A Guide for the History, Meaning, Metaphysical Uses, Purposes, Crystal Healing, and Properties of the Jet-Black Gemstone
Jet provides a strong foundation of support while stimulating your natural psychic abilities to foresee important decisions and situations that impact your personal life.
What Is Jet?
Jet stone has been referred to as "black amber" in the past. People today describe “deep black” as “jet black.”
Note that jet is an organic gemstone and not a mineral. It is formed from old wood that experienced high pressures. Although it is not quite like amber, it does have a similar history in that it has been traded and used for jewelry or talismans for centuries.
Us and the Stone
Some people have been named after the well-known jet stone with some popular variations, such as “Jett.” It is a short and powerful yet uncommon name that deserves more use. Like many gemstone names, however, “Jett” fell out of popularity after the Victorian era.
Jet has also been associated with the name Julius. Julius is a powerful name associated, of course, with the one-and-only Julius Caesar. Julius is also commonly associated with Pope Julius II, also known as the Warrior Pope, another figure of immense power.
Jet has additionally found popularity in the rock scene, as Joan Jett remains the cool Queen of Rock.
Jet has planetary influence with Saturn as well, and despite its relationship with power, it actually signifies sorrow if found in a dream. Nonetheless, it remains a popular gemstone, particularly among men.
Jet jewelry and figurines have a rich tradition with various traditional forms that had a strong presence in the 19th century. The Victorians had their love of stones, and jet was certainly no exception.
It had been used for funeral jewelry and was especially worn during mourning (source: https://www.gia.edu/whitby-jet-reading-list). This is none too surprising, since black is commonly associated with mourning.
Jet is also said to signify sorrow, and it was used in the past for grief healing.
However, more typical kinds of wear and style were popular, too. The traditional forms of Jet jewelry and figurines includes all the typical stuff, like pendants, rings and statuettes. However, rosaries and prayer beads weren't uncommon. These forms have stood the test of time and continue to be significant in the world of Jet jewelry, showcasing the enduring beauty and cultural significance of this mineral.
The value of the jet stone, much like many minerals, is determined by several key properties, including color, cut, luster, and authenticity. In terms of color, jet stones can range from brown to black, with the most valuable ones being the stark black varieties. Additionally, some jet specimens may exhibit the natural wood structure they originated from, adding to their uniqueness and value. When it comes to the cut of jet, it can be shaped into faceted designs or carved into intricate shapes, with the intricacy of the carvings requiring a higher level of skill. Common forms of jet jewelry include cameo and intaglio carvings, as well as options like cabochons, beads, and inlays.
Where is Jet Found?
Jet, a unique variety of coal known for its deep black hue, can be found in several countries around the world. While Whitby in England is renowned as a primary source, jet is also discovered in Spain, France, Germany, Poland, Turkey, and Canada. In the United States, it's primarily located in Colorado and Utah.
In contemporary jewelry, jet is crafted into beads, cabochons, and various decorative items. It is prized for its striking black color and is often paired with turquoise and red coral to create stunning jewelry pieces. Native American artisans, in particular, incorporate jet into jewelry and ceremonial artifacts, maintaining a tradition that highlights its cultural significance. Its distinctive identity as one of the rare organic gemstones continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Premier Source of High-Quality Jet: Whitby, England
Whitby, a charming town nestled on the northeastern coast of England in Yorkshire, has long been renowned for its unparalleled quality of jet. This precious fossilized wood, which has been prized for centuries, has its origins in a Jurassic Period saltwater swamp, approximately 180 million years ago.
Historical Collection of Jet
The systematic collection of jet from the beaches of Whitby dates back to as early as 1500 B.C. Over time, it gained significant popularity, particularly among the Romans, who sought after the opulent material for various uses.
One unique aspect of Whitby jet is how it finds its way to the shore. The North Sea, with its tumultuous storms, plays a crucial role. These storms erode the seabed, bringing fresh deposits of jet onto the beaches, allowing for continuous collection.
Utilization Through the Ages
By the 19th century, jet had transitioned from a collectible curiosity to a cornerstone of Whitby's local economy. The 1870s marked the pinnacle of jet jewelry's popularity in England. During this period, Whitby emerged as an industry hub, with over a thousand locals engaged in various stages of jet processing and trade.
Craftsmen transformed the jet into intricate cabochons, beads, and decorative objects, which found eager markets not only across the British Isles but also in Europe and North America. Some of the most valued pieces were those retaining the shape of original tree branches and trunks, coveted by collectors.
In summary, Whitby stands as the primary source of high-quality jet, backed by a rich history of collection and craftsmanship that has captivated cultures around the globe.
What are the Physical Properties of Jet & The Mohs Hardness Scale
Jet, a distinctive type of coal, is known for its unique physical characteristics. On the Mohs scale, which measures mineral hardness, jet ranks between 3.0 and 4.0, making it the hardest form of coal available.
Jet can be divided into two categories based on its formation environment: hard jet and soft jet. Hard jet forms in marine settings, while soft jet develops in freshwater or lacustrine environments.
Distinguishing Features of Jet:
- Appearance: Jet is opaque and offers a uniform, fine grain.
- Texture: It has a waxy to velvety luster.
- Workability: This material is easily carved, allowing for intricate designs.
- Finish: It polishes well to achieve either a subtle matte or a striking high sheen.
These properties make jet a favored choice for jewelry and ornamental carvings, providing both visual appeal and functional versatility.
What Makes Jet Unique Among Coals?
Jet stands apart from typical coal varieties due to its unique structural and chemical characteristics. Unlike conventional coal, which is primarily influenced by pressure and heat over time, jet is significantly affected by its geochemical surroundings. It typically forms in an organic-rich shale environment.
Key Differences:
- Absorption of Organic Compounds: As jet forms, it absorbs oils and hydrocarbons released from decaying algae and plankton within the shale. This process imbues jet with properties distinct from other coals.
- Durability and Structure: Unlike the brittle nature and pronounced fracture patterns seen in other coal forms, jet is less brittle. This results in a smoother, more cohesive texture that is highly valued, particularly in jewelry crafting.
In essence, jet's formation in an organic-rich setting, coupled with its distinctive absorption properties and structural resilience, sets it apart from other coal types.
How is Coal Formed?
Coal formation, a fascinating geological process, starts deep within the earth with layers of plant matter accumulating over time. This organic material becomes buried and is subsequently compressed under additional layers of forest growth and sediment. In an environment devoid of oxygen, these plant layers undergo coalification.
During this transformation, elevated temperatures and pressure play a crucial role. They drive out water and volatile substances, leaving behind a concentration of carbon. The end product is a combustible rock known as coal.
What are the Commercial Grades of Coal?
Coal is categorized into four major commercial grades, which vary based on the time they’ve been buried, and the heat and pressure they’ve endured. These grades differ primarily in their carbon content:
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Peat
- Description: Often referred to as a precursor to coal, peat is recognizable by its brown, crumbly texture.
- Carbon Content: Approximately 25% carbon.
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Lignite
- Description: This is the next stage in coalification, where increased pressure and time transform peat into lignite.
- Carbon Content: Contains 30 to 40% carbon.
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Bituminous and Subbituminous Coal
- Description: Commonly known as “soft coal,” these types feature a greater carbon content.
- Carbon Content: Ranges from 40 to 90% carbon.
- Hardness: Rated at Mohs 2.0-2.5.
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Anthracite
- Description: Known as “hard coal,” anthracite represents the final and most mature form of coal.
- Carbon Content: More than 90% carbon.
- Hardness: Mohs 2.5-3.0, making it the hardest type among commercial coals.
Each type of coal serves various industrial and energy production needs, showcasing the diversity of uses derived from this fascinating natural resource.
Jet Stone Meaning, Metaphysical Properties, and Uses
The meaning behind jet stone has to do with its ability to swallow up negative energies with ease. As such, this cool-looking stone also remains a popular gemstone for cleansing, motivation, decision-making, and positivity.
The Wrap-Up
Jet stone is organic, strong, and influential. Some love it because of its association with power, and some love it simply because it looks and sounds cool.
Jet and other crystals and gemstones are nature's true beauties, but keep in mind that they are not a substitute for seeking professional medical, legal, health, or financial advice. Crystals and gemstones are to be used in conjunction with any professional care you are receiving and do not provide healing, cures, or other remedies that modern medicine can provide.
The information provided in our listings with regard to the powers of crystals and gemstones at Crystal Gemstone Shop are all derived from personal and professional experience with crystals and gems, as well as ancient wisdom and texts documenting knowledge gained from civilizations around the world. They are not backed by the FDA or scientific/government resources.
Our crystals and gemstones are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease or malady. Our crystals and gemstones are also not a replacement for seeking professional legal advice, financial advising, or any other field of professional expertise. Crystals and gemstones are intended to be appreciated for their natural power and beauty, all well as used alongside modern, professional methods.
We hope you enjoyed this look at jet stone’s meaning, metaphysical properties, and history!