Vesuvianite was named for Mount Vesuvius in Naples, Italy, by A. G. Werner in the year 1795. It is also known by the names Vessonite and Vasanite. The gem-grade quality of Vesuvianite is called Idocrase.
Minerals of the same composition and structure are also found in Quebec, Canada and various locations in the USA, including Montana, Vermont, and Maine. The colors can range from pale to deep green with flecks, swirls or bands, and can include the colors yellow, red, blue, brown, pink and white.
It is commonly associated with the astrological signs Sagittarius and Capricorn. It is a stone of soothing, restoration and cooperation to name a few of its best attributes for crystal healing therapy.
Photo: Alberto Inrocci
Here are some interesting details from world history to connect with about Vesuvianite, Idocrase and Mount Vesuvius before we get into the metaphysical properties and meaning of Vesuvianite:
At noon on August 24th in the year 79 A.D., the peak of Mount Vesuvius near Pompeii, Italy exploded in an eruption that initially sent a rain of pumice and ash showering down on the city.
The subsequent devastating Mount Vesuvius Eruption occurred 24 hours later and sent a shockwave across the land, believed to be in the equivalent range of a 10-50 megaton nuclear blast. The total explosive power of the eruption was more than 100,000 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb which destroyed Hiroshima, Japan.
As the shockwave touched the city in conjunction with the heavy downpour of ash and volcanic ejecta, the anomaly calcified everything in its path. Pompeii was buried and lost under 14 to 17 feet of ash and pumice and other volcanic material. Over 1,800 years later, artifacts were discovered in the yard of a farmer.
Beginning in 1748, an archaeological dig was initiated to uncover the city after it was rediscovered. The remains of 2,000 citizens were uncovered during the excavation. The remains of the city and its victims remained “frozen in time” as the bodies and relics were were fossilized exactly as they appeared in their final moments. August 24th is known in remembrance as Vesuvius Day.
Tumbled Idocrase
It is said that Vesuvianite is named for its discovery at Mount Vesuvius.
Actually, it was originally was named in 1723 by Moritz Anton Cappeler as, hyacinthus dictus octodecahedricus. A rough translation calls the mineral, “A hyacinth flower of [octo-decahedron-like shape].
In 1772 it was renamed by Jean-Baptiste Louis Romé de L’Isle as, ‘hyacinte du Vesuve’ (Hyacinth flower from Vesuvius). In 1795, German geologist A.G. Werner, renamed the mineral Vesuvianite. A subsequent geologist named the gem-grade version of the stone as Idocrase.
Though the stone carries a name related to Mount Vesuvius, it was not necessarily discovered there first, nor is it the only location that the stone exists. It was only presumably named for its similarities to rock matter abundantly located in the mountainous volcanic region in Italy.
Vesuvianite and Idocrase are members of the Sorosilicate family. Other family members include Epidote and Zoisite. Like its other close family members it is most commonly found in varying shades of the color green with white flecks or swirls but is also available less commonly with other colors in it which can include yellow and purple.
The history of its name which has connections to a major historical event in the past has special significance in modern crystal healing. It is worthwhile to work with its connections in history as well as the following metaphysical properties to facilitate thorough and meaningful spiritual healing:
Center: Vesuvianite Tower
Vesuvianite and Idocrase Metaphysical Meaning and Properties
Vesuvianite is a stone of many chakras. Its energy is very dynamic and quite potent. It translates as uniquely grounding as it does its work with the higher realms. Doing higher realm healing work with this stone shines light on synchronicities, “coincidence”, and serendipity.
The stone is found in locations of “unshakeable foundation.” It carries a humbling power that exerts cooperation and ‘surrendering to change’. Like many other green stones, its nature is supportive through major transition and upheaval. It is especially effective for making peace with impermanence while allowing you to continue to walk firmly on your own new path.
Vesuvianite is a stone of soothing, and of restoration and cooperation. To touch this stone while in tune with its energy is instantly calming. It touches the heart, the spirit and personal truth while allowing one to remain confidently grounded.
Its composition is primarily of Calcium, with secondary Magnesium and Iron. This stone is especially useful for healing any issues related to deficiencies of the teeth, bones, blood and digestive system.
Vesuvianite is surprisingly heavy and dense for its delicate features and composition of elements. I recommend using this stone in conjunction with other volcanic gemstones and minerals. Its cooperative energies will further enhance its own properties and the properties of other volcanic gemstones especially.
Its metaphysical properties are more focused for clearing, cleansing and restorative work than for balancing or energizing. Vesuvianite can be cleansed or charged using most all methods including short baths in sunlight, water or moonlight, and burial in mineral salt or soil.
The more common, creamy colored stones are lovely to work with. The mild and soothing energy of them is intoxicating. The gemmy Idocrase type vibrates with more urgency for grounding.
Other volcanic stones pictured above are olivine, peridot, tektite and obsidian. You can read more about the fascinating history and origins of two powerful volcanic gemstones, peridot and olivine in this crystal healing article.
Blessings of love and healing,
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