In India, white opal is believed to be formed from the milk of sacred cows. Having spilled onto the ground, it is absorbed into the deep layers of the soil, hardens and comes out in the form of stone. Of course, this idea is far from reality, but another Indian belief is beyond doubt. It says that the crystal has magical, healing properties. In order for them to work, the wearer must be among those who are suitable for cacholong.
Colors and types of stone
Classic cacholong is an ornamental base stone, a close relative of precious opal. More often found white or colored in shades of milk. Mother-of-pearl inclusions are common. Greenish and bluish specimens are less commonly found. The shades of the specimen are determined by the presence of impurities.
Inclusions of iron, manganese, and calcium change the light shade of the mineral to:
- orange;
- reddish;
- yellowish;
- black;
- brown.
Cacholong does not shine, but shimmers, like a glass surface.
Opal cacholong - a valuable ornamental stone
There are three types of gems:
- opal, containing the mineraloid opal (white, porous, light-scattering);
- chalcedony (impenetrable, rich white);
- woody (appears during the interaction of a mineraloid and wood residues).
The properties of cacholong ornamental stone depend on the chemical composition of the sample. Geologists count hundreds of variations of shades. Many white samples are cast in different colors, most often lilac. Unusual colors are more often characteristic of chalcedony cacholongs.
The peculiarity of cacholong is the ornament of black stripes.
There are minerals:
- black is the most expensive;
- fiery - translucent, colored in shades of wine, cherry;
- boulder - a ferruginous layer in the rock;
- waxy, colored with a yellowish tint of wax;
- hyalite, which forms in the form of transparent clusters, often on lichens and mosses;
- Chrysopal is an apple-green, opaque variety.
Milk cacholong is used in jewelry
How to distinguish a real cacholong from a fake
Natural cacholong itself is not always of impeccable quality.
If there is an admixture of calcium carbonate, stone products are prone to cracking, since swelling occurs when moisture gets on them. If, for example, a ring with such an insert is left even for a short time in an environment with high humidity, it will very quickly lose its quality. To test the gem, it is applied to the tongue. At the same time, calcified cacholong causes a stabbing sensation and seems to “stick” to the surface of the tongue. Counterfeits of natural cacholong are often made from glass painted milky white. It is possible to distinguish such an imitation by the nature of its shine: natural samples, when the angle of illumination changes, change the reflective characteristics, glare appears on them, since the mineral inside has a heterogeneous porous structure.
Physico-chemical characteristics
Geological descriptions of the mineral mention the following parameters:
- hardness 5.5-6.5;
- high fragility;
- opacity;
- porosity;
- ease of processing.
The breed is called:
- Kashilon;
- river stone;
- pearl agate;
- a beautiful stone;
- semi-opal.
In some legends the name “Milk of the Sacred Cow” is found.
Structurally, the mineral is considered a hydrate of silicon dioxide. The rock is a combination of opal and chalcedony, similar in structure, capable of merging over time into a single mineral formed by calcium and impurities. Cacholong is harmed by water. Its effect is more destructive, the higher the percentage of calcium carbonate in the sample. Moisture is the source of the yellowish tint that depreciates the specimen.
Cashillon beads are damaged by water
Half opal
Components
Cacholong is also called semi-opal. Scientists have not been able to determine whether it is a substance or a mixture of several components. Therefore, the stone was classified as a mineraloid, as an amorphous natural formation.
In terms of basic physical and chemical properties, cacholong is no different from opal. Consists of silicon oxide and hydrate (water). The impurities also contain iron, calcium and manganese in combination with oxygen. Details in the article “Opal stone: properties and who is suitable for it.”
Special Features
Polished stones exhibit a glassy sheen. The colors are milky, often with pearlescent tints. Because of this feature, cacholongs constituted a separate species.
The presence of calcium carbonate impairs the properties of semi-opal with respect to water. Its stability is reduced. And if moisture penetrates in large quantities into the structure of the stone, then its surface becomes yellow, and no cleaning will help. The plaque will remain forever.
Kinds
The basis of cacholong is porcelain-like opal, and its components are quartz and chalcedony. The similarity of the structural structure of the listed components makes it possible to easily penetrate each other if these natural substances are nearby. The unification occurs over hundreds of years in shallow soil layers.
There are chalcedony and opal types of cacholong. Affiliation depends on the percentage of components.
Digital indicators
The hardness of cacholong does not cross the line of 6.5 units. When light rays pass through, the color of the stone does not change; there is no play in the edges. But on the other hand, the ability to absorb light energy and then produce a white glow, that is, luminesce, is observed. The density of semi-opal ranges from 2 to 2.2 g per cubic meter. cm.
Cacholong in history
Cacholong is a stone known to mankind for thousands of years. It was highly valued in eastern countries. Preference was given to the dairy variety.
Origin of the name of the mineral
Scientists are not sure of the origin of the modern name, but there are two versions:
- Kalmyk, from the words “river” and “stone”;
- Mongolian, from the word “beautiful stone.”
The Turkic name "kashilon" was transformed into a modern word in India after the conquest by the Great Mongols. The Turks believed that opal appears if a drop of a sacred river falls to the ground. The Hindus transformed the legend to suit their beliefs.
Semi-opal has been known to mankind for thousands of years
Cacholong in the culture of different countries
Ancient people highly valued cacholong. Hindus believed that the milk of a sacred cow falls from the udder and hardens into stones. Amazing gems appeared only in cows that lived in Buddhist temples. Women believed that miraculous stones simplified childbirth.
The Egyptians associated the gem with the god of fertility, the bull Apis. The deity appeared from a moonbeam and symbolized longevity and impeccable health.
The Mongols associated the whiteness of the breed with the sacred lotus. The stone symbolized purity and innocence.
The ancient Romans were the first to make figurines, boxes, and dishes from cacholong. From ancient times to the present day, cacholong has been used to make jewelry and home decor. In the Middle Ages the material was used in Florentine mosaics.
Europeans appreciated the beauty of the sacred cow's milk in the 18th century. Wealthy people bought interior decorations and home decorations made from minerals. These items had social significance and emphasized the status of the owner.
Pearl agate deposits are places where dense forests once grew
The way to Russia
The ancient Romans were not sentimental, but they appreciated the beauty of cacholong. Noble nobles bathed in luxury, decorating their rooms with figurines made of pearl opal. Considering that large stones are rare, vases and glasses were only inlaid with decorative elements. The richest allowed themselves to decorate the walls.
In the same way, over time, the rich inhabitants of Medieval Europe used cacholong stone. Furniture decoration with cacholong inserts was added. In Florence, craftsmen created panels that were hung on the walls in the houses of the nobility.
Cacholong came to Russia in the 18th century, ancient books tell about it. Here the use of stone did not differ from how other peoples used it. Considering its frequent occurrence in nature in the form of thin flat pieces, carvers prepared decorations for walls or furniture from it.
Mineral deposits and mining
The gem is found quite often. Large deposits are found in:
- Iceland;
- India;
- China;
- Mongolia;
- Kazakhstan;
- Armenia;
- Russia.
In our country, cacholong yields are being developed in Transbaikalia and Siberia, Stavropol, and Kalmykia.
About half of the total volume of cacholong is mined in Australia.
Historically, pearl stone was obtained in Asia. Gradually the mining area expanded; Outlets have been found on all continents. Cacholong appears from organic matter, wood, and plant remains. It is formed in an area where there was previously a lot of water and certain conditions of pressure and temperature were observed. Deposits are especially rich in areas formerly covered with dense forest.
Deposits of beautiful stone began to be developed in Asia
Effect on men
As a symbol of motherhood, cacholong extends its influence to the male children of Mother Earth. The stone softens too harsh features in representatives of the stronger half of humanity. At the same time, it helps lonely and indecisive men to feel confident.
According to unwritten laws, the husband is the breadwinner in the family, but it is not always possible to find a good job or overcome laziness. In these cases, cacholong is the first assistant. A talisman with a semi-opal pearl will first create inner harmony in a person, extinguish possible outbursts of anger and aggression, and then help him find himself in the profession.
By developing the owner’s intuition, the stone will suggest the right decisions during money transactions and increase the desire to earn money. As a result, the breadwinner will fully justify his title, managing to provide for his family financially.
Where is the mineral used?
Milk stone is a material for decorative products, interior items, and jewelry. The jewelry industry uses varieties that are resistant to moisture. The samples are ground, polished, and set with silver. Popular ones decorated with gems:
- earrings;
- beads;
- pendants;
- rings;
- brooches
Some varieties of the mineral are more suitable for decorative items. The surface of cacholong resembles porcelain, sometimes shimmering with pearl tints. Cacholong is used to make vases, figurines, decorative elements, and tableware. They decorate furniture with it.
White stone is used by lithotherapists.
The ancient Romans made vessels from the mineral. In palaces, the rock was used to decorate the walls. Busts and sculptures were made from it.
In Tsarist Russia, mosaics, bas-reliefs, cups, and furniture decorations were made from cacholong.
The volume of stone extraction has been decreasing over the years, and the scope of application is narrowing. Now cacholong is in demand in the jewelry industry, lithotherapy, and the manufacture of decorative items. Thanks to its delicate color, the breed regularly attracts the attention of leading fashion houses. They decorate dresses, bags, shoes. In the 2021 Vhernier collection, the public saw a bag with a handle made of gold and cacholong.
Kashilon is valued by jewelers and fashion designers
How to wear jewelry with cacholong correctly
A ring with the milk of a sacred cow helps girls find a life partner. Esotericists recommend wearing jewelry on the left hand, hinting to others about the lack of marriage obligations. The ring suits the ring finger, which is associated with romance and personal happiness. A ring with an opal received as a gift from a loved one is a sign of his readiness for family life.
To feel the beneficial properties of the breed, just wear jewelry. To ensure that it retains its quality longer, follow the operating rules.
- The rock changes color due to moisture pollution. To avoid yellowing, store the product in a dry place.
- The decoration is regularly cleaned of dirt and negative energy. It is enough to rinse the item in running water. For severe contamination, use a soap solution and a soft cloth. If cleansing does not help, do not wear the product.
- The power of cacholong jewelry grows in autumn, winter, and Friday.
The best companion for Kashilon is silver.
River stone is beautiful in combination with silver
Origin
There are many legends associated with the origin of this unique creation of nature. Since cacholong belongs to the opal family, everything associated with this stone also applies to it. However, several unique legends have been invented about it by different peoples of the world, emphasizing its properties and beauty.
The Mongols considered this stone sacred and made stunningly beautiful lotuses from it, which were considered a symbol of chastity and virgin beauty. The Indians considered this stone sacred and kept it in temples, since, in their opinion, it was nothing more than the frozen and petrified milk of cows, which are considered a sacred animal in this country.
The Egyptians found a lot of such stones and brought them as gifts to their gods - it was believed that the stone helped to gain happiness, health and material independence. He contributed to the wealth and satiety of his master. And, of course, various figurines, furniture parts, dishes and much more were made from it as a building material.
We check the cacholong for authenticity
Only natural stone has value, magical, healing properties. To determine the authenticity of a sample:
- Place the specimen in direct sunlight. Natural stone has a dull shine and barely noticeable shine.
- They touch the stone with their tongue. The sensation is reminiscent of touching iron - a slight sticking.
- They conduct an experiment with water. The mineral is hygroscopic. When kept in moisture for a long time, it swells slightly. Possible damage to the structure.
- Examine the object from different angles. Natural semi-opal glitters beautifully, the radiance changes depending on the lighting. Plastic and glass fakes look the same under any conditions.
It is impossible to imitate the original mesh pattern formed by black veins.
The chalcedony variety is counterfeited more often. Doubting the authenticity of the specimen, they show it to a jeweler for expert evaluation.
Sometimes cacholong is made:
- howlite;
- marble.
Howlite is identified by spots and veins. The surface of the cacholong is homogeneous. The milk of the sacred cow differs from marble in its cryptocrystalline structure.
When checking a specimen of atypical coloring, be sure to inspect the area near the hole. It makes it easier to determine if there is a layer of paint.
Cacholong is characterized by a translucent whiteness, uncharacteristic of other breeds. The surface of the sample is soft, matte, reminiscent of enamel, porcelain.
Identifying a fake pearl stone is not easy
How to care
Half-opal is damaged by moisture. Prolonged interaction with water or being in a room with high humidity destroys the structure and the rock crumbles.
Cacholong jewelry is wiped with wool, after dripping olive oil. Avoid ultrasonic cleaning, the influence of chemical reagents, and cosmetics. Prolonged exposure to the sun leads to fading and loss of decorative qualities.
When worn for a long time, the product darkens. To restore its former beauty, it is wiped with olive oil.
Every month the jewelry is washed with the milk of the sacred cow with soapy water, rinsed with running water, and wiped with wool.
Cacholong is not a very hard mineral, so it needs to be protected from friction and shock. Careless use leads to chips and cracks.
Half-opal is stored separately from other jewelry. Use an individual box with soft upholstery or a textile bag.
The surface of the semi-opal is fragile, the stone breaks easily
Application and care of cacholong
The mineral is quite rare, so products made from cacholong are either jewelry or expensive one-piece souvenirs. Deposits rich enough for stones from them to be used in industry are currently unknown.
White opal should be cleaned with soapy water, avoiding aggressive chemicals.
Jewelry is usually made from oval or round pieces. The mineral is framed only in silver, which emphasizes its noble hue. Most often they make earrings, bracelets, and beads. Sometimes pearl opal is combined with jasper or turquoise, which harmonize with it in color, as well as from an energetic point of view.
If you want to use the stone for lithotherapy, be careful. Only pure gems have healing properties.
To ensure that your amulet lasts as long as possible, preserving the magical properties inherent in cacholong, follow simple rules for caring for it.
- The stone is fragile, and proximity to other jewelry can damage it. Therefore, it must be kept in a separate case, or simply wrapped in soft cloth.
- Protect your jewelry from impacts, friction, and shocks.
- Cleaning and washing pearl opal using chemicals is strictly prohibited; simple soapy water is sufficient.
- From time to time, wipe the gem with a cloth soaked in olive oil.
Price
The price depends on the quality and rarity of the product. Handmade collectibles are more valuable. Serial, mass production costs less.
Average price:
- a set of ear jewelry and a ring in a silver frame – 6-7 thousand rubles;
- a set of ear jewelry and a pendant in a cupronickel silver frame – about 3,000 rubles;
- bracelet – about 1,500 rubles;
- collectible figurine – 5,000 rubles.
A personalized ring set in gold, made by a qualified jeweler, costs at least 55,000 rubles.
The price of products made from Kashilon depends on the type of mineral and processing method
Rules for using white semi-opal
In order for cacholong to fully demonstrate its healing abilities, we note several important rules. Buy the stone on the 18th day after the new moon. You can wear the jewelry 4 days after purchase.
Don’t wear cacholong all the time, give it and yourself some rest. In the case of the ring, alternate between the right and left hands, but the finger should always be the middle one.
Before putting a necklace or beads on your neck, wear the jewelry on your hand for several days, changing them. The alternation rule also applies to bracelets.
The effect of white semi-opal intensifies in winter and autumn, and the best day of the week to wear is Friday. When ordering jewelry individually, remember that, like all moonstones, cacholong does not tolerate unnecessary jewelry refinements. This reduces his mystical and healing powers.
Men are most affected by a piece of cacholong in their pocket, not in jewelry. However, in rings and bracelets with a silver frame, the stones do not lose their magical and healing influence.
Magic properties
Half-opal frees consciousness, expels unnecessary things, and helps in meditation. It symbolizes pure thoughts and good intentions. The mineral is not suitable for black magic; it will not help an evil, selfish person. Kashilon is a source of peace, tranquility, peace in the home.
The ancient Egyptians believed that the mineral made the owner healthy, strong, and resilient. The breed's magic is powerful, but soft and safe. Milkstone is recommended for pregnant women. They believe that semi-opal improves one’s financial situation, helps one find harmony with oneself, and cope with aggressive impulses and anger. It develops intuition and helps to find the right solution.
Esotericists advise single girls to find cacholong - it will help them find mutual love. In the east, a sample of the breed is given to newlyweds. A copy is placed near the marital bed for a month. He will ensure peace in the house and many children.
Cacholong stone is perfect for public figures. It is recommended to lawyers and teachers. Jewelry with semi-opal awakens psychic abilities. They protect from dark energy and negativity.
The peak of magical power occurs in autumn-winter.
Half opal resonates with divine energy. To stimulate conception, a small specimen is buried under a willow or fruit tree during the full moon. The breed helps professional mystics, psychics, and adepts of magic. The stone is useful for people working with water. The precious black variety is recommended for hypnotherapists, specialists in regressive memories, and shamans.
River stone - an assistant in meditation
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
Astrologers associate Cacholong with the Moon and Venus. Compatibility is determined by zodiac sign.
It is not recommended to wear jewelry with the stone for Aries and Scorpios, who are patronized by Mars. This warlike planet constantly sends its energy to its wards, which does not fit well with the soft nature of the Moon and Venus. As a result, the mineral causes harm: it aggravates deficiencies and leads to stress.
Representatives of other zodiac signs can wear the stone, but there are some peculiarities:
- Most of all, cacholong loves Taurus, especially women. Even if these people have shortcomings, the stone helps the owner find harmony.
- Thanks to the mineral, Pisces develop natural intuition and magical abilities. Often, representatives of the sign discover the gift of healing.
- The gem is useful for Gemini. These restless people become more balanced, organized and self-confident.
Therapeutic effect
Kacholong helps pregnant women, women in labor, and young mothers. It accelerates conception, activates lactation, and treats diseases of the reproductive system. For easy childbirth, the amulet is worn at the level of the abdomen. The amulet reduces menstrual pain and eliminates depression.
Cacholong will help with male impotence.
For treatment, stone infusions and powders are used. Greenish specimens will provide the best help with reproductive problems.
During intense physical activity, white, milky samples will help. For the post-operative rehabilitation period, a figurine made from the milk of a sacred cow is recommended.
Pearl stone cleanses the body of toxins and improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Cacholong is useful for:
- overweight;
- metabolic problems;
- fertility;
- increased eye pressure;
- stress;
- insomnia;
- cold;
- lung diseases;
- unstable pulse.
Pearl Agate Helps Cure Fertility
Healing properties of white opal
Cacholong is primarily a feminine stone. It helps to get pregnant, relieves PMS and painful periods. For ladies of advanced age, the mineral makes menopause easier. There are also other healing properties of white opal, which are also suitable for men:
- improvement of emotional background;
- the ability to saturate the blood with oxygen, which causes a rejuvenating effect;
- normalization of contractile function of the heart;
- removal of toxins and heavy metal salts from the body;
- the ability to treat the stomach and intestines.
Cacholong also helps to restore strength after intense physical activity.
The importance of cacholong stone for humans and their health was known back in medieval India. It was ground into powder, which helped both men and women. This remedy is known even now, primarily as an aphrodisiac.
It is believed that crushed gem helps to get rid of impotence in the stronger sex and frigidity in the weaker sex. Unfortunately, this method of treatment is not suitable for everyone. If you have weak kidneys, it is better to avoid the “miracle powder”: it can lead to the formation of stones.
Combinations with other minerals
Cacholong enhances magical properties:
- rhodonite;
- lapis lazuli;
- malachite
Pearl stone is beautiful in combination with all types of quartz. Preferred varieties are smoky, pink, hairy.
Jewelers combine cacholong with turquoise. Stones of a delicate light color are often used. Greenish and bluish varieties of cacholong are good to accompany them.
In appearance and magical properties, semi-opal is combined with white agate and dendro opal.
Kashilon is a universal stone that can be combined with all rocks and metals
Soft magic
All nations of the world noted the influence of the stone on women. Cacholong magic is considered soft, feminine and at the same time strong. Therefore, the stone is especially useful for females during pregnancy. Being in the mother's belly, the child, under the influence of positive energy, is calm and protected.
The effect of a talisman with cacholong helps to carry and give birth to a healthy baby without any problems. The influence is based on the white color of the stone, which initially gives bright thoughts and feelings to anyone.
Love magic is also subject to cacholong. An unmarried girl or a lonely older lady can use the stone to attract a soul mate. Men's attention will not ignore any woman wearing white gem jewelry.
