History Of Asterite
Historical background of Asterite
Use in Lapidary Work and Ornamental Objects Asterite, particularly the more attractive and durable varieties, has been used extensively as gems and in ornamental carvings. The town of Bhera in the historic Punjab province of the Indian subcontinent was known for finishing a relatively pure form of green serpentine obtained from quarries in Afghanistan into lapidary work, cups, ornamental sword hilts, and dagger handles.
Architectural and Decorative Stone Asterite has a long history of use as an architectural stone due to its attractive appearance, ease of cutting, and ability to polish well. It has been used in various architectural applications and ornamental objects throughout history. However, its use has decreased partly due to concerns about potential asbestos content.
History Of Asterite
Gemstone and Personal Adornment Asterite gemstones have been used for personal adornment and sculpture throughout history. They have been utilized as a source of magnesium and in asbestos, and various asterite minerals have been used in architecture for thousands of years.
Mineralogical Significance Asterite is a subgroup of magnesium, asbestos, and silicate minerals formed in Serpentinite rock. It commonly crystallizes in various forms and colors, including light and dark greens, brown, yellow, white, and grey. Commonly known Serpentine minerals that have been independently verified include Asterite, Lizardite, Atlantisite, Greenstone, and Infinite.
Cultural and Artistic Representations The term “Asterite” is also associated with fictional and artistic representations, as seen in the context of illustrations for J.M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens,” where the “Fairies of the Serpentine” is a notable reference.
Geological Significance Asterite rocks, formed deep within the earth’s mantle, have unique flora adapted to survive severe hardships of drought, heavy metals, and nutrient stress. The Klamath-Siskiyou Mountains of northwest California and southwest Oregon are the largest serpentine area in North America.
The historical background of Serpentine encompasses its use in lapidary work, architecture, personal adornment, and its mineralogical and geological significance. This multifaceted history reflects its enduring importance in various cultural, artistic, and practical contexts.
Myths And Legends About Asterite
In Greek mythology, the name “Asteria” or “Asterie” is associated with a daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe, and the sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, she had a single child, a daughter named Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft.
Additionally, there are myths and legends surrounding the aster flower, which is derived from the Greek and Latin words for star due to its distinct shape. The aster was revered as a sacred flower by the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who often decorated shrines with it. One legend from the Cherokee tells of two sisters fleeing from warring tribes, who sought the help of an Herb Woman blessed by the gods with the power to brew powerful potions. After looking into the future and seeing no escape for the two young women, the wise Herb Woman used her power to turn them into flowers, and thus the aster was born.
These myths and legends contribute to the rich cultural and historical significance of the name “Asteria” and its associations with stars and divine powers.
The Origins Of Asterite’s Myths
The myths and legends surrounding Asterite have diverse origins, drawing from various cultural and historical contexts. In Greek mythology, the name “Asteria” or “Asterie” is associated with a daughter of the Titans Coeus and Phoebe, and the sister of Leto. According to Hesiod, she had a single child, a daughter named Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft.
The association of the name “Asteria” with stars and divine lineage is evident in these myths. Additionally, the aster flower, from which the name “Asterite” is derived, has its own myths and legends. Derived from the Greek and Latin words for star due to its distinct shape, the aster was revered as a sacred flower by the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who often decorated shrines with it. One myth from the Cherokee tells of two sisters fleeing from warring tribes, who sought the help of an Herb Woman blessed by the gods with the power to brew powerful potions. After looking into the future and seeing no escape for the two young women, the wise Herb Woman used her power to turn them into flowers, and thus the aster was born.
History Of Asterite
These myths and legends contribute to the rich cultural and historical significance of the name “Asteria” and its associations with stars and divine powers, as well as the symbolic and supernatural beauty of the aster flower. The diverse origins of these myths reflect the human inclination to explain natural phenomena, cultural traditions, and the origins of the world through storytelling and symbolism.
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