The deep, rich blue of the nighttime sky, sodalite is valued for its ability to refresh and revitalize the wearer. Its therapeutic effect has been compared to a good night's sleep. It is especially useful for stabilizing the mind and allowing rational thought to triumph. It is thought to improve perception and intellectual understanding, and to offer a clearer perspective on life. The spirit as well as the senses will reward whoever wears this heavenly blue gem. For centuries, coral-- like pearl, a gift of the sea-- was classed among the precious gems valued by man. Not strictly a mineral, coral is an organic substance, composed of the skeletons of millions of tiny marine animals. In its natural state, coral is plantlike in appearance and grows in warm water at depths of up to 90 feet. In hue, it varies from white, to pink, to red or orange, to black. Coral jewelry is known from the Egyptian, Biblical, Classical and Islamic periods. Coral is used as a heart stimulant, as an antidote for fevers and toxins in the body, and for preventing vomiting, colic, and childhood diseases. Its mysterious strength seems to derive from its organic source material, the accumulated energy of living things. Named for its resemblance to the glittering eye of the jungle feline, tiger's eye (also called cat's eye) is a variety of chalcedony. It. is felt to have a beneficial effect on the spleen, the pancreas, the digestive organs and the colon. Emotionally, the gem is a balancer, one that enhances the connection with power and the will. It grounds and centers the feelings of those who wear it, and helps soften stubbornness. As befits a stone resembling an eye, the gem enhances insight and clear perception. Anyone choosing to wear this fabled stone will be rewarded with improved internal vision and the admiring glances of all who see the gem.