Tricolor Cannabis-Themed Beaded Necklace with Gems

Frannie from SpiritClique recently completed her latest art project. We love this fun beaded necklace — just in time for spring! Check out more of SpiritClique’s spiritual lapidary art at the SpiritClique Etsy shop.

My first step was to create the color palette.  I went with a standard tricolor here because I wanted something bold and festive, that would show the gleam of the stainless steel off to its best advantage!

The color yellow has a deeply spiritual vibration that is interpreted in similar ways throughout human culture. As the color we most associate with the sun, yellow symbolizes life, renewal, and community. People with a yellow aura tend to be friendly, strong, and (despite the western’s association between yellow and cowardice) bravery.

Red is often associated with the planet Mars, plus all the strength and creativity that comes with it. In China, red is strongly associated with good fortune. In the western world, we associate it with physical strength, passion, and power. It’s no wonder that people with a red aura have a strong and vibrant life force!

Many cultures attribute qualities like healing, fertility, and relaxation with green. It has been proven that the color green can help people center their thoughts and get to a more logical place mentally. It’s also associated with the earth, plant life, and the heart chakra. Green aura bearers are naturally loving, brought to earth as healers and helpers. Green is a lucky color, combining the energy of yellow and the tranquility of blue. And of course, it’s the color of American money and cannabis — making it a great choice for this project.

These three colors together can symbolize many things. Lots of cultures use this color combination of red, yellow, and green: Pan-African culture, Rastafarian spirituality, Malaysian traditions, as well as the flag of the Lithuanian people. 

As a proponent of medical cannabis and a person of Lithuanian ancestry, this color combo has a special place in my heart! I chose to use lemon-yellow micro beads for this project because I had a lot of leftovers from my ongoing khokhloma project — but also, I wanted the piece to be warm and summery. Plus, making yellow the dominant color in my palette removes any assumption that this is a Christmas necklace. Not that the weed focal isn’t also a huge tip-off. :)

Beads. I chose sunny yellow Czech micro beads (11/0) for this project. And may I say, the 11/0 size is starting to become a fav to work with. :) Green crystal bicones and shimmery metallic Czech glass beads add more body and diversity to the piece. 

Metals. My chosen focal is a cannabis silhouette glyph made of brushed stainless steel. I love using steel in my pieces because it’s tough as hell, easy to care for, and fun to work with. Mars is the planetary correspondence of iron, and it’s also my main ruling planet. Iron is also the metal correspondence of Aries, which is my zodiac sign. And of course, as a daughter of miners, steel makers, and iron workers... it’s a perfect medium for me!

Gemstones. Because I’m working around a cannabis theme, I decided to choose two types of gemstones to represent the two basic weed types: soothing indica and invigorating sativa.

Flanking the cannabis focal are three beads made of natural shell dyed in red, yellow, and green — these are my soothing indica stones. Mother of Pearl is a fantastic choice for organic jewelry. Associated with the moon, throat chakra and solar plexus chakra (especially in yellow and green!), these ethereal shells are also linked with the psychic realm. It’s a wonderfully healing gem for people with anxiety or those who need healing in negativity-filled situations.

My sativa choice just had to be the lively, energy infusing emerald! I added about a carat of emerald beads to the center of this piece, keeping it close to the heart chakra to add all that fab green energy. Emerald is one of my favorite gemstones to use for its fun loving and exciting vibe. It’s the birthstone of May as well as a gemstone of Taurus. It is one of the world’s most precious gemstones (along with diamond, ruby, and sapphire). Many old-world religions strongly associated emeralds with love, more so than virtually any other jewel. And it’s no wonder — the emerald reflects the green power of the heart chakra. Emeralds can help us rediscover passions for people and things that seem a little boring; it helps to heal depression, raise self-esteem, and invigorate the soul.

I also have this piece in a white/blue combination with howlite! But that’s a story for another time.

What Are the Birthstones for Each Month?

Did you know that there is more than one birthstone for each month? Traditional stones were established for centuries. But when retailers got involved to try to increase sales, they invented modern “equivalents” that are based on nothing except what extras they had in stock and wanted to unload.

Tiffany & Co printed a now-famous pamphlet of birthstone poems, which were totally inaccurate, in order to sell more gems. It was full of poems detailing the birthstones and their powers, credited to an “unknown author,” ostensibly someone in the marketing department to cash in on these traditions.

January’s birthstone is garnet.

February’s birthstones are amethyst, pearl, and zircon.

March’s birthstones are aquamarine, bloodstone, and jasper.

April’s birthstones are diamond, sapphire, and mystic topaz.

May’s birthstones are agate, emerald, and chrysoprase.

June’s birthstones are agate, alexandrite, cat’s eye, moonstone, pearl, and turquoise.

July’s birthstones are carnelian, onyx, ruby, and turquoise.

August’s birthstones are carnelian, moonstone, peridot, sardonyx, spinel, and moonstone.

September’s birthstones are chrysolite, lapis, and sapphire.

October’s birthstones are aquamarine, opal, and tourmaline.

November’s birthstones are citrine, pearl, and topaz.

December’s birthstones are bloodstone, lapis, ruby, turquoise, and zircon.

Although most birthstones were pretty well-established by the 1400s, modern jewelers have altered the traditions by inventing new birthstones for the months. There aren’t any real reasons for this spiritually speaking — it was just a marketing ploy to sell more of certain gems. Therefore, don’t worry too much about it. The powers are inside of you, and you’ll intuitively know which crystal should be yours!

Crystal Magick with Cherry Quartz

The pink and red hues of cherry quartz are so beautiful and magical to behold! But it’s more than just a pretty stone.

Cherry quartz can attract love like rose quartz, but with more of a sexual/erotic flair. It also promotes happiness and bursts of creativity. 

Wear it to be the life of the party, or to get inspired!

What are the different birthstones for each month?

Did you know that there is more than one birthstone for each month? Traditional stones were established for centuries. But when retailers got involved to try to influence the sale of certain jewels... the traditions changed. Here’s a list of all the stones which correspond to each month. Enjoy!

January’s birthstone is garnet.

February’s birthstones are amethyst, pearl, and zircon.

March’s birthstones are aquamarine, bloodstone, and jasper.

April’s birthstones are diamond, sapphire, and mystic topaz.

May’s birthstones are agate, emerald, and chrysoprase.

June’s birthstones are agate, alexandrite, cat’s eye, moonstone, pearl, and turquoise.

July’s birthstones are carnelian, onyx, ruby, and turquoise.

August’s birthstones are carnelian, moonstone, peridot, sardonyx, spinel, and moonstone.

September’s birthstones are chrysolite, lapis, and sapphire.

October’s birthstones are aquamarine, opal, and tourmaline.

November’s birthstones are citrine, pearl, and topaz.

December’s birthstones are bloodstone, lapis, ruby, turquoise, and zircon.

Although most birthstones were pretty well-established by the 1400s, modern jewelers have altered the traditions by inventing new birthstones for the months. There aren’t any real reasons for this spiritually speaking — it was just a marketing ploy to sell more of certain gems. Therefore, don’t worry too much about it. The powers are inside of you, and you’ll intuitively know  which crystal should be yours!

Brown Aura

One of the most popular colors of aura bearers everywhere is brown -- and brown auras can come in all shades from the darkest chocolate brown, all the way up to pale, light tans and khakis.

Brown is a warm color within the auric spectrum.  It corresponds to the element of earth and to the Root Chakra and Solar Plexus (since many browns tend to be in the orange and red families).

Keywords to describe a brown aura person would be:  physical, giving, sociable, grounded, friendly, natural, practical, brave, fragile, logical.

A more in-depth analysis of what a brown aura means can be found in my previous entry here.  Many shades of this color are listed, so you can find your specific shade meaning easily. :)

Red Aura

One of the most popular colors of aura bearers everywhere is red -- and red auras can come in all shades from the darkest burgundy, all the way up to light and bright reds.

Red is a warm color within the auric spectrum.  It corresponds to the element of fire and to the Root Chakra.

Keywords to describe a red aura person would be:  passionate, loyal, competitive, loving, aggressive, strong, versatile, powerful, stressful, physical, sexual.

A more in-depth analysis of what a red aura means can be found in my previous entry here.  Many shades of this color are listed, so you can find your specific shade meaning easily. :)

The Magickal Properties of Garnet

Garnets are loved and revered the world over for their breathtaking beauty, their lustre, and their mystical powers.  While they have similar physical characteristics to crystals (such as structural formations), garnets are actually composed of crystal silicate materials that can vary in hardness.  They are found all over the world in a stunning array of shades.  The most commonly known garnet hues are red and pink, but they are also seen in oranges, yellows, greens, blues, purples, browns, blacks, and even clear.  Some garnets even change their reflective color depending on how much light is reflecting off of them.

Because of the common red color of garnet crystal, it is often associated most with the more aggressive emotional moods, such as anger and aggression.  Long ago, it was known as the "warrior stone," as it was carried into battle to protect soldiers and warriors from injury and illness, and to help them come out as the victors in their battles.

Garnets are also often used in love spells, to keep a man or woman faithful to the garnet's owner.  It can also enhance the wearer's sex life, making him or her appear more physically attractive to the one she or he desires. It’s also the January birthstone — and can be used for all birth months as a powerful talisman.

Like most crystals and minerals, garnets have some great healing properties as well.  Garnets are great for detoxifying the body, drawing out negative physical elements as well as bad energies from the bearer.  It is also great for reviving the libido and rekindling emotional passion, not just for sex, but for anything where the bearer feels the need to focus and get down to business.  Try garnets for giving yourself a bit of extra drive in business and personal endeavors as well.

Magickal Properties of the Pearl

Pearls are the gemstones of the sea. Not a crystal but can still be used in crystal therapy. There are various myths that tell the story of a pearl's formation; they are said to have been formed by a tear from Venus, the Goddess of love. However, the truth is that a pearl is made grain of sand or other object manages to get inside the shell of a mollusk (oyster, clam, etc.). The foreign object becomes covered with a calcium substance that is secreted by the animal. Over time, it becomes hard and smooth, with a radiant luster. Pearls come in many shades; the most popular are white, but pink, black, yellow, brownish, and other colors also occur in nature. They are found in bodies of water all over the world.

Because of the pearl's shape and luster, as well as its origin, it is considered to be a gemstone of the Moon. Pearls are also said to have aphrodisiacal qualities and boost feminine powers, as well as ability to make the bearer immortal. Legend has it that pearl powders are a key ingredient in elixirs of immortality as they are a talisman of youth and beauty. Pearls are the gem of choice to strengthen the heart, kidneys, and lungs.

Yellow and green pearls are said to bring prosperity and abundance, while brown hued pearls give their bearers intelligence and foresight. White pearls are worn to give strength, female power, and happiness. All pearls are powerful in blocking the evil eye, curses, and negative energies; they are all also instrumental in enhancing psychic abilities.

Opal and Its Mystical Properties

The opal has a rich and mysterious history behind it.  Many people revere this powerful gem... some are even afraid of its amazing virtues.  The pale milky opal often has a flash of colors within it; some of the prettiest opals actually have sparkling flecks and multicolored facets that can show every color of the rainbow.  The word itself is derived from a Sanskrit word, "upala," which means "precious stone."

It is said that those who are born in its ruling month, October, are doubly blessed to enjoy its powers.  However, those who are born other times of the year -- watch out!  The opal can actually give you the opposite of what you desire, or even be dangerous to you.  Is this legend based in truth?  Read on to find out the whole story.

Opals were actually prized at one time for their other amazing abilities.  One ancient legend has it that a necklace made of opals will prevent blonde hair from darkening or fading into other colors.  Opals were also known as "patronus forum," the patron of thieves, as it was said that opals could make the wearer invisible at will.  Opals are also associated with religious fervor, thought to strengthen the power of prayer and to instill hope in those who wore it.

The opal crystal has healing powers as well.  Like many stones, it has been thought to help ailments of the eye, as well as prevent more serious diseases.  It can also provide its bearer with good dreams, as well as loyalty and love from others.

By the way... that reputation for the opal to be harmful?  Completely false!  The opal's so-called evil reputation can actually be traced to one source only:  A novel called Anne of Geuerstein by Sir Walter Scott is actually to blame for this myth.  A character in the story called Lady Hermione was proven to be a demoness when a drop of holy water removed the color from the opal she wore in her hair (which turned red when she was angry, and sparkled when she was happy) and turned it black.  The opal was then seen as an evil gemstone with the power to harm others.  Within months of the novel's completion in 1829, the value of opals declined significantly as no one wanted to buy them.  But don't let this fictional story stop you.  Enjoy opals -- even if you don't believe in the myths and legends, they're just gorgeous and wonderful gemstones!

Magickal Properties of Turquoise

If you're a unique sort of person who marches to the beat of their own drum, the turquoise might just be your best bet for a personal power gemstone!

The word itself is derived from the Greek word "Turkois," their name for the country Turkey, which was the main source of turquoise in ancient times.  This gemstone is formed by minerals such as copper or aluminum being pressed by the Earth's surface while water drips through the minerals for millions of years.

Turquoise is a mineral with a coloring that's so distinct that the robin's-egg color is actually named after it!  This rich blue-green stone can actually range in color from dark blues and greens, all the way to the lighter sky blue that is turquoise's namesake.  The gemstone is associated with the month of December, and can be found in many parts of the world, including China, India, many parts of South America, and the southwestern United States.

Native Americans consider the turquoise crystal to be a sacred and powerful stone.  In the past, turquoise was often carved into shapes of animals and birds, and placed into tombs as offerings, to attract positive spirits and to keep their dead safeguarded from evil.  Additionally, warriors would tip their bows and arrows with turquoise to ensure an accurate shot during battle or hunting.  The ancient Mayans would also use it to decorate artwork for their temples, forbidding people to wear it as it was revered as a stone of the gods.  In the Middle East, turquoise was used to create religious relics as lines from the Koran would be carved upon it and guilded.

When you are looking for a stone of protection, turquoise is an excellent choice.  It can help to enhance positivity and repel negative forces.  Turquoise is also soothing to the heart and mind, instilling calmness and clarity to a restless or grief-stricken soul.  Legends also say that a turquoise stone can foretell illness; if the bright color fades, it is said that the health is leaving the body of the gemstone's bearer.  When the stone returns to its normal shade, the person's health should return to normal. 

The Three Gunas

Gunas are a concept in Samkhya Hindu philosophy.  The word "guna" is Sanskrit for "string;" it can also mean "single thread of a cord."  They each represent a type of principle or motivation in the human personality. While there are several types of philosophy that refer to gunas, the Samkhya philosophy recognizes three of them: Tamas, Rajas, and Sattva.  Together, these make up the Triguna.

The guna that is known as Tamas (literally translated as "darkness") tends to be a self-centered and slow-moving motivation.  It can be described as apathetic, lazy, and senseless.  Emotions and actions such as hostility, bad reasoning, and self-delusion can often be rooted in Tamas.

Rajas, which means "passion," seems to go toward extremes.  While it is indeed a passionate and active guna, it also has the tendency to go overboard.  Rajas is active, creative, emotional, sensitive, but can also anxiety ridden, overly boastful, and aggressive.

Sattva is translated as "goodness," and this is the guna which one should strive to allow to shine.  It corresponds to our better nature: industriousness, compassion, and focus on helping and caring for others as opposed to material attachments.

It is said that everything in the world corresponds to at least one of these three gunas.  According to Samkhya belief, they are separate entities, yet they are all still somehow attached to one another.  Passion cannot exist without Darkness, which cannot exist without Goodness, which cannot exist without Passion, and so on.  They are a part of each other, while being apart from each other at the same time.

Peridot Power! Its Magickal Properties

A word of caution:  The peridot crystal is only for the most extreme personalities.  If you're interested in harnessing the magickal proprties of this firey, intense gemstone, you'd better be able to handle it!  It is sometimes referred to as "That stone which is the color of Mountain Dew."  And it's true: few things are similar to the delicious lemon-lime color of a peridot.  It is truly a unique stone for many reasons.

The brilliant yellow-green peridot is one of history's oldest gemstones.  The earliest written history of the peridot dates back to about 1500 B.C. in ancient Egypt.  There are some experts who feel that the infamous emeralds which were worn and prized by Cleopatra were actually peridots. 

Most gemstones are formed in the Earth's crust.  This is not true of the diamond or the peridot.  Instead, these gems are formed in the mantle of the earth, and rise to the surface as the mantle is disturbed by various forces of nature.  Peridots are formed higher up in the mantle than diamonds, but both are pushed upward by volcanic activity and earthquakes.

Throughout history, the peridot has been revered as having many different mystical powers.  First and foremost is the peridot's power to shatter and dispel all other enchantments at the bearer's will.  It is unparalleled in its ability to dissolve spellwork -- for maximum potency, choose a peridot which is set in gold.  Its healing properties are also legendary; peridot allegedly has the power to heal asthma, to alleviate fevers, and to help the digestive system work in optimal condition.

Peridots are also thought to alleviate a number of emotional and mental issues, as well.  It can fight depression and anxiety; it's particularly helpful for phobias and panic attacks.   Sadness, grief, and sorrow can be helped by lighter shades of peridot as well.  Peridot can also enhance restful sleep and relaxation.  It can also balance mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, and alleviate self-consciousness and low self-esteem.

The Mystical Powers of Emerald

Emeralds are one of the most beautiful and popular gemstones, having been mined and prized since the ancient Egyptians began to mine them.  They are part of the beryl family; while the emerald is most commonly known as a green stone, the shades of green can vary from yellow-green all the way to a deep blue-green. Only the deepest, darkest colored stones are known as emeralds; beryls of lighter shades are often classified as other types of gemstones.

Emeralds are very rare and valuable crystal stones, revered for their deep luscious color and their mystical properties as well.  As the traditional birthstone for May, the emerald is also associated with the green Heart Chakra and thus can be used in healing the heart, circulatory system, lungs and throat as well.  They are also purported to help with the eyesight, guard against drunkenness, strengthen the digestive system, and counteract poison.  More importantly are the mental and emotional benefits -- inner healing, introducing mental clarity, and increasing perception are all claims by emerald enthusiasts.

Many folks associate the green of emerald with the green of money and prosperity.  However, if you're looking for a powerful stone for love spells, you needn't look any further than the emerald! If it is your birthstone, you're covered as long as you feel the need to wear one.  If not, you can always use your favorite emerald in spiritual workings.  Program the emerald just as you would consecrate and program any crystal that you like to use for rituals, and then wear it near your heart.  An emerald pin would be perfect for this type of purpose, or a tiny chip of emerald that you can wear in your pocket!

"Who first beholds the light of day,
In spring's sweet flowery month of May,
And wears an Emerald all her life,
Shall be a loved, and happy wife."

Magic Properties of Diamonds

There is, perhaps, no gemstone nearly as famous as a diamond -- and certainly none as precious!  These stones are among the hardest in the world, and prized all over the planet for their immense beauty, durability, relevance as a status symbol, and most of all... their power.  Although they are often imitated, nothing is quite the same as a real diamond.

Diamonds come in all types of colors, though white is the hue we think of most when diamonds come to mind.  They also come in all shades of brown, yellow, grey, even pink or red!  Commercial diamonds are often treated to enhance their color or clarity, though it certainly does not detract from their beauty.  Many different colors, shapes, and crystal styles can be created through modern technology.

Many legends and myths surround this awe-inspiring gem.  As an amulet, it is known as the "mother's stone," since it helps to protect the female reproductive organs, the heart, and the circulatory system.  It is also said to protect against all manner of catastrophic issues:  snake bites, curses, fire, poison, illnesses of all types, as well as evil magicks.  Diamonds are virtually indesctructable; they symbolize innocence, purity, and beauty.

As healing stones, diamonds are very useful for reproductive parts of the female anatomy and the heart.  It is also excellent for depression, memory issues, to center and calm the bearer as it strengthens.

Q&A: Best Time to Launch a Website?

I recently got an email asking when would be a good time to get a business off the ground.  The person thought that the new moon might be a good time -- and it is!  But there are other options, as well.


Actually, I might try launching a business during the full moon, when it is at its most potent.  Or a waxing moon, as you gain lots of "acquisition" energy. 

The sun is currently in Virgo, and will be there until the end of this month -- which makes it a great time to handle anything involving communication and technology.  The next sign is Libra, which as an air sign, rules more over the intellect and therefore would be a decent second choice. :)

What 'Unusual' Aura Colors Mean

While most people's auras contain a few different colors, there are also some important shades or patterns that don't really fit the standard mold.  Each aura is unique, and aura patterns can contain many different shades.  Some of these colors are explored here.

It is said that a mixture of mud-colored brown, dark grey, and light pink together have been seen in people with a serious or terminal illness, or other fatal condition.  Try some aura cleansing rituals to soothe and protect your spiritual health too.

Metallic shades are also present in the auras.  Silver streaks or spots are said to represent truth-seekers, or those wishing for guidance from God and other spiritual sources.  Gold indicates an extremely sensitive and highly aware individual.  Copper is usually seen in people who spend a lot of time outdoors or with environmental jobs (forestry, mining, farming).  One person has told me that a zinc-colored hue, which is similar to gold, but lighter in color, is often seen around genitals or sexual organs, but especially during arousal.

Off-white shades and pastels are frequently seen.  While white itself indicates the presence of a spiritual guardian, off-white such as cream or ivory indicates that someone is devoted to a path of higher spirituality, and that they are progressing accordingly.  Pearl and pearly shades are the hallmark of mediums or others who are highly in tune with the spiritual presences which surround us.  Ivory is the shade of someone who seeks goodness and truth, but is also adept at communicating those ideas to others and may serve as a great influence to others.

The meaning of different aura colors can also be found individually when the colors are mixed.  Most people have varying aura patterns to reflect different sides of their emotional spectrum as well.

Happy Birthday, Aries!

Birthday greetings to our strong and competitive adversary (or lover!), the awesome Aries!


Ruled by Mars, Aries are naturally full of energy, and love being "first" in everything.  Aries people tend to be strong and physically robust; they love a challenge in any form.  Whether it's a physically competitive sport or a bracing game of chess, the Aries can't resist jumping in to play! Independence and a pioneering spirit comes naturally to the Aries.  At times, people may find that Aries enthusiasm annoying, but rest assured, there is seldom malice behind it.  Aries are also pretty bad liars, so they tend to be honest and forthright; they also trust other people to do the same.  They are just high-energy performers, and they expect the best from themselves as much as they do from others.  An Aries can inspire others with their natural vibrance and their interest in people around them.

These are the pioneers of the zodiac!  With an Aries by your side, you've got an exciting and awesome friend in your life. :)


Happy Birthday, Aries friends!  We love you!

P. S.  I made some cute birthday images of each zodiac sign... keep checking back all year for more!  I hope that you enjoy these!  They're licensed under "Creative Commons" (non-commercial only) so feel free to share them and use them for personal stuff on Facebook, Myspace, or wherever you like to network with your friends.  Have fun!

This work by ConsultTheSage.Com is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

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Meaning of a Black, White, or Grey Aura

Black and white are not technically part of the color spectrum, but shades of those hues, including metallics and grays, are often prevalent in auras of all types.

People with these colors may be troubled.  Blacks, greys, and whites are often temporary or transitional auric presences that appear during times of great emotion and drama: either for good or for ill.

A silvery-grey color is often associated with a strong mind-body connection.  People who practice yoga, faith healing, or other forms of spiritual-physical improvement programs will often have shades of this color within their auric presence.

Black is a troubling color to see, as it often indicates extreme emotional or spiritual stress.  Those who are experiencing a crisis, abuse, addiction, or depression can reveal black within their auras.  Again, this is a transitional color, and as the spirit heals, so too can the aura.  Try some aura cleansing rituals if you need a positive change.

Heather grey can indicate a prolonged illness or a tendency toward pessimism, despite the experiences of the aura bearer.  It can also indicate a highly sensitive and fragile state of being which may need extra care.

Charcoal grey is seen in the auras of people with more severe depression, mental illness, or even suicidal tendencies.  It can also present in people who are feeling trapped and hopeless in their lives or situations.  These people need tending and nurturing, and more importantly, to find the ability to climb out of such a state before the aura darkens further.

White is a shade that is seen often in people who are seeking spiritual truth.  There can also be a shyness or introspection that sets these people apart from the rest of the crowd.  People with white in their auras may also be protected by a guardian angel, benevolent spirit, or bestowed with good fortune.

People may ask what a black aura means, what a grey aura looks like, or the meaning of a white aura.  The truth is that all of these colors and more can be incorporated in their aura patterns.  You're unique and have many different facets!

Moon Phases for Spiritual Work

The best spiritual works tend to ebb and flow with the changes in nature.  One of the easiest ways to set your spiritual clock is to wait for nightfall, and look up -- let the moon be your guide!

Here are a few clues as to how to use those moon phases to your advantage:

New Moon (also known as "Dark of the Moon")
When the sky is void of a moon, it is like having a do-over.  This is the perfect clean slate; spellcasters can use this phase to help remove unwanted elements in his or her life.  It is perfect for cleansing and banishing negative energies.  Remember, though, that when there's an empty space in your life, it must be filled.  Try to do so with positive, healing energies and thoughts.

Waxing Crescent
This is when the moon begins to grow.  It's the perfect time to do spiritual work involving nurturing, growing, and creating.  This phase is particularly useful for spells of personal power, protection, monetary abundance, and the improving of friendships and other relationships.  Constructive and positive work will be enhanced during this time.

First Quarter
Between the new and full moon comes the First Quarter.  This is the middle of the waxing phase, when the moon is "half cooked."  As the moon continues to grow in size, you may find the best time for attracting and pulling positivity toward your life.  Love spells and personal power spells flourish during this time.

Waxing Gibbous
The moon is getting bigger and approaching full-moon status.  If you have any loose ends (such as unfinished spells or other spiritual work), this is the appropriate time to bring those to a natural conclusion.  You may also wish to use this phase to plan ahead in what you'd like your future spellwork to include.  Some also say that either Gibbous phase is an excellent time for divination and for doing protective spells or prayers.

Full Moon
A full moon is famous (or perhaps infamous?) for its mystical power.  This is a perfect time for meditation and to gain strength.  It's a wonderful time for practices that require the most powerful and potent magicks.  If you're looking to use the power of the full moon in your spells, check the moon phase information for your area online and try not to wait until the full moon begins waning.  (NOTE:  Sometimes, a Blue Moon will occur; this is when a month has two full moons instead of just one.  Use that extra full moon well.  It can add a special power boost to your favorite full-moon spells!)

Waning Gibbous
For those negative or annoying influences in your life, you will do best to banish them during the waning parts of the moon's phases.  The waning gibbous, being the largest waning phase, can help with the really troublesome issues that you need to conquer.  Just as with the waxing gibbous, it is always a good time for divination, as well.

Last Quarter
As the moon begins to finish its cycle, you can use this time to seek balance.  Focusing on eliminating negativity, while restoring positivity, and replacing the bad with the good, can be especially effective at this time of the month.

Waning Crescent
As you're waiting for the new moon to arrive, you can use this waning crescent for banishment of illness, depression, and to prevent harm against others.  It is a cleansing and reflective time.  You may also want to use this phase as inspiration to tie up loose ends and finish anything that you've been procrastinating.

The Brown Aura Color and Its Meanings

Brown is a deep, tranquil, and earthy hue within the auric spectrum. It is generally thought to be a combination of darkest orange, with a bit of green or blue energy thrown in for good measure.  Corresponding to the earth, it is a color of practicality, warmth, and persistence.

People with a brown aura, regardless of the shade of brown represented or the amount of within the aura, tend to be very businesslike and careful, but nurturing and generally interested in helping others. They are often very brave, and wonderful team players. On the negative side, however, despite their best or most loving intentions, brown aura individuals may have control issues or anxiety.  Brown aura bearers can also be of delicate constitution, needing extra time to charge their emotional batteries.

Light brown auras are a good example of the caring nurturer with a practical approach to solving problems.  The lighter color may indicate that the aura bearer is running out of energy, or is coming to the end of a major issue in his or her life.

Tan, like light brown, also symbolizes a depleted sense of energy.  However, a tan aura bearer tends to be less focused on feelings and emotions, and more concerned with logic and facts in order to achieve goals.

Greyish brown (mushroom color) is another shade that shows a deficiency in personal energy.  Brown aura bearers tend to deplete themselves quickly, so they need to take extra energy.  This shade indicates a slower and more careful thought process, in an attempt to pace him- or herself.  Try some aura polishing techniques if you need a positive change.

Chocolate is a common shade for the environmentally conscious, outdoorsy type of person.  This person can recharge those batteries by connecting with the earth, plants and animals.

Rusty brown can be indicative of a tough-as-nails, persistent person who will fight through anything to achieve his or her goals.  The addition of a red essence in this shade boosts the aura bearer's natural "brown" tendency to fade quickly.  There is an aggression here that can be channeled positively.

Reddish-clay brown aura bearers show persistence and grace under pressure, as well as a pioneering spirit and an unconventional nature.  However, there is also the tendency for a short temper or stubbornness to rear an ugly head occasionally.

Espresso brown is a calm, quiet shade that gives its bearer a simple elegance and a lot of common sense.  There may not be too many original ideas coming from this bearer, however the logic of such an individual is quite valuable when processing or improving upon ideas from other sources.

The next time that you wonder what a brown aura means, you only have to look inward.  Each aura is unique,  and aura patterns can contain many different shades of brown.  Do what feels right for you!