Flint is characterized by its great hardness
The concept of flint , which comes from the Latin language, refers to flint : a type of quartz that, when struck, generates sparks. Its main component is silica or silicon oxide.
General characteristics
It is a sedimentary rock that is formed through a process of diagenesis . The flint has translucent edges and is compact , characterized by its hardness .
The colors of the flint are variable. It is possible to find white, yellowish, reddish, pink or even black stones; Generally the appearance of flint is opaque.
Flint may contain dolomite , calcite and other impurities. Sometimes fossil remains are even found inside.
Its main component is quartz, which gives it its characteristics resistance and hardness. This mineral occupies position seven on the so-called Mohs scale , where there are ten in total and they are ordered according to their degree of hardness. The geologist Friedrich Mohs proposed it in 1825 based on the fact that any substance can only scratch a softer one.
Flint applications
Thanks to its great hardness, flint has been used by humans since prehistoric times. In fact, due to its ability to produce sparks, it was used to light fires .
Prehistoric man also used flint to make tools and weapons . From knives to scrapers, to axes and arrowheads , this material allowed the creation of numerous implements.
It is interesting to note that, much closer in time , flint continued to be used to create sparks and thus launch certain operations. The first lighters and lighters would use flint, for example. Flint was also present in muzzle-loading rifles and muskets that included the mechanism known as a flintlock .
For lithotherapy
Lithotherapy is known as that which is based on the use of stones and minerals of natural origin to lead the body towards balance , either as a preventive measure or to treat diseases. It is important to note that this type of therapy contemplates two levels with respect to the properties of the stones: their action on the mental level and on the material level . Speaking specifically of flint, on the mental level we can say that it emanates energy and enhances the person's strength of mind, counteracting characteristics such as weakness, laziness and fear.
Specialists draw an analogy between this stone's ability to give rise to sparks that later become fire and its revitalizing effects on human beings. To obtain this and other benefits of flint, there are those who wear a fragment hanging around their neck, as an amulet. It is believed to also stimulate determination, improve oral communication and decision making under pressure.
Lithotherapy takes advantage of the benefits of stones for our body
Regarding the physical plane, flint is recommended for its strong relationship with the chakras and its important influence on our body . In this aspect, it can be used for the regulation of the kidneys, with the subsequent purification of the blood. It can also help treat liver problems, calcium in the arteries and joints, lung diseases, skin wounds, headaches, indigestion and even for the prevention of nightmares. Despite offering so many benefits, not many people know about it.
As a proper name
Sílex Ediciones , on the other hand, is the name of a Spanish publishing house founded in 1967 . It was originally created for the publication of monographs that complemented the photographs taken by Eleonor Domínguez in the Altamira Caves .
Silex , finally, is a small town in Missouri ( United States ). This town is located in Lincoln County.