Collection: Garnierite (green moonstone)

Garnierite, also known as nickeliferous serpentinite, is a magnesian rock containing significant deposits of nickel. Its name was given to it by the mineralogist Jules Garnier (1839–1904), who identified it during a trip to New Caledonia. This stone forms in ultramafic areas, which represent 3% of the planet and contain heavy metals that are harmful to health if they end up in crops.

This stone is primarily composed of serpentine, a magnesium silicate mineral. However, it is distinguished by its high nickel content, which can account for up to 40% of its total composition. Other metallic elements such as iron, chromium, and cobalt are also found.

Garnierite has a fibrous or flaky texture. Its color varies from green to brown depending on the amount of nickel present and the nature of other impurities. Due to its high nickel content, this stone is an important source of this metal. Nickel is widely used in industry, particularly in the manufacture of stainless steel, rechargeable batteries, and other technological applications.

Chemically, garnierite is characterized by its reactivity to hydrochloric and sulfuric acids, releasing sulfur dioxide in the process. This acidic property is a key aspect of its processing in nickel extraction. Metallurgical processes use acids to dissolve the nickel contained in garnierite.

Garnierite mining involves processing large quantities of ore to obtain significant amounts of pure nickel. Extraction and processing technologies must be efficient to enable economically viable mining.

Garnierite has an orthorhombic crystal system and occurs as fibro-radiate or massive crystals. It has a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which classifies it as relatively hard. For comparison, diamond has a hardness of 10, the highest on this same scale.

No legend or myth evokes garnierite in Greek, Roman, or Egyptian mythology. In fact, there is no story associated with this stone. It is especially prized in the world of gemology due to its incredible properties and its nickel content.

The main deposits are located in Madagascar, New Caledonia, Russia, China, North Macedonia, South Korea and Ukraine.

Garnierite is often associated with emotional and mental well-being, symbolizing inner harmony and balance. It is valued for its connection to emotional stability, helping to cultivate a more peaceful and centered state of mind.

Traditionally, this stone is considered a symbolic support in times of questioning, promoting introspection and personal reflection. Some believe it can accompany a journey towards self-understanding and the healing of past emotional wounds.

Garnierite is also seen as a source of inspiration for adopting a positive and optimistic attitude, helping one to look to the future with confidence. It is often used as a reminder of the importance of self-esteem and motivation to achieve one's goals.

Valued in spiritual practices, this stone is frequently incorporated into meditation sessions and is seen as a symbol of openness to personal transformation and making important decisions.