Flint is a very hard but brittle gray or black colored stone which has the distinction of being one of our oldest crystal companions. Flint was an invaluable resource to the prehistoric peoples of Europe, who knapped the stone into axes and arrowheads for sustenance and protection. Thousands of years in the past the first tracks and trade routes began to evolve around sources of Flint, laying the first foundations of civilization.

In some areas of Europe, including Britain, France and Germany, ancient Flint tools and arrowheads can be found in ploughed fields, or scattered across the landscape. These relics, especially the delicate and beautiful arrowheads, have been known for centuries as 'Elf Shot'. Elf Shot was once considered to be a magical gift from the Fair Folk that could be used in rituals to cut through problems and banish anything unwanted, such as illness, addiction or sorrow. Over the centuries perceptions changed, and Elf Shot came to be regarded with fear and superstition. It was said to be a bad omen to find Elf Shot on your lands, portending disease in your livestock and troubles in your home. To be honest, I prefer the earlier interpretation and treat my own little collection of Elf Shot as magical treasures.

Flint is said to hold within it the combined powers of elemental Earth and Fire. It is still used in magical ritual today to banish anything that you want to remove from your life or to cut through fear, illusions and the bonds that tie you to the past. A piece of Flint is a useful magical 'weapon' that can be carried for protection when you are undertaking a dangerous spiritual quest or astral journey.