Alunite or alum stone is dominated by potassium and aluminum salts. Mineral deposits are formed in the surface layers of the soil under the influence of high temperatures typical of volcanic formations. Pure crystals with the formula KAL3 (SO4) 2 (OH) 6 are transparent, distinguished by white and gray shades. In some cases, sodium and iron can act as impurities, which paint alunite in red-brown, yellow and green colors. The stone is characterized by a frosted or glassy gloss, reaching to the nacre. It is a soft and brittle mineral that is easily scratched, crumbled and broken, has a moderate cleavage and a conchoidal fracture. The properties of alunite are known to mankind for many centuries, but the scientific discovery of the stone occurred only in 1824 in the Lazio province of Italy. From the French name Alun translates as "alum". Mineral deposits In small quantities, alunite deposits are located throughout the world, but on a large scale, mineral extraction is carried out only in eight countries of the world. In Russia, development is being conducted in the territories of Transbaikalia, the Amur Region and in the Urals. Volumetric deposits are located in the USA, Italy, Spain, France, Australia, Iran and China. Mineral deposits are found in Azerbaijan and Ukraine, but their deposits are isolated.
Magical properties of Alunite:
Alunite is endowed with a unique magical power that can balance energies at all levels and harmonize not only the inner world, but also the atmosphere in the house. The stone has long been called the “philosophical”, “angel's wing”, believing that with its help one can gain wisdom, emotional balance and protection from the negative. The stone helps the master to return from the world of dreams to reality. For girls, he acts as a loyal assistant in the search for a groom, and he helps men in his career. This is an effective amulet that will protect the house from quarrels and misunderstandings, the evil eye and damage. The stone is placed in a corner so that its energy is evenly distributed throughout the room. Alunit is a loyal assistant for motorists, so when you go on a journey, the driver must take the crystal with him. It will protect not only from fatal accidents, but also from fellow travelers with unseemly intentions.
Medicinal properties:
Alunite has long been used by healers and folk healers as an antibacterial agent. It cures skin and fungal diseases, and also has a detrimental effect on genital infections. In the last century, the salt stone was recognized as the official medicine in Europe and Asia as the best treatment for thrush, herpes, and vaginosis. For this, women were recommended to use special vaginal sticks made of alunite. In China, it is considered the best contraceptive. The healing properties of alunite can be used by allergy sufferers, pregnant and lactating women, children. It is absolutely safe and does not cause side effects. With the help of tinctures on the stone and lotions, you can improve the condition of inflamed skin in adolescents, eliminate swelling and itching, which are a consequence of insect bites. The properties of the stone are used in dentistry, in particular, for the treatment of gum disease and their prevention. Alunite is an effective hemostatic and astringent, wounds after stone treatment heal faster. Saline mineral powder is used to prevent foot sweating. Use of alunite The salt stone is used in different vital spheres and branches. Due to its ability to neutralize odors and antibacterial effect, alunite is used in its pure form as a deodorizing agent. It is able to eliminate the sharp odors of garlic, onions, fish and bleach containing chlorine. To do this, the kitchen work surface and hands are rubbed with a solution infused on the stone, and the knives are temporarily placed in ground powder. In industry, alunite is used to isolate alum, potassium salts, and alumina. In the leather industry, the mineral is used as a tanning agent.
Due to its softness and compliance to stone processing is used in the jewelry industry. A cabochon-treated transparent alunite has a beautiful brilliance and a pronounced optical effect. Opaque crystals are unevenly colored and combine several shades. Alunite is inserted into rings, pendants, pendants, earrings and bracelets that look expensive and beautiful in a frame of silver or gold. Also made of stone crafts, souvenirs and decorative elements.
Alunite as a Stone Deodorant:
Alunite crystals have an effective deodorizing property, so they are used as natural antiperspirants. The action of the salt stone is not to block perspiration, but to neutralize harmful microorganisms that cause an unpleasant odor. In addition, the crystal deodorant has other beneficial advantages: The natural origin, as well as the absence of preservatives and emulsifiers allow the use of the crystal for pregnant and lactating women, allergies, without danger to health; The stone has no smell, so it can be used in combination with perfume; In the composition of the crystal, there are no essential oils, when used on clothes there are no traces; It is a universal hygienic product that is used for cuts, insect bites, after shaving and when carrying out cosmetic procedures; Crystal deodorant is economical: one small stone lasts for several years of constant use. To use a deodorant, it is enough to moisten a stone and to wipe problem areas. Some attribute the disadvantages of deodorant to the need for its frequent use, but its use does not require special preparation, and a small crystal will not take up much space in a purse. Alunite crystals belong to soft and brittle minerals, so they can break when mechanically applied or fall on the floor. But this small drawback can be turned into an advantage, using stone crumbs in the home or as a powder for the feet. You can also make a deodorant spray from the fragments by putting the crystals in a bottle of water.
Key terms: potassium alum small amount sulfate mineral natural alum 15th century alum crystal sulfuric acid astringent properties