A Ndebele tribesman first discovered amethyst cactus quartz while digging a foundation for a house in Boekenhoutshoek Farm, South Africa in 1986. Soon, commercial collectors caught wind of the find and, wanting to keep the source of these valuable stones secret, dubbed them “Magaliesberg Quartz,” after a popular trekking area 70 miles away. In many circles, the misnomer stuck.
Also called spirit quartz, faerie quartz, or porcupine quartz, these stones contain many tiny sharp crystals formed around a larger hexagonal crystal. The Book of Stones describes cactus quartz as a “hundred voice choir singing in harmony.” The main crystals form when silica-laden water crystallizes inside a host rock. The distinctive cactus-like druzy forms later, in a second crystallization period.
Quartz is well-known for its power as an amplifier. In this form, the tiny cactus crystals form perfect raised triangles or “record keepers” that are believed to store wisdom, ancient knowledge, and the very secrets of the universe.
Spiritually uplifting, cactus quartz brings freedom from fears, discourages negative thinking, and detoxifies the body. Commonly worn by women who want to become pregnant or have a safe pregnancy, its resonance encourages bonding in the home, and can also help ease the pain of losing a loved one.
Use it to connect directly to your heart chakra, and it will bring awareness and clarity, and help manifest your goals and dreams.