This is a gorgeous Cherry Blossom Agate crystal pocket/palm stone. Shown next to a US quarter coin for size comparison. This particular piece has a cute small Druzy lined VUG on one side. Vugs are natural formations, sometimes also known as "crystal cave inclusions", and considered highly collectible.
Cherry Blossom Agate AKA Sakura Agate AKA Flower Agate has pink-ish and orange-ish tones accented by floral or feathery looking inclusions of cream or white colored minerals. They are sometimes called "plumes" or "plume formations". It is technically a variety of Chalcedony (pronounced kal-sydney), which is the "mother stone" of Agate. To be a true Agate, it would need to exhibit more consistent banding patterns. However the trade name "Cherry Blossom AGATE" is now widely used and generally accepted. Some specimens do contain small areas of banded Agate inclusions inside them - but not on a large scale.
Besides the vugs, there are small organic spots throughout. They can resemble small fine lines or tiny indents/pinpricks and you can feel them subtly as you run a finger over them. ALL inclusions present in this piece are 100% natural. It's much nicer 'in person' than the photos show, I guarantee it.
It weighs about 1.2oz and measures approximately just over 1 1/2" inches long X 1 1/4" inches wide at the widest point. Code-040924-807
Cherry Blossom Agate AKA Sakura Agate AKA Flower Agate is a stone that assists with contemplation, self-reflection, and cultivating gratitude. It assists in balancing mind+body+spirit and promoting harmony. It is a very calming energy. In Japanese culture, the Sakura (Cherry Blossom) symbolizes both life and death, beauty and mortality - all simultaneously. Their splendor is fleeting, and nature's cycle must continue. They should be appreciated, cherished, and loved while they are present, then honored in our memory after they fall from the branch. The cycle will begin again. Beauty will come again.
Cherry Blossom Agate helps us to see and appreciate the beauty within and around us. It is excellent for meditation, helping let go of that which no longer serves us at this time, and quiet the mind. If the traditional image of cross legged and eyes closed meditation is not your "thing", it can also be used visually. Gaze into the depths, trace the intricate formations with your eyes (and/or fingers), and let your mind clear and re-focus.
In Crystal Healing it is used to alleviate depression, and promote overall positive mental health.
It is associated with the Heart and Root Chakras.
Native legends speak of crystal skulls as an inheritance from ancient times. Said to “talk and sing” they are believed to carry messages for all mankind, including what may be discovered when we overcome our fear of death.