Fresh white sage and blue-green turquoise come together in this decorative box. The incense sticks are hand-rolled in India, with the stone packed separately beside them.
White sage for clearing a space
White sage grows on the dry hillsides of California. In the ceremonies of Native American peoples its smoke is used to clear a space. Many people still light it for that reason, in an energetic sense, after moving house, at the end of a big clean or after a difficult conversation.
The sticks smell fresh, green and lightly spicy. If heavy, sweet scents feel like too much for you, this one is fresher.
How turquoise got its name
Turquoise takes its name from the French for Turkish stone, because it reached Europe from Persian mines through Turkish traders. Its colour is blue-green, and the exact shade and veining differ from piece to piece. It is a porous stone that water, creams and perfume can dull, so wipe it dry with a soft cloth.
Turquoise is said to protect travellers and to be a stone of friendship. If you are seeing someone off on a long journey, this box makes a thoughtful gift. The small stone fits easily in a bag afterwards.
With the window slightly open
Put the stick in a heat-resistant incense holder on a stable surface, light it and blow out the flame. Stay in the room while it burns and open a window slightly. When you are done, press the glowing end into sand or ash. You can relight a half-burned stick later in the same way.
Keep the smoke away from children, pets and birds. Store the box closed so the sticks keep their scent for longer.