What is Jet Gemstone?
Even into the modern day, the origins of Jet are mysterious, since the name is often applied to natural material with similar appearances and chemical makeup, despite those materials forming through various different processes. For example, Mindat, a widely respected compendium of knowledge about mineral, rock, and crystal specimens, lists Jet stone as a hydrocarbon, while Britannica lists it as a subbituminous coal, and other sources list it as lignite that has undergone carbon compression, or sometimes as fossil wood. Despite all these different methods of creation, and the inherent differences this can cause from stone to stone, the consensus on Jet stone is this: Jet is deep grey to black, and can be waxy to glossy in appearance depending on quality and level of polishing. It has a high carbon content, leading many to compare it with Shungite, except that Jet is more lightweight and even softer than Shungite, scratching readily.
Jet Gemstone Meaning and Properties
Jet gemstones have been found in Bronze Age burial sites in Britain, and were used in ornamentation, as well as to make buttons for clothing. This association with the grave is likely what made Jet stone jewelry a token of grief and mourning, worn by those still deep in sorrow for lost loved ones. Today, Jet gemstones are associated with cleansing, purification, spiritual protection, and clearing negativity. Believed to encourage thinking before action, wise decision making, and problem solving, Jet is used by those seeking to break habits, escape negative cycles, and move on from toxic relationships. In this way, the Jet stone has become a talisman of positivity, peace, and spiritual healing. Carrying a Jet gemstone in a pouch or cage pendant is believed to protect against evil eyes, ruminating thoughts, and anxious energies since the gem is known to behave like an angel on our shoulder, helping us to see the good and cast off what doesn't serve us.
How to Cleanse Jet Gemstones
Jet stones are extremely soft, as they range from 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. For this reason, Jet is extremely easy to scratch and should not be submerged in water long-term, as this will cause the gem to soften even further. We always suggest using a Selenite tile or Full Moonlight exposure when cleansing crystals, since these methods will not cause any damage to your stones. Smoke Cleansing with Sage, Palo Santo, Incense, or dried herbs is another safe way to cleanse your Jet gemstone.</