The Orange River is a natural boarder between South Africa and Namibia. The Orange River originates Drakensberg Mountains and covers a distance of 1800 kilometers through South Africa, flowing through the southern part of the Kalahari and Namib Desert before it exits into the Atlantic Ocean. However in dry years, this river it does not reach the sea. The areas where Orange River crystals are mined are remote and barren. Like the river name, most of the crystals have a beautiful orange glow to them. A vast array of formations have been found along this river such as elestials, lovestar crystals, cascading elestial, with a variety of inclusions including hematite. Sometimes they find completely unique formations, you just never know what will show up. Recently smoky quartz and amethyst crystals have been also found. This beautiful cluster is from Orange River, Warmbad/Skimmelberge region in Namibia.

The energy of these crystals is ancient and very wise. They are gentle but very strong. They have energy that is timeless and endures over all obstacles. These crystals are from one of the most inhospitable areas on the planet, yet something of such beauty can be found there. Most of these crystals have phantoms within them, recording lessons of the past, so that progress can be made. They have a rich history and can instill many life lessons. They are amazing teachers if you take the time to listen to their stories.

Sitting on a bed of white matrix are an assortment of quartz crystals with beautiful amethyst phantoms running through them. Amethyst crystals are a rare find for this area. This group are warriors and they show it on their crystalline forms. While most of the crystals are in good condition, one has several fractures, which has caused one piece of the crystal to completely separate. This piece provides a portable link to the cluster's energy. This is important as the matrix is quite delicate, and several of the pieces are loose. This cluster does come with a display stand (not photographed) so they may sit supported.

What this group may lack in immediate beauty, they make up for in energy. That's not to say this cluster is not pretty for it has its own charm. They are a laid back group of crystals, high in energy, yet very down to earth. They teach you to roll with the punches, to take life as it comes, and not sweat the small stuff.

This shows the crystal that has separated.

The cluster measures 5" x 4.5" x 2" and weighs 1.8 lbs (2lbs with the stand).

Amethyst brings serenity and calm, to enhance one's ability to assimilate new ideas, and to assist during meditation. It is also said to give strength and mental stability, and to provide balance between one's physical, emotional, intellectual states. Amethyst is also said to make one shrewd in business matters. Amethyst is said to help remove toxins from the body and to help treat arthritis. It also said to be useful in treating a number of disorders including those of the digestive system, heart, nervous system, skin and hearing and to help provide relief from pain and to strengthen the immune system.

Amethyst may be used to remove radiation the body stores on the sides of the head...such as from computers and such. Geodes of Amethyst are particularly good for this, just place the head next to it; you will then feel the radiation being drawn out. Place on the 3rd eye and visualize yourself breathing in the color for total mental emotional soothing. It's a very good technique to do in bed before going to sleep. It is an amazing all round healer and also a brilliant meditation crystal. Amethyst can be used for massage in wand, egg or sphere form. It makes a great elixir.

Phantom quartz crystals are said to help one understand the various stages in life that we all evolve through, and they are said to be an excellent tool for meditation and for remembrance of past lives. Phantom quartz is especially good for children, assisting them with learning to meditate. Use phantom quartz during stressful periods, or periods of change to facilitate a more peaceful transition. It is also an excellent stone for assisting with healing from abuse issues. It helps one to see the progress in healing, and identify patterns.