History and origin
Alunite has been known for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian papyri, Babylonian cuneiform and the works of the Roman writer Pliny the Elder described this stone with amazing antiseptic properties and bore several names: “red stone” or “sour stone”.
Mineral Alunite
In ancient Eastern medicine, alunite was widely used and revered for its miraculous properties. And after its deposit was discovered in Italy in the 15th century, alunite crystals and powder began to be used not only as a disinfectant, but also to treat many diseases.
But the mineral received its name relatively recently - at the end of the 18th century in France. “Alun” is what geologists called this amazing stone. And the translation of the French name is prosaic and indicates the chemical composition of the stone - “alum”.
How to identify a fake
Cheap but sought-after alunite is counterfeited. Instead of natural mineral, they offer plastic or glass.
The characteristics of the stone help distinguish a real mineral from a fake.
You can do this in two ways:
- scrape off part of the crystal and immerse it in water: the alunite will dissolve;
- try it “on the tooth” or lick it – natural salty alunite;
- hold in your hands: rapid heating means a fake.
It is better to buy the mineral at a pharmacy or natural cosmetics and perfumery store. Authenticity is especially important if it is intended to be used as a healing or magical remedy.
Place of Birth
The natural antiseptic is not a rare mineral - both large and small deposits of it are found in Europe and Asia, North and South America and even in Australia. It is surprising that almost no alunite is found on the territory of ancient Egypt and Rome.
Large deposits of stone are located in Russia in the Middle Urals (Tochalny Kamen village), Primorsky Territory (Dalnegorskoye village) and in the Amur region, as well as in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Ukraine. Extensive deposits are located in the USA and Italy.
Extraction of the mineral is simple: from alunite ore, which does not lie very deep. It is crushed, fired and further processed.
Physical properties
The physical and chemical properties of the stone are determined by its crystal lattice. The nature of origin of the mineral is mountain-volcanic - at high temperatures.
Property | Description |
Formula | KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6 |
Hardness | 3,5 — 4 |
Density | 2.59 - 2.9 g/cm³ |
Specific gravity | 2,6 — 2,8 |
singonia | Trigonal (axial) |
Kink | Uneven in aggregates to the point of splintering |
Cleavage | Good for {0001} |
Shine | Glass |
Transparency | From transparent to opaque |
Color | White, gray and yellow |
Chemical composition:
- 20-21% Al2O3;
- 41-42% SiO2;
- 4-5% Fe2O3;
- 4.5-5% Na2O + K2O;
- 22-23% SO2;
- 6-7% H2O.
Potassium and aluminum in its composition create antiseptic properties. And impurities of iron and sodium add color shades to transparent or milky alunite: red, gray, white, yellow and green.
“Sour stone” is fragile, soft, easily scratched and crumbled, the surface is matte or glossy. If you lick the mineral, you can feel a slight salty-sour taste. It has no odor and does not lose its properties for a long time.
Alunite dissolves well in cold water, losing its shape and turning into a jelly-like mass - “burnt alum”, used in the paper industry.
Varieties of mineral
Depending on the color, alunites come in several types:
- The pure crystal is milky white (to light grey) or transparent. Depending on the deposit, it may acquire a pearlescent luster.
- If there are impurities of iron, manganese or sodium, the mineral acquires yellow, orange, red and green shades.
- Rare blue alunites are found.
- Minerals with the “Alexandrite effect” - the ability to change color depending on the lighting.
Areas of application of stone
The properties of the mineral have been known to man for a long time, and therefore it is used in many areas of human life:
- In medicine. The hemostatic and healing properties of the stone have been noticed for a long time and have been used in folk medicine since ancient times. In China, to this day, women use it as a contraceptive, placing candle crystals in the female genital tract before intimacy with a man (they reduce sperm activity). But in the 20th century, alunite powder began to be used in traditional medicine - in antiseptic ointments and drops
- At home. The mineral neutralizes unpleasant odors: fish, garlic and onions, rotting organic matter. To do this, it dissolves in water, a cloth is soaked in the substance, and the smelly surfaces are wiped with it. The same solution can be used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent.
- In industry . In paper production, for the production of alumina, potassium salts and alum.
- In magic. Symbolizing two principles: yin and yang, the stone is actively used in the East as amulets and for rituals aimed at balancing all energy on Earth.
- In jewelry. Due to its unusual appearance, it is used in jewelry and talismans.
- In cosmetology. The crystal has light tanning, whitening and disinfecting properties, so it is used for facial cleansing, for the care of oily skin, and for the treatment of acne and pimples.
REFERENCE! After use, the mineral must be dried, but not in the sun. Under its rays, the crystal lattice of the mineral changes, and it becomes even more fragile.
What is a mineral
Alunite is almost pure potassium alum. These are substances consisting of double salt structures. They are the ones that give the mineral antibacterial properties and a sour or salty taste.
According to the description, an alunite crystal looks like a piece of ice: the same transparent whitish or grayish.
Jewelers and collectors value specimens with blue, pinkish, and greenish tints. Or nondescript earthy, sandy ones, shining amber in the sun.
Alunite Marysvale
Powdered or crystalline alunite dissolves even with cold water to a jelly-like substance. It is called burnt alum and is used in the production of paper and pharmaceutical products.
Deodorant alunite
Alunite has found its widest use in the production of odorless deodorants made without the addition of chemicals.
This natural cosmetic product is suitable for everyone because it cannot cause an allergic reaction. It is inexpensive from 5 to 8 dollars.
Forms of deodorant release:
- Fifty gram blocks processed with rounded edges.
- Small rectangular pieces in a beautiful box.
- Drop-shaped spheres.
- The traditional shape of a roll-on deodorant is on a round base with a flask-shaped lid.
Deodorant with turmeric from the mineral Alunite
This deodorant can only be used on washed areas of the body that are prone to increased sweating, otherwise there will be no desired effect to get rid of the smell of sweat.
The whole family can use the product because microbes do not linger on the crystal.
Before use, the surface of the alunite should be moistened with cold water and, holding the dry end, rubbed several times over the problem area.
REFERENCE! If a mineral is broken, you should not throw it away. You need to pour water over the crumbs to dissolve them and use them as a deodorizing spray or ointment, but it only works for a day.
The mineral is great for treating sweaty feet. The feet and between the toes simply need to be lubricated with alunite powder or spray. In two weeks the problem will go away.
REFERENCE! You should put small bags of powder in your shoes and walk around with them for a short time. Carry out this procedure 2-3 times.
Rules of care
The mineral is fragile and vulnerable, so you need to take care of it in a special way:
- jewelry must not be dropped or the insert tested for strength; they are not worn in the pool or on the beach, they are removed before doing housework; should be stored in a separate box;
- The deodorant must be dry, placed in a water-impermeable container with a tightly closed cap.
If deodorant falls and crumbles, it can be restored. The crumbs are collected, ground, and poured with water until dissolved. The resulting homogeneous mass will serve as a deodorant spray.
When cleaning jewelry, use a dry soft cloth. Severe contamination is unacceptable: nothing can remove it.
Medicinal properties
The chemicals that make up the stone have pronounced antiseptic properties. Thanks to this, the mineral is used to treat human skin, providing the following effects:
- Antibacterial. Kills harmful microorganisms.
- Calming. Relieves itching and irritation after depilation or shaving of intimate areas and armpits.
- Restorative. Renews skin cells.
- Hemostatic. For small cuts and scratches, having an astringent property, it stops bleeding.
- Drying. The salt in the acidic stone removes excess moisture from the cells of the dermis and dries it out.
- Disinfectant. It is capable of killing harmful bacteria not only on the human body, but also on his clothes.
REFERENCE! Alunite is hypoallergenic because it does not contain harmful substances or essential oils and is therefore suitable for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.
The crystal is used to treat fungus and sexually transmitted infections. In the Middle East, it is still the official treatment for vaginosis, candidiasis and herpes. The mineral is often used for thrush because it can kill up to 40% of harmful bacteria.
“Red stone” is good for insect bites – it helps relieve unpleasant itching and irritation.
The stone has no contraindications, so it can be used by pregnant and lactating women.
Before use, pour a small piece of water for 3-4 hours until completely dissolved and then rub into the skin.
Useful properties: who needs to carry alunite with them?
We have already written above that alunite can stop minor bleeding, so it should definitely be put in the bag of a traveler, athlete or outdoor enthusiast. Excellent help for teenagers who are faced with the problem of acne and teenage rashes. It can also eliminate discomfort in the body, as well as strengthen nails.
As you can see, it has long been proven that alunite is very useful to humans, so you can safely reserve a place for it in your first aid kit or cosmetic bag, especially since this mineral is affordable for everyone.
Magical powers
Endowed with magical powers, alunite is able to bring harmony both to a person’s soul and to his home. A stone located in the corner of the room is able to control the flow of energy in the room, bringing them into a balanced state, filling the house with harmony, peace and happiness and protecting against the evil eye, damage and quarrels.
IMPORTANT! Alunite is considered an angelic stone, so it cannot be stored in places accessible to everyone - it significantly loses its power. And the location in the corner allows the sour stone to be at the crossroads of energy paths and correctly and evenly manage energy flows.
A crystal is simply necessary for people who tend to have their head in the clouds, disconnected from reality. He will add to them prudence and a “sober outlook on life. But at the same time, alunite can relieve stress from people overwhelmed by circumstances and problems.
Alum stones
As a symbol of chastity, the mineral is indispensable in families. To restore shaken family happiness and understanding between spouses, you must definitely purchase it for your home.
The red stone helps single women find a life partner, and it helps men doubly: it brings constancy to relationships and helps avoid betrayal.
It is believed that this mineral can make the cowardly brave, and the modest – decisive.
It also helps in work activities. If you hide alunite in the far corner of your desk or secluded corner, then success and career growth will not take long to arrive.
Drivers love alunite. It protects you on long trips not only from accidents, but also from unkind fellow travelers.
Interesting Facts
- Traditionally in China, alunite sticks were used as a contraceptive.
- Many ancient peoples attributed special properties to alunite to control dark and light energy.
- Traditionally, alunite is used as a talisman and protector against damage and the evil eye. Talismans with it are made in the form of pendants and rings.
Alunite is one of the unique minerals, reviews of which are equally successful in both medicinal and cosmetic terms.
The meaning of the stone for a person
For centuries, people have used the stone both in medicine and as a talisman and talisman. Having a low cost, the stone is accessible to anyone, which means its power can serve anyone who needs support and feels internal disharmony.
Having a miracle remedy on hand that does not spoil, does not evaporate, does not smell, but only fights negativity and disease is necessary in any home. And its owners will feel the effect of the stone immediately.
Talismans and amulets
For many centuries, alunite has been successfully used as talismans and amulets, protecting its owner, his property and home, his family and people close to him.
Alunite is easily processed by hand, so framed talismans with it have been used for a very long time.
Due to its low price and ease of processing, the mineral is used as jewelry (talismans) and whole crystals as amulets for a car or home.
Compatibility with other stones
Each stone, like a person, has its own energy. There are stones that attract each other, creating a positive field. But there are also those who begin to destroy, destroy everything around them and themselves, because they are incompatible.
Alunite is “friends” with turquoise, aquamarine and lapis lazuli because of their light, transparency and similar magical powers. But the acidic stone cannot be used either in jewelry or in talismans, it cannot even be stored next to ruby, chrysolite and malachite - they have different origins and composition, properties and energy.
Jewelry with mineral
For use in jewelry, only minerals that are rare in purity and unusual colors are taken. Although the structure of the stone resembles a diamond, its fragility and softness do not allow the stone to be cut filigree. Even if the cut is successful, the jewelry will not last long.
The stone is often associated with the Moon. This happens not so much because of the name, but because of the milky-transparent color, reminiscent of the moon.
Jewelry with such a stone turns out to be unusual and mysterious. If the mineral is transparent or has a slight blue, green or yellow tint and it has been beautifully cut, then the jewelry can truly become a woman’s adornment.
Most often I combine alum stone in jewelry with silver or gold.
IMPORTANT! Rings with stones should not be purchased, because these jewelry are most susceptible to various types of influences and can be quickly damaged.
Jewelry with alunite is inexpensive. A set of silver earrings with a ring costs from 950 to 1100, beads - from 1400 to 2000, talismans - 400-700, bracelets - 300-500 rubles.
Application of Alum after shaving
Alum stone is used after shaving to relieve irritation, dry the skin, heal small cuts, stop bleeding and disinfect.
After shaving, wet the crystal with water and gently wipe it over your face (avoiding contact with your eyes). Leave on the skin for a couple of minutes and rinse with water.
After use, wipe the stone and store it in a dry place.
Since alunite has an astringent, drying property, its use is recommended for normal and oily skin. For those with dry skin, only topical application to the area of cuts is recommended - with a pencil or gel.
Compatibility with zodiac signs
Alunite, having great energy, can have the opposite effect on carriers of different zodiac signs.
(“+++” – the stone fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated):
Zodiac sign | Compatibility |
Aries | + |
Taurus | + |
Twins | +++ |
Cancer | + |
a lion | — |
Virgo | — |
Scales | + |
Scorpion | + |
Sagittarius | +++ |
Capricorn | — |
Aquarius | + |
Fish | + |
The stone has a positive effect on:
- Gemini. Reveals all facets of character, strengthens the best, develops weak features, instills self-confidence, and helps to reveal creative abilities.
- Streltsov. Smoothes out problems in the family, helps resolve disputes and conflicts, and establishes intra-family connections.
Will bring neither benefit nor harm:
- Aries.
- Taurus.
- Cancer.
- Aquarius.
- Pisces.
- Scales.
- Scorpios.
Some of the signs relate to the water element, which destroys alunite.
Has a negative effect on:
- Lviv.
- Dev.
- Capricorn.
The harmony that this stone brings is often not inherent in these signs.
Their bearers are categorical, tough, always doubting - this is what their life consists of. Disharmony is the element of their existence. And harmony and peace can lead to stress and apathy. Is this stone right for you?
Name compatibility
Alunite is suitable for women with the names Daria, Veronica and Ekaterina. It will awaken the women in them, help them find the love of their chosen one and happiness, care and understanding in the family. In professional activities, the mineral will protect you from intrigue and open up new paths of development.
Men with the names Ivan, Dmitry and Nikita, having a talisman with alunite, will quickly move up the career ladder and have reliable business partners. In their personal life, no one will call them “males,” because the stone will support and develop constancy in feelings and the desire to build their own home filled with love.
Interesting things about the stone
- Man has learned to grow artificial alunite, but the purity of the mineral cannot be achieved, so it is used only for industrial purposes.
- Magicians claim that the stone is able to control light and dark energies
- If a cut occurs while shaving, it should be immediately anointed with an alum pencil. Then you can avoid capillary bleeding and irritation
- The stone cannot be placed on the table surface without a stand, otherwise it will gradually corrode it.
- Alunite is not poisonous or corrosive!
Alunite is unique. It does not have a high value like a diamond or emerald. But people appreciate its amazing healing properties. This mineral is a great gift from Mother Nature to all humanity.
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How to care for the mineral?
Considering the fragility of the stone, you should treat it very carefully (try not to scratch or drop it). It is important to store natural resources in a soft box.
Important! When caring for the product, you must remember that it softens in water. Therefore, you cannot even wipe the jewelry with a napkin soaked in water.
If the product becomes dirty, clean it with a dry cloth or cotton swab.