Fire sign. Fixed. Sun-ruled. July 23 to August 22.

Leo and the Sun

The sun rules Leo in traditional astrology, and no sign wears that rulership more visibly. Where other signs are defined by their relationship to other planets and other people, Leo is defined by its relationship to its own center — its creative output, its self-expression, its need to shine. The shadow of Leo is not arrogance but the fear of not being seen, not being recognized, not mattering. The stones in this collection support the healthy expression of Leo energy: confidence that comes from genuine self-knowledge, not performance.

Sunstone

A feldspar mineral with aventurescence — a glittering optical effect caused by reflective inclusions of hematite or goethite within the stone. Warm orange to peach in color, with a metallic shimmer that shifts as the stone moves. Found in Norway, India, Canada, and the United States, particularly Oregon. Associated with leadership, joy, and the full expression of personal power. The most literally solar stone in the collection.

Carnelian

A red-orange variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz, colored by iron oxide. One of the oldest stones used in jewelry — found in ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Mesopotamian contexts, used for seals, amulets, and adornment. Associated with creativity, motivation, and the courage to act. For Leo, carnelian supports the translation of creative vision into actual output — the fire that moves from inspiration to execution.

Pyrite

Iron sulfide, forming in perfect cubic crystals with a metallic gold luster. The name comes from the Greek for fire — pyrite produces sparks when struck against metal or stone. Found worldwide in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rock. Associated with confidence, willpower, and the projection of strength. Visually one of the most striking minerals in the collection — the cubic crystal faces catch light like faceted gold.

Tiger's Eye

A pseudomorphic quartz that has replaced crocidolite (blue asbestos) fiber by fiber, preserving the fibrous structure while replacing the mineral. The chatoyancy — the moving band of light called the cat's eye effect — is caused by light reflecting off those parallel fibers. Found primarily in South Africa and Australia. Associated with focus, empowerment, and the ability to see clearly under pressure. For Leo, tiger's eye supports the discernment that keeps confidence from becoming overreach.

Citrine

Quartz colored yellow to amber by iron impurities, or by the natural irradiation of amethyst over geological time. Found in Brazil, Spain, Madagascar, and the United States. Associated with abundance, optimism, and the expression of personal power in the world. The November birthstone. Can fade in prolonged direct sunlight — store away from strong light.

Materials and Care

All pieces are set in electroformed copper or wire-wrapped brass, handcrafted in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Citrine should be stored away from direct sunlight. Remove all pieces before water and chemicals. Store dry. Copper develops a natural patina over time.