Hand-carved angel — Yellow aventurine

A piece carved from the solid block and then hand-polished; the motif follows the natural veins of the stone, so no two examples fall the same way on the design.

A honey yellow to ochre, opaque, animated by the same discreet sparkle as its green cousin.

What tradition says. Tradition attaches it to the solar plexus and to self-confidence; it is credited with a solar, affirmative character.

Where the motif comes from. The figure of the angel, a messenger between two worlds, runs through all three monotheisms and many earlier traditions.

Use & upkeep. A piece for a cabinet, a desk or a shelf, it stands on its own. Dust with a dry cloth; avoid water on pieces with soft veining.

• Its color comes from iron inclusions within the microcrystalline quartz.
• A natural piece: shade, veining and dimensions vary from one example to the next

A decorative object for personal practice. It is no substitute for medical advice or treatment.