Leopard Stone

This is a hard and unusual variety of serpentine from the small mines of Nyanga in eastern Zimbabwe, where its pattern resembles that of leopard's spots. This is a fairly old material used in Shona art carvings.

Serpentine is the name given to a subgroup of magnesium & silicate minerals formed in Serpentinite rock. It commonly crystallizes in the forms of masses, fibrous grains, & flat-like plates. The colors can vary from light & dark greens to brown, yellow, white, and grey. Common Serpentine minerals are Lizardite, Atlantisite, Greenstone, & Infinite. The name was given to this group of minerals in 1564 by Georgius Agricola after the Latin word serpens for its similarity to that of a snake or serpent.

Many civilizations from Antiquity, such as Sumerians, Assyrians, Persians & Egyptians, used Serpentine, including Leopard Stone, to make cylindrical seals. They took advantage of the polished stone qualities that produced a greasy & oily surface, preventing clay or wax from sticking to the seal when applied.

In Italy, from the Roman period to the Middle Ages, sorcerers thought thatsuch Serpentine minerals would protect against snakebites & help to reduce venom.

Leopard Stone is considered a wisdom stone, promoting peaceful living & health. It is said to encourage conflict resolution & personal responsibility. Like Serpentine, Leopard Stone also promotes wisdom & kindness. It aids in meditation & spiritual exploration & inspires the regeneration of both body and soul.