CRYSTALS: Vanadinite

QUESTION: hi, i got some vanadinite and i read in the crystal bible that it's poisonous, didn't know what it meant by the indirect method, does that mean i can't touch it? i put it in a ziploc but just want to make sure hahaha

ANSWER: Hi. Vanadinite is like Malachite, the dust can be harmful if inhaled or ingested in large amounts. Small stones will not affect you, but just to be on the safe side, we recommend the indirect method for gem elixirs. The indirect method is done by placing the stone in a glass jar or bowl separate from the water you are infusing. Using dry you should be fine, especially polished pieces which are not as flaky!

Sincerely, 

Sheila Satin 

www.satincrystals.com

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CRYSTALS: Malachite Poison

QUESTIONS: Do you have any good links to get some more information on Malachite? I noticed you mentioned to be careful when using this crystal. Thank you.

ANSWER: Hi! Excellent question, Malachite is only dangerous when it is in fine powder form and you are breathing it in like asbestos. As polished jewelry it poses no danger, but if you have a raw piece, I would not suggest making a gem elixir to drink. Instead, use the indirect method in which you place the crystal in a glass jar and then in the water. In any case, it's only when you work with raw Malachite in large doses for long periods of time like in the mines or a factory that you really need to worry. We do mention it on our site just for you to be aware of this fact!

for a discussion on malachite safety, feel free to check out this link: http://www.pricescope.com/idealbb/view.asp?topicID=37702