The Origins of Septarian–aka the Dragonstone

Why is Septarian one of the most unique aesthetic additions in the mineral world? Because no two pieces ever quite look the same—Septarian nodules form in unusual shapes cut in pyramids, spheres and other interesting shapes that shimmer with crystallized minerals.

Also called Dragonstone, Septarian is a unique mix of rock, mineral and organic matter. It is often formed within and carved from layers of limestone sediment. The formation requires a chemical reaction of moistening and drying effects wherever nodules have the chance to seal out of the pockets of empty space in between.

What types of stones are found in Septarian?

• Yellow Calcite
• Brown Aragonite
• Grey Limestone
• White or Clear Barite

Septarian nodules—or as they are technically named “concretions”—are the result of volcanic activity when mud and organic matter are trapped to be sealed by pressure and desiccation (intense drying) in a cemented state, hence the use of the derivative of “concrete”.

History of Septarian

What makes a Septarian concretion so special is the addition of organic matter added into the mix. Septarian nodules formed as a result of volcanic eruptions and compressed matter of Dead Sea creatures. Therefore, the bonds of Septarian nodules are formed in sediment through the “concretion” of mud masses and mixed organic material.

Septarian nodules originate from the Cretaceous period and formed anywhere between 50 to 70 million years ago! That means that they came about around the same time the dinosaurs become extinct.

Septarian Specifics

The name “Septarian” comes from it’s cracked or partitioned look. It is derived from “septum” meaning “partition” as Septarian nodules form mud masses that dry and crack with chambers in distinctive patterns. This reaction is brought about by the chemical bentonite that dries out the Septarian concretion and causes it to shrink.

You will find Septarian nodules can measure anywhere between an inch to a foot across! They often sport a rough exterior on the outside formed from thick chalcedony—or crystalline silica. The pattern of Septarian nodules is distinguished by cracks filled with Calcite (making the yellow center), Argonite (forms brown lines), and Limestone rock (grey shell or exterior). With this combination, the spherical Septarian nodules sometimes look like a baked potato.

What Distinguishes Septarian?

• Chalcedony or Crystalline Silica Exterior
• Interior System of Polygonal Cracks
• Prized Specimens form Hollow Geodes

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Benefits and Uses

Septarian nodules often form a solid stone carried as a talisman of courage and grounding energies. Much of the folklore tied to the Septarian stone explains that it is carried to bestow confidence—so it definitely makes a great amulet for public speakers to hold in hand while standing in front of a crowd.

Septarian is said to help the wearer capture the attention of the audience. Here are some other benefits of this stone in the eyes of metaphysicians:

• Tolerance
• Patience
• Emotional Stability
• Nurtures with Earth Energies
• Relieves Muscle Spasms

You can see why it was once known as the Dragonstone—as it brings courage. Septarian stone also absorbs outside energies to transform this into strength. That is, Septarian’s benefits refer to the lower chakras—those which ground us to the Earth, the solar plexus, the sacral chakra and the root chakra. It brings about a calm by connecting with nature and natural energies.

Septarian Sculptures in Interior Design

Use Septarian Sculptures to enhance the “down to Earth” feel of a room and improve the flow of interior design with natural organic tones. Some will notice that the color, pattern and texture of Septarian give this stone a unique aesthetic appeal. Septarian screams contrast!

The deep colors of the Argonite mix with the Yellow Calcite to bring out the organic and earth tones of a room. Not to mention it forms such interesting shapes and textures—Septarian can be found in cube, pyramid, roundish and oddish shapes alike.

Those who have already incorporated rocks and minerals into interior design know that nature provides an unmatched aesthetic beauty. Exceptional pieces of Septarian not only add organic wonderment, but a true prized specimen with intrinsic value to be viewed!

Conclusion

If you are a rockhound looking to add Septarian nodules to your collection or a designer who is looking for a unique mineral item to achieve an “organic” look, Septarian is always a great choice.

Learn more about Septarian concretions and other rocks and minerals for rock collectors with our free ebook download Rocks 101.

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