​This morning my thoughts are on copper, as it seems that this special metal has not been receiving its due attention, in comparison to gemstones and crystals. Copper is one of my favorite metals. I love the warmth of it, as well as the oxidized changes as it interacts with its environment. Most of all, I love the way it interacts with my gems and crystals.
A  little background on Copper:
Copper is one atom. It cannot be broken down, and its atomic symbol and number is Cu 29 (numerology number 11). It is a historically used metal so prevalent in  5,500 - 4000 BC that the age is referred to as the Chalcolithic Age.  A Greek word meaning Copper (Chalkos) Rock (lithos). The name copper comes from the Latin word Cuprum which referred to the ancient name of the
island of Cyprus.
Copper has so many beneficial properties. It is essential to the proper functioning of the human body and has long been associated with healing and spirituality. It has been used for pain relief, particularly joints (think copper bracelets) and is also antimicrobial. It also has been historically used
in healing, meditation, and Reiki. It is highly conductive (electrical and thermal). It aids in disrupting the energy of electromagnetic frequencies and lessons the negative effects of such exposure. 
The natural conductivity of copper makes it the perfect metal to pair with the gems. It helps to balance and even out the energy of a gem or combination of gemstones. This creates more stable energy and enhances its vibration.  The metal charges easily and quickly in the sun making it perfect for healing/energy work.
You can work with copper in many ways. Carrying or wearing the copper will harmonize and blend with your natural energy (aura) and you will be able to feel the benefits directly. You can also use a 100% copper mug to gain the beneficial energy from this unique metal. To benefit from its antimicrobial and healing energy, charge your water in it. To charge your energy field, place your hand on the side of the cup as you hold the handle in your other hand to create a natural copper energy circuit.  This is particularly effective prior to doing energy or healing work or when you feel your energy is stagnating or lethargic. 
Having a copper mug also provides a safe way of drinking gem charged water. Reflect a gem into the side of the mug for several minutes. This will allow the metal to pick up and begin circulating the energy of the gem, charging the water with its properties.  Hold the gem in your hand as you slowly sip the charged water from your copper mug. There are many unique combinations and ways to incorporate gem energy with a copper mug, too many to list. For questions on which gems you may wish to pair with the copper mug for the effect you are looking for, or to purchase a copper mug, swing by Charmed in Company and ask for Victoria. 
If you want to wear a copper pendant, I can personalize it by adorning it with gemstones with the energy you need or want to create. I do not wrap on demand, so if you are interested, give me a call or come by the shoppe, so we can talk and you can select the gems you want to incorporate. I will then create the piece and call you when it is finished. 
I hope that you will find ways of adding copper to your collection and begin working with it more frequently. I think once you do you will be surprised it took so long to rediscover it.

It’s almost the New Year which is full of hope and new beginnings; why not draw upon the strengths inherent in your astrological sign to make 2026 an altruistic year for all? Don’t let the holiday cheer and goodwill of Nov & Dec slowly dissipate throughout the course of the New Year.  When times are tough, it may be harder to see aspects in life to be grateful for, but perhaps, as the extras of life are temporarily stripped away, now is one of the best times to find the core of what is truly a blessing. Revel in your strengths and give back to others. Every sign has positive and negative attributes, below are strengths to keep the good vibes going throughout 2026.

ARIES –Tap into your strengths and use your natural optimism to boost others feeling down. Lead through example, not through followers, and be a source of inspiration to those down and out. You are an optimistic pioneer, unafraid to make bold moves forward. Help others be their own leader, be someone’s hero.
Suggested Gemstone: Hematite

TAURUS – Do you know someone who scatters his or her energy? Show them the strength in your natural ability to stabilizing energy and the rewards that can be gained through persistent follow through. Taurus knows that all work leaves little time for enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Help others discover the benefits of relaxation.
Suggested Gemstone: Rose Quartz

GEMINI – A rare gift it is to be able to tap into creativity and enthusiasm. Your versatile and quick wit can reach through the fog and haze of the depressed or uninspired. Tap into your fluid mind and connect with others, tell your tales and many experiences and enlighten others to seek opportunities they might have missed.
Suggested Gemstone: Crazy Lace Agate

CANCER –You can offer the gift of truly listening and understanding people emotionally. Sometimes knowing you are not alone in your feelings is just what one needs. Lend an ear and help someone, or reach deep and give a gift to comfort those less fortunate. You have an amazing memory, perhaps just sending a note might be just the perfect uplift.
Suggested Gemstone: Rainbow Moonstone

LEO - What one may see as a chore you can see as a game. Share your playful views of life; help others remember that the inner child is never truly lost. Be the warmth and vibrancy of your sun sign and brighten someone’s day.
Suggested Gemstone: Amber

VIRGO – Hone your keen and analytical mind to help another look at the details of what may be hindering them. Encourage weeding out the impractical and excessive, to make the most of current situations.
Suggested Gemstone: Angel Agate

LIBRA:  - Although you tend to have difficulty making decisions, you are truly gifted being able to see life from both sides of a situation. Utilize this gift to help bridge the gab between people and situations bringing them to a better, more harmonious place in their lives.
Suggested Gem: Aventurine

SCORPIO – You possess the ability to transform and heal others through your perceptive ability to see the deeper undercurrents of life. Use your gift to make others aware of the talents and strengths they may not know they possess.
Suggested Gemstone: Topaz

SAGITTARIUS – Bring your travels back and allow others to experience other cultures through your eyes. Take a friend along on your next trip and expand their horizons.
Suggested Gem: Turquoise

CAPRICORN – Hard working with a drive for success ensures you many pleasures in life. Be a mentor and show others the way.
Suggested Gem: Obsidian

AQUARIUS –Your social networking skills are off the chart. Help those less adventurous to meet others and see the larger pictures in life
Suggested Gem: Clear Quartz

PISCES – You are a romantic dreamer showing that with a vision of what you desire, you can go far. You have the ability to see the good in people and a natural humanitarian nature. Draw on this strength and share it with others.
Suggested Gem: Amethyst

One thing no one can take is the gift of giving of yourself, taking the time to slightly alter another’s perception in a positive way. It may be through something as simple as a smile, to open a door, give a parking space or chair to someone, an uplifting chat, it doesn’t have to cost anything. Enjoy keeping the goodwill of the holidays alive over the course of this year.  If you are in the area, swing by the shoppe (Charmed in Company, 529 route 9, Waretown, NJ)
Have a Charmed New Year!