Amber is a solar stone, closely associated with the healing and energizing power of the Sun. For many centuries it has been considered one of the most potent magical gems and it is a favorite of witches. In many covens the High Priestess wears a ritual necklace made with alternating Amber and Jet beads. Amber represents the 'masculine' polarity of energy (Yin), Jet represents the 'feminine' polarity (Yang).

The Chinese first recorded the idea that Amber was formed from drops of Dragon's blood which solidified when they hit the ground; the fiery, organic gemstone has been associated with Dragons ever since. Meditating while gazing into a piece of Amber is said to stimulate visions of Dragons and glimpses of ancient knowledge. Dragon's are believed to look kindly on anyone who offers them Amber as a gift and might even answer their questions (though this particular dragon always answers emails, no Amber required :)

In Norse Mythology, Amber is sacred to the Goddess Freya, whose magic girdle 'Brisingamen' was carved from the stone. It was widely used in sex magic to encourage passion or fertility. The Romans believed that as well as provoking desire, an Amber talisman protected the body from physical harm, so Gladiators would often carry such a charm for protection in the arena.

Amber holds within it the power of magical attraction and it can be used in charm bags, worn as jewellery or held when meditating or praying to draw good things into your life. In some parts of Britain Amber is known as a 'wishing stone' - rub a piece vigorously between your hands while making your wish and it is sure to come true.

Crystal healers often use Amber to regulate electrical energy and help heal the central nervous system and believe it is healing to the chest and throat; oil of Amber is still used today as a rub for such problems. When treating mental illness, Amber is believed to help a patient overcome eccentric behaviour, anxiety and indecisiveness. Most healers agree that Amber's warm, welcoming energy and inner brightness lifts the spirits and can help relieve depression or speed recovery after illness.