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In this episode, we will refer to stones that have holes, which most of the time were attributed to some kind of magic power and were considered fascinating by insinuating or causing a soothing satisfaction. They have many names and are of different origins; most belong to superstition and folklore from thousands of years ago. If you look good, they are not difficult to find. Some can be found near seashores, others can be found on mountains or on open plains. It depends on their size and composition.
The hole or perforation generally allows one to pass a string through it, creating a sort of pendant. It is more obvious that thousands of years ago, perforated stone hanging on a string caused a sort of impression to those who saw it, while transforming the ornament into a powerful amulet for those who wore one. From here, many stories of counter magic and superstitions emanated all over the world’s cultures, of stones spreading supernatural protection and becoming sacred amulets that are highly coveted today.
Many of our island perforated stones occur naturally, and most of them are manly composed of coral, sandstone, or sea shells. Holes are the result of weathering or sea creatures. Each one of these magnificent stones is unique. No two will be alike. In some of them, you can see that it is a perfect hole created by a predator, and in others, it is caused by erosion.
Based on the assumption that the holes in these stones were created by the movement of water, ancient folklore beliefs that magic cannot work through moving water gave them a spell-breaking quality, and so wearing or carrying these fascinating stones gave rise to many legends around the world.
An ancient belief that only good things could pass through a hole suggests that good luck and good wishes would find you through a magic stone. Looking through the holes of these stones by day is said to improve your eyesight, and by night, you can see those ethereal beings that are not usually visible to your physical eye.
The different names by which these stones are known always derive from mysticism, mythology, and shamanic beliefs. For example, Odin’s Stones, in honor of a mythological poem in which Odin, a highly revered god in Norse mythology, transmuted himself into a worm and slipped through a hole in a rock to steal “the mead of poetry”.
Perforated stones are also known as “witch or hag stones.” There are many rituals, benefits, and beliefs associated with hag stones, such as wearing them to protect from witches and provide spiritual awareness. Hag Stones provide protection as well as emotional, physical, and energetic healing, providing insight and wisdom into how to navigate life. Another name is serpent stone, made of hydrated magnesium silicate, similar to a snake or serpent’s skin. Snakes have traditionally been messengers of evil in Western culture. However, that does not mean a serpent stone is a flawed stone.
Some ethno-archaeological studies revealed that perforated stones were also used as weights for fishing nets. While other cultures used perforated stones as spindle stones in yarn elaboration, others used a branch of a tree as a handle that was placed as a shaft or mallet, taking the form of a tool for multiple uses or even a club-style weapon.
If you are keen to explore Aruba’s deep heritage, Etnia Nativa is a place to connect. A private residential, a house which integrates natural and reused materials, bursting with art, culture, and island heritage. Each visitor is guided through an authentic encounter with owner-builder and cultural expert. Booking a magical glimpse inside Etnia Nativa WhatsApp +297 592 2702 etnianativa03@gmail.com
