyx delivers vibrations of protection, strength, focus, and willpower. Black onyx also helps to balance yin and yang. The stone can aid feelings of being centred, making wise decisions, and getting to the root cause of issues.
Labradorite crystal is a stone known for not only it’s dazzling shimmery appearance, but also by its ability to encourage wearers to go after what they truly want, without limits.
Weixelbaumer says that after two years of uncertainty and disconnectedness, these two stones are particularly appealing. “Labradorite helps to manifest the wearer’s desires and Onyx delivers vibrations of protection and strength, which together bring about a wonderful energy to enter into a New Year with, full of hope.”
3. Garnet for strength & passion
Garnet is a gemstone of vitality, health and energy, bringing serenity or passion, and even inspiring love. Garnet is considered a lucky stone, for courage, creativity, success, and for business relationships. Weixelbaumer says that this stone supports the letting go of old behaviour patterns and the boosting of self-confidence.
4. Clear Quartz for connection
Known as the seventh chakra stone, clear quartz is known as the master healer. It amplifies the energy, thoughts, and vibrations of other crystals. It’s used for connecting you with your higher self, intuition, and spirit guides.
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