This small wand is made of clear quartz, held in silver-tone metal fittings set with tiny coloured stones. One end has a polished crystal point, the other an amethyst ball that turns in its setting. It is 12 cm long and handmade in India.
Two stones, both quartz
Clear quartz is also known as rock crystal. Amethyst is quartz too, coloured purple mainly by traces of iron. So the wand is made from two colours of the same mineral.
In crystal lore amethyst is the stone of meditation, and clear quartz is said to strengthen the stones placed beside it.
A ball you can turn with a finger
The amethyst ball is not fixed rigidly, so you can turn it round in its setting with a finger. During meditation this gives your hands a calm, repeated movement, a little like passing mala beads through your fingers.
Small enough for a handbag
At 12 cm the wand fits in a handbag or a small pouch, so you can take it to a yoga class or a weekend retreat. At home it suits a desk or a small altar.
If you are just getting to know crystal wands, this small piece makes a good first one, as it sits easily in the hand. Because it is made from natural stones, the shade of the amethyst and the clarity of the quartz vary a little from wand to wand.
It makes a kind present for a February birthday, as amethyst is that month's birthstone.
The crystal point can chip on a hard floor, so take care not to drop it. Wipe off dust with a soft, dry cloth and do not soak it in water.