Navigate life’s troubled waters like a Viking!
Ahhh, Icelandic Spar. A stone believed to be deeply rooted in the Nordic mystique, and today, I’m thrilled to share the arrival of this enchanting crystal in my mailbox! 📦💎 This Icelandic Spar holds a captivating history, woven into the very fabric of Viking navigation—a tale of mythical “solar stones” guiding seafarers through tempestuous seas.
The ancient sagas weave tales of Viking navigators relying on a mysterious “solar stone” to find their way through dense clouds. While physical remnants of these stones remain elusive, recent discoveries hint at the possibility that these mythical tools were more than mere legends.
In 1592, an Elizabethan shipwreck unveiled a piece of Icelandic Spar crystal, believed to be a potential solar compass for the Vikings. This crystal, acting as a polarised lens, could have enabled them to locate the Sun even in the most challenging weather conditions.
Recent research conducted by Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary delved into various crystals, including calcite, cordierite, and tourmaline. The goal was to assess these crystals’ ability to locate the Sun amid clouds. Calcite emerged as generally accurate, while other crystals displayed specific advantages in particular times or locations.
The magic lies in the calcite crystal’s asymmetric structure, bending light at different angles. This process filters out scattered rays from clouds and splits direct sunlight—a phenomenon akin to the functionality of polarised sunglasses. This ingenious solution allowed Vikings to determine the Sun’s location, even on cloudy days.
Imagine the skill and knowledge involved! Viking navigators utilised these crystals alongside engraved timber discs as calculating tools, guiding their ships safely to harbours. It’s a captivating blend of mythology and science, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity of our seafaring ancestors. 🛶🌊
Transitioning into the realm of Nordic Mindfulness, the Icelandic Spar becomes more than a beautiful artifact—it transforms into a symbol of focus, resilience, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges. The Vikings, deeply connected to nature, remind us to discover our inner compass, just as they did with their mythical solar stones. đź§
Curious about its close-up details? The crystal appears similar to a normal quartz but boasts a delightful heaviness. And unlike the quarts, when exposed to the sun, it creates mesmerising rainbow colours! While the one I purchased may not be clear enough for navigation, its size makes it perfect for meditation.
In the spirit of Viking navigation and the symbolism of the Icelandic Spar, how do YOU tune into your own inner compass? And what more practices can you cultivate to ensure its unwavering guidance in the ever-changing seas of our personal journeys?
🌿 I Frid (In Peace), Madelaine