Sweet Dreams are made by Charoite?

Charoite Pendant & Peacock Blue Freshwater Pearls

"Sweet dreams are made of this, who am I to disagree?"

(Annie Lennox/Eurythmics, 1983)

Did you know that sleeping with a piece of Charoite under your pillow calms disturbed sleep and dispels fearful dreams? That's what metaphysical gem enthusiasts will have you believe! 

Charoite was discovered in 1947 in the Chary River area of the former Soviet Union and gets its name from the river. This region known for its harsh climate and terrain was the traditional place of exile for political prisoners. I wonder if prisoners were used to mine or dig for the gemstone? This semi-precious gemstone's value is in the fact that it is found only in this desolate region of Russia.

Charoite & Sterling Silver Bracelet

Charoite was introduced to the western world in the late seventies. It is easily identified by its characteristic grape color, ranging from very light to dark purple along with its black and white mottling. Areas of the stone can range from translucent to opaque. The fibrous crystals found in Charoite give it beautiful swirling patterns, making it one glorious gemstone!

I love the purple color of the gemstone, though it can be somewhat pricey. This is one gemstone strand that is I cannot resist at bead shows. Don't you love it?