紀州赤石 KISHU Redstone

In ancient Japan, it was believed that keeping “Akaishi” (red stone) from the Kii River (Kino River) nearby or wearing it on one’s person had the power to ward off evil spirits and keep demons at bay.
Although this custom has gradually faded and disappeared in modern times, overseas, Akaishi is still deeply believed to be a mineral imbued with the power of the sun and has long been treasured as a protective stone.
The Akaiishi from the Kii River is quartz containing a large amount of iron; when the iron oxidizes, it turns a vivid red, making it one of the most representative examples of this type of color-changing mineral. Because the geological environments of the Kii and Yoshino Rivers feature high temperatures and high pressure—conditions ideal for producing Akaiishi with a high Mohs hardness—the same stones can also be found in neighboring Nara Prefecture.

Although it is called “red stone,” its color palette is actually quite rich. In addition to red, one can observe a variety of color phenomena, including green and yellow. The reason for this lies primarily in the fact that the stone’s matrix is composed of chlorite and epidote, which contain iron oxide; depending on the rate of oxidation and the passage of time, it exhibits strikingly different and captivating hues. In recent years, due to factors such as bank reinforcement projects along the Kinoshikawa River, the original mining sites have been filled in. Consequently, all Akai stones currently available on the market are precious, out-of-production stocks left over from past mining operations.

Symbolic Meaning: Warding off evil spirits (magic protection), protective stone, stone of the sun

Important Information Before Purchase
• Regarding Effects: Actual experiences and effects vary from person to person due to differences in physical constitution, lifestyle habits, and usage methods.
• Natural stones and natural wood retain their unique natural textures and characteristics. Variations in color, patterns, slight differences in size, natural indentations, or minor deformities are all normal phenomena and do not constitute defects. Perfectionists should consider this carefully before purchasing.
• Due to differences in display settings across various smartphone and computer brands, the color of the product may differ slightly from the actual item; this is normal. We photograph all products as they appear in real life and make every effort to present colors that are as close to the actual product as possible.

Bead Specifications:
10mm / Wrist circumference: approx. 17cm