Luck is defined as that which happens to a person...an event, good or ill...which affects an individual's interests or happiness and which is deemed causal. It is a series of such events which are regarded as occurring by chance, fate or fortune...often, a person's habitual or characteristic fortune. It has been said that luck is better than skill.

In Greek Mythology, the Goddess of Luck is Tyche, known to the Romans as Fortuna. She is often portrayed holding a double-sided rudder that could steer mankind to good or bad luck. She also frequently holds a cornucopia (horn of plenty) to symbolize prosperity and is sometimes blindfolded to indicate that luck is a matter of "blind chance." In addition, Tyche occasionally sports wings to symbolize how good fortune might be fleeting. A ball, representative of the manner in which luck "rolls according to chance" is often associated with this Goddess. Tyche is said to teach the paradoxical message that life is essentially a game of dice, determined by chance, and that nothing is ever set in stone. No matter how certain an individual might be that something will happen, there is always an underlying element of chance, and it would be wise to expect the unexpected. Instead of submission to Fate, Tyche provides the encouragment for individuals to take things into their own hands, thus making their own destiny. In was in Tyche's temple that the first set of dice were dedicated by Palamedes, perhaps indicating the capriciousness of life and luck...and the fickle manner in which the fortunes of mortals are often decided.

"Luck affects everything;
Let your hook always be cast;
In the stream where you least expect it,
There will be a fish."
-- Ovid --

The lucky number for Scorpio is nine (also known as the Novena). It is a number which Scorpio shares with those individuals born under the Sign of Aries. Nine is one of the three mystical numbers (the others being three and five), representing society and completion as well as symbolizing mankind, philanthropy, charity, social issues and government. Nine is representative of universal love, giving and the brotherhood of man, as well as neighborhood, clubs, organizations, institutions and the common good. It is the completion of a cycle, symbolic of change and reform...the end prior to a new beginning. Nine is a number which is unbounded...the most Holy number, being the ultimate number which contains the forces of all other numbers. It lends itself to creative living and intuition. Being eternal within itself, nine leads back to the solitary root forces...the number one. It is the highest single digit and most interesting figure in numerology. It is the number of the circumference, represented by the two triangles which are a symbol of male-fire-mountain and female-water-cave principles. In geometry, this number represents the circle and, like the square, is 360 degrees, composed of four 90 degree angles (i.e., the completed cycle). Nine is also known in mathematics as the Third Three, being composed of the all-powerful 3x3. As such, it is the Triple Triad, a number which is incorruptible, symbolic of the immaculate expression of perfection, representative of completed creation and expansion of the family of manking. If nine is multiplied by itself or by any other digit, the two figures of the sum added equal nine. For example: 9x2=18 =1+8=9...or 9x9=81 =8+1=9. The Hebrews referred to the number nine as representing immutable truth and the Ennead (or nine-pointed star) is an ancient and sacred symbol, comprising three trinities. Nine is also the number of the mythic Lords of Time and represented the original Mayan galactic masters, thus being the magic number of the Maya civilization. In Buddhist tradition, nine is the supreme spiritual power...a celestial number. According to Greek mythology, Demeter walked the world for nine days in search of her daughter, Leto suffered the pangs of childbirth for nine days and nine nights, and the Nine Muses were the fruits of nine nights of Zeus' lovemaking. Thus, nine is associated with gestation and the fulfillment of creation. In Scandinavian lore, Odin hung for nine days and nights on the Yggdrasil in order to win the secrets of wisdom for humankind. There are also Nine Orders of Angels, Nine Rivers of Hell, Nine Gifts of the Spirit and Nine Points of the Law, as well as being the number of known astronomical planets. In the "I Ching," nine is the number of Yang. This number represents all things earthly and nocturnal.

In biblical numerology, nine is the Number of Judgment. There are nine Greek words derived from the root word dikay, meaning "judgment." The following words each occur nine times in the Bible: abussos (bottomless pit); asebee (ungodly); aselgeia (lasciviousness); and astrapee (lightning). The gifts of the spirit are nine in number: the words of wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles and prophecy; the discerning of spirits; tongues; and the interpretation of tongues.

Nine is masculine in nature and, when associated with Scorpio, resides in the Eighth House of Death and Inheritance, governing emotional connections, fears and obsessions. In numerous folktales, the number nine is repeated many times over to indicate infinity. In biblical associations, Abram was "ninety and nine years old" (symbolically reduced to a nine) when he received his covenant from God, together with his new name...Abraham. Nine is selflessness and compassion, encompassing a love for all. Jesus is said to have died at the ninth hour. Nine has connections with Mars, the ruling planet of Aries and former ruling planet of Scorpio (which is now governed by Pluto). The colors associated with the number nine are those in the rose, crimson and red families...any hue from the lightest to the darkest. Its peak tends to be the nighttime hours, with its natural element being fire and its associated gems being garnets, rubies and bloodstones.

The luckiest colors for Scorpio are those that range from dark red through maroon/burgundy...although this Sign is essentially linked with any hue considered to be dark and brooding (brick or a rich deep brown, for example). Scorpio colors are intense, powerful and often associated with physical intimacy, mystery and great depth. Dark red is the color of emotional saturation, passion, power, suppression, demand, sublimated activity, suffering, threat and strained temper. It is erotic and evokes instincts. In contrast to the red of Aries, this darker tinge is less open and more secret...not positive and tense. Because of its saturation, there is some concealment and a certain degree of hardness in this color. It tends to cause emotional rather than physical excitement. Dark red correlates to the form of the triangle with the top below and the upper sides rounded...somewhat like a heart.

In heraldry, maroon/burgundy is symbolic of sacrifice but there appears to be no Christian symbolism associated with the range of colors connected to this dark red family. In addition, there is no specific information detailing either the positive or negative qualities assigned to these particular deep red hues, but it is probably safe to assume that they would follow...at least to some degree...the same pattern as those for the brighter red of Aries.

Positive Qualities Of Red: Physical Courage - Strength - Warmth - Energy - Basic Survival - Stimulation - Masculinity - Excitement
Negative Qualities Of Red: Defiance - Aggression - Visual Impact - Strain

Black is also deemed to be a most favorable color for those governed by Scorpio and it is one they can wear with elegance and flair. Black is all colors, totally absorbed. The psychological implications of that are considerable. Black creates protective barriers, consuming all the forward-moving energy as it enshrouds the personality. On a more positive note, black communicates absolute clarity with no fine nuances. It conveys sophistication and uncompromising excellence, creating a perception of weight and seriousness...although it is a myth that black clothes are slimming. Essentially, black is an absence of light since no wavelengths are reflected. Therefore, it can be a menacing color, as evidenced by the fact that many people are afraid of the dark.

Black is formal, conventional and dignified. In ancient Egypt, it symbolised night, death and magic...the essential opposite of green, the color of life. Black is also symbolic of of evil and often represents such ideas as power, formality, wealth, sorrow, remorse and mourning...indeed, it is a Christian tradition to wear black when attending a funeral. It is also representative of the primordial void or emptiness, as well as of constancy, eternity and the womb. Described as the color of mystery and solemnity, black expresses the depths of the unknown and encourages the imagination of a different world from that of daylight realities. Used by itself, black can represent bad luck or misfortune and may also denote fear and ignorance...or sin, which results in destruction. In Christian symbolism, black signifies death and is the liturgical color of Good Friday. In heraldry, black is symbolic of grief and sorrow. In China, it is the traditional color for little boys.

Positive Qualities Of Black: Sophistication - Glamor - Security - Efficiency - Substance - Emotional Safety
Negative Qualities Of Black: Oppression - Coldness - Menace - Heaviness

Scorpio individuals generally prefer clothing in colors associated with nebulous or intriguing patterns, suggesting things that are hidden or mysterious. They also tend to gravitate toward the strong primary colors.

Other Favorable Colors: Pink - Orange - White - Green - Yellow - Navy Blue - Bright Brown
Unvavorable Colors: Bright Red - Royal Blue - Steel Grey - Dull Brown - Variegated Colors - Faded Colors

The lucky flower for Scorpio is the chrysanthemum, which counts the chamomile, the tansy, the marguerite and the common daisy among its relatives. This flower has been known since before 500 B.C. in a small yellow form. It was named by Carl Linnaeus, derived from the Greek krus anthemom, which means "gold flower." The chrysanthemum originated in Japan and China, the latter...considering it to be the highest of all flowers...naming their royal throne in its honor. Indeed, this flower has been the focus of Oriental adulation for centuries. Believed to be one of the four Chinese "noble plants," the chrysanthemum was once the official badge of that country's army and since it was deemed to be the flower of the nobility, was prohibited from being grown in the garden of lower class individuals. According to Chinese tradition, a chrysanthemum given to one's beloved, after being used to wipe one's mouth after drininkg wine, will ensure undyling love and fidelity. In Japan, where the chrysanthemum is known as kikus, it is that country's national flower and featured on the imperial coat of arms. It even has a special day in its honor...Chongyang, which is celebrated on September 9 every year. In addition, the chrysanthemum was so loved by Japanese emperors that they had it carved upon their thrones...and the greatest honor for a Japanese citizen is to obtain the Order of the Chrysanthemum. This flower is still held to be symbolic of the Sun and the orderly unfolding of its petals considered to be indicative of perfection. In Japanese culture, it is also believed that a single chrysanthemum petal placed in the bottom of a wine glass will encourage a long and healthy life. Also know as the Flower of Happiness, Flower of the East and Flower of Life, the chrysanthemum may be found in a range of shapes and sizes and is available all year round. The blooms appear in every conceivable color, including bronze, lime green and brick red. The one exception to this is blue...blue chrysanthemums are artificially dyed for special events. Chrysanthemums are native to Europe, Asia and North America and formerly known in England as the corn marigold.

At one time or another, the chrysanthemum appears to have been employed in almost every area of the globe as a cure for a host of complaints. The most favorable specimens for medicinial purposes are considered to be the fragrant yellow flowers. Traditionally, they are harvested in Autumn, when they are in full bloom. As an herb, the chrysanthemum is said to be beneficial for headaches, dizziness and hearing disorders when taken internally. As an infusion, this flower may be combined with honeysuckle for the treatment of colds, influenza and infected sores. It is also useful as a treatment for high blood pressure and may be used as a compress or a wash for inflammation of the eyes...as well as other associated problems, such as dry-eye, blurred vision and spots or floaters in the eye. The chrysanthemum is said to have a calming effect and can also be employed to relieve stress. It is known to be a powerful antiseptic and antibiotic. In China, chrysanthemum petals are eaten in salads to increased longevity and the Chinese serve chrysanthemum tea as a cure for headaches or depression. In Korea, the roots of the flower are boiled in order to make a tea to prevent vertigo. While chrysanthemums in general denote optimisum, cheerfulness, rest, abundance and wealth, as well as being associated with valued friendships, certain individual colors do carry specific messages...red for love, good luck and best wishes, white for truth and loyal love, and yellow for slighted love, for example. Chrysanthemums are welcome in most countries for any occasion but in Italy and Malta, they are thought to be unlucky flowers to have inside the house and are chiefly associated with death, funerals and All Saints Day. According to Chinese Feng Shui, chrysanthemums bring laughter and happiness into the home. To dream of smelling chrysanthemums predicts the fulfillment of hopes. To dream of picking the flower means increased social activity. To dream of giving or receiving chrysanthemums indicates an unexpected increase in status courtesy of influential friends.

There are several legends associated with the chrysanthemum. Both Ancient Chinese and Japanese folklore explains the origin of the chrysanthemum. The Chinese legend tells the story of an elderly emperor who had heard of a magic herb that would give him eternal youth. This herb was said to grow on Dragonfly Island (present day Japan) in the Sunrise Sea and could only be picked by young people. The elderly emperor therefore dispatched 24 children on what proved to be a long and hazardous journey...battling perilous storms and staving off attacks by sea serpents. However, much to their dismay, when the young group finally arrived at the island, they found it totally deserted...and there was no sign of the magic herb. All they found was a flower...the golden chrysanthemum...which today still symbolises the Chinese people's ties with their country. Later, Mao Tse Tung replaced the imperial golden yellow with the red of the People's Republic. The Japanese tale revolves around the God Izanagi and the Goddess Izanami, who were sent to Earth across a bridge of clouds because there were too many deities residing in heaven. When she arrived on Earth, Izanami created the Gods of Wind, Mountains and Sea, but perished miserably in the flames that erupted while she was creating the God of Fire. Izanagi, who missed her desperately, followed Izanami into a dismal place known as the Black Night. After viewing a great number of vile sights, he finally caught a glimpse of the Goddess but was immediately pursued by the Old Hag of Black night. Fleeing back to Earth, Izangi decided to cleanse and purify himself in the river. The items of clothing he dropped onto the ground turned into twelve Gods and his jewels became flowers...one bracelet transforming into an iris, a second into a lotus flower and his necklace becoming a golden chrysanthemum. However, one German legend has no such association with the origin of this flower and instead, is tied to Christianity. The tale tells of a peasant family who dwelt in the Black Forest. Sitting down to a meager meal one chilly Christmas Eve, they they heard a wailing noise coming from outside. Upon opening the door, they discovered a beggar who was shivering and turning blue with cold. They wrapped him in blankets and shared their food with him. Instantly, the blankets were shed, revealing a man dressed in shining white clothes with a halo encircling his head. Proclaiming himself to be the Christ Child, he then left the small cottage. The following morning, outside the door where he had stood, were two white chrysanthemums. Today, many German people bring white chrysanthemums into their homes on Christmas Eve, believing that by doing so, they are providing shelter for the Christ Child.

The lucky gemstone of an individual is truly associated with the month of birth rather than the Sign under which a person was born. The original association of a special gem with each month was recorded in the Bible (Exodus 28 and 39). An original Breastplate of Aaron, High Priest of the Hebrews, was said to be made by Moses in 1250 BC, according to instructions he received during his forty days spent in the mountains. The twelve gems in the breastplate were later linked with the Signs of the Zodiac and later still, associated with the months in the year. What follows describes the breastplate of the High Priest:

It was square -- a span [22 centimetres] long and a span wide -- and folded double. Then they mounted four rows of precious stones on it. In the first row there was a ruby, a topaz and a beryl; in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire and an emerald; in the third row a jacinth, an agate and an amethyst; in the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx and a jasper. They were mounted in gold filigree settings. There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes.
(Old Testament, New International Version, Exodus, Chapter 39, vs. 9-14)

The precise identification of some of these precious stones is uncertain. For example, in the same passage of the Revised Standard Version of Exodus, diamonds, sardius, and carbuncle (an alternative name for the garnet) are also included in the list of twelve biblically significant gemstones. It should also be kept in mind that aquamarines and emeralds are forms of beryl, while sardonyx is a form of onyx, and jacinth and chrysolite are also known respectively as zircon and peridot.

The lucky gem for Scorpio individuals born in October is the opal. They share this fortunate jewel with those Libra individuals who were also born during the same month. Its name is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word upala or "treasure stone." It was later referred to in Latin as opalusopallios, meaning "to change color." In ancient times, the opal was accepted as a symbol of faithfulness and confidence. The opal is a non-crystalline form of the mineral silica which is formed from fossil wood, shells of sea animals and bones of now-extinct reptiles that lived in the time of the dinosaurs. Most opal is more than sixty million years old and generally dates back to the Cretaceous period. Indeed, archaeologist Louis Leakey found six thousand year old opal artifacts in a Kenyan cave and the Aztecs once mined this gemstone in South and Central America. Most opals occur in thin seams to be found in rock. The colors of the white opal (which in ancient times originated from Marmaros in the Nagy-Banya district of what is now Czechoslovakia) scintillate on a pale-tinted background, whereas the colors of the black opal (found most commonly in Australia and Nevada) shimmer against a curtain of dark blue or grey. Although somewhat more soft and fragile than most other gemstones, an opal can last a lifetime if mounted in the proper setting and given ongoing care. Generally, the thicker the opal, the more durable and it should be set in a mounting that holds the stone all the way around its edges (such as a bezel rather that prongs).

Perhaps no other gemstone has been as loved and as feared over the centuries as the opal, the general belief being that this jewel will bring bad luck if not worn by those born in October. This is not necessarily true and can probably be traced to a novel written by Sir Walter Scott (entitled "Anne of Gierstein"), in which the heroine has her life force caught in the beautiful opal she wears and then dies when the fire in the opal is extinguished. This belief may have also been compounded by the story of King Alphonso XII of Spain, who ruled from 1874 to 1885. He presented an opal ring to his wife, who died soon afterward. Before the funeral, the King gave the ring to his sister, who also died a short time later. The ring was then passed to the King's sister-in-law, who expired within three months from receiving the gift. Understandably startled by these tragedies, the King decided to wear the ring himself, but also died within a short period of time. These negative connotations were somewhat dispelled during the time of Queen Victoria. Taking a great liking to the gemstone, she presented many fine examples to members of her family as wedding gifts and gradually, the opal came back into favor. The famous actress, Sarah Bernhard, wore opals and preferred them to all other gemstones. Nonetheless, it is believed to be a fact that opals will bring misfortune to any who attempt to use its power for evil or selfish purposes. It is considered a stone of love, but only to those who are faithful, bring nothing but misfortune to those who are not loyal. If an opal is given as a sign of love or for luck, then its breaking is regarded as a bad omen.

In Hindu lore, legend tells of a woman desired by three Gods at the same time and whom the Eternal transformed into a magic cloud. In order to recognize her, Brahma endowed her with the color of the azure, Shiva tinted her with fiery red and Vishnu gave her the splendor of the Sun. Then, the Eternal bestowed her consistance again in the shape of an opel. Yet another myth maintains that the opal was born from the sacrifice of a young woman who hurled herself into the funerary pyre of her sweetheart instead of the legitimate wife, whose death was demanded by Hindu rites. The Ancient Arabs believed that opals fell from the heavens in flashes of lightning, acquiring their marvelous fiery colors in the process and the Greek nation thought that an opal bestowed foresight and the gift of prophecy upon the wearer. To the Romans, the opal was a symbol of hope and purtiy. Indeed, Pliny (the ancient Roman scholar) wrote that this stone had "the fire of the ruby, the brilliant purple of the amethyst and the sea green of the emerald, all shining together in incredible union." Considered to possess the ability to prevent disease and strengthen the sight, the opal also provided the spirit of truth and the perfection of beauty. It is reported that the Roman Senator Nonius chose exile rather than surrender a large opal to Marc Anthony and a stunning example known as the orphanus was set in the crown of the Holy Roman Emperor. This stone is also to be found in the crown jewels of France and Napoleon presented Josephine with a magnificent opal that flashed a brilliant red. He called this opal "the burning of Troy," thus making his Empress comparable to the famous Helen. In the Middle Ages, the opal was particularly treasured and was known as the ophthalmios or "eye stone" due to the widespread belief that it was benefical to eyesight. Until approximately four centuries ago, the opal was believed to combine all the virtues of the various colored stones, whose hues it united in a sparkling light. However, during the Black Plague in the Fourteenth Century, this gemstone acquired a more evil connotation...it was thought to lose its luster when the owner died of this deadly disease. Considered to be a good gem for thieves, in that it has the powers of invisibility and astral projection, the opal is also thought to preserve blond hair. Consequently, many blonde women once wore opal necklaces to protect their hair from fading. The Chinese believe that the wearer must be pure of heart in order to receive one as a gift and Asian cultures view this stone as a symbol of hope and loyalty.

Opals are considered to be very powerful in ritual magic. Since a quality opal contains every color of every other birthstone, it can be used or charged with all the energies and powers of the other gems combined, and can be used in place of any birthstone to cast spells, rituals or other mystical needs. It is often used to recall past lives...each color said to represent a previous incarnation. Fire opals (normally worn as a pendant on a gold chain) in particular are frequently utilized in money rituals to draw funds to those who are in need. Black opals are customarily the tools of choice for witches and magicians, who use them primarily to enhance their magical receptive or projection powers. Black opals worn near the heart on necklaces fashioned from gold are said to ward off evil, afford protection from the evil eye and provide safety for travelers who journey to faraway lands. The white opal, when used in rituals on the nights of the Full Moon, is thought to bring the powers of the Moon Goddess to full fruition in the practitioner. In days gone by, opals were ground into powder and used in magic potions to heal the body, eliminate bad dreams and to energize enhancement tools. This gem is also reputed to increase mental capacities, such as creative imagination and other unused powers of the mind. In fact, the aboriginal shaman of Australia often use opals to conjure visions, believing that the birth of opals occured when the Creator came down to Earth on a rainbow and, where his foot touched the ground, the stones became alive and started sparkling in all the colors of the rainbow. Dreaming of opals is said to denote the coming of great possessions. It is the anniversary gemstone for the 14th and 18th years of marriage.

The lucky gem for Scorpio individuals born in November is the topaz. They share this fortunate jewel with those Sagittarius individuals who were also born during the same month. In ancient times, all yellow stones were referred to by the name "topaz." According to some sources, the name is believed to derive from the Indian Sanskrit word tapas, which means "fire." Another theory is that it is named for the Island of Topazos located in the Red Sea, where the Romans obtained a stone which they called by this name. However, topazos actually means "green gemstone." Regardless, the Romans dedicated the topaz to their God Jupiter. The topaz has been known for at least 2,000 years and is one of the gemstones that form the foundations of the twelve gates to the Holy City of New Jerusalem. Although topaz is the hardest silicate mineral, it can be split with a single blow. It occurs in metamorphic rocks and also...though rarely...in schists. In addition, it appears in hypothermal ore deposits associated with cassiterite, hematite, wolframite and gold, as well as in eluvial and alluvial deposits. Currently one of the most popular gems used in contemporary jewelry, topaz is found chiefly in Brazil (where it is called the pingo d'agoa or "water droplet"), Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and China.

Regarded as a very protective gemstone of the Sun, it is said that to keep a piece of topaz in the home will protect the household. Likewise, in order to ward off bad dreams, a topaz should be placed under the pillow. In ancient times, the image of a falcon would be carved on a topaz to help earn the goodwill of kings, princes and magnates. Known to the Greeks as the Stone of Strength, it was thought by that culture to possess the power to increase strength and make the wearer invisible. The Romans thought it could improve eyesight and the Egyptians wore this jewel as an amulet to protect them from injury, believing it to be colored with the golden glow of Ra, the mighty Sun God. During the Middle Ages, the topaz fell out of favor. It was used occasionally in ecclesiastical jewels, but little else. However, it was deemed to heal physical and mental disorders...as well as prevent death. A topaz weighing over four pounds was presented to Pope Leo X (1475-1521) to commemorate his Silver Annivesary as head of the Catholic Church.

When worn around the neck, it is said that this gem has the ability to dispel enchantment, make a person more intelligent and drive away sadness. In terms of medicinal properties, the topaz is believed to stimulate the endocrine system, as well as assist in general tissue regeneration, increase poor appetite and aid in fighting blood disorders. This jewel is also thought to balance emotions and calm passions. It releases tension and inspires feelings of joy. In short, topaz is considered a spiritual rejuvenation gemstone. In addition, it is believed to dispel sadness, anger and nocturnal fears, as well as warn the wearer of poisons and offer protection from sudden death. Powdered topaz was once added to wine that was then administered to prevent asthma and insomnia. A cure for weak vision called for immersing the stone in wine for three days and then rubbing the liquid onto the eyelids. It is reputed to make men more handsome and grant fertility to sterile women. In times past, it was claimed that a person could immerse his or her hand into boiling water after a topaz had been thrown in and retract it again unharmed. Topaz is believed to encourage self-realization and confidence, impart strength to subdue wild emotions, bestow charisma upon the wearer, draw love to the wearer, and protect against envy, disease and negative magicks. In addition, combined with an equal amount of tiger-eye, topaz is believed to bring wealth and money. The gold topaz is said to be particularly effective in tissue regeneration, as well as strengthening the liver, gallbladder spleen, digestive system and nervous system, as well as detoxifying the body. The blue topaz...known as a stone of true love and success in all endeavors...is thought to promote individuality and creativity, while providing for confidence in the trusting of personal decisions. It is said to replace negativity with love and joyfulness. The Ancients believed that the powers of this stone could cure burns and insomnia...and that its effectiveness increased and decreased with the phases of the Moon.

Pure topaz itself is colorless, but it does occur in a broad range of colors...yellow, pink, peach, gold, green, red and brown, for instance...with some natural yellow stones heated to become permanently pink. Blue topaz is another variety of this stone, but is relatively rare in a natural state. It is one of the few gem minerals that, under suitable conditions, will grow into enormous crystals. The topaz is a transparent stone with a vitreous luster. The most rare specimen of this gem is known as Imperial Topaz, orange-red in color and so named because it was used in the jewelry of the 18th and 19th Century Russian Czarinas. The most famous topaz is of the colorless variety and was originally thought to be a diamond. It is a 1,680 carat stone known as the Braganza and is set in the Portuguese Crown Jewels. Another beautiful example may be found in the Green Vault in Dresden (Germany), which houses one of the world's most important gem collections. The Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C., which exhibits some of the largest gemstones ever faceted, also houses a teal-green topaz of almost 1,500 carats in its "Hall of Giants." The topaz is one of the traditional gems for the 4th, 16th, 19th, 23rd and 50th Wedding Anniversaries, and the pink variety has a special association with the planet Mercury.

The lucky day for those who fall under the jurisdiction of Scorpio is Tuesday. The origin of this day derives from Norse Mythology and Tiw or Tyr, God of War. When the Germanic Angles and Saxons invaded England in the 500s, they suplanted a culture that had been heavily influenced by Rome for several hundred years. At that time, Tuesday had already been named for the Roman God of War, Martius. In the French, Italian, and Spanish languages, the word for Tuesday is still derivative of this Roman God...Mardi, Martedi and Martes, respectively. However, when the Germanic tribes conquered England, they laid their own lexicon over that of the Romans. Thus, the Norse/Saxon God of War, Courage and the Sword now took precedence over the Roman God of War and the day was renamed Tiwesdaeg in honor of this Nordic God.

The Saxons believed that the Norse Gods of Scandinavia lived in a type of heaven known as Asgard. The King of these Gods was named Woden or Odin and he had a built in Asgard a great hall called Valhalla. It was to Valhalla that all the dead heroes were carried by the beautiful Valkyries, who rode winged horses. Tiw was a son of Woden and helped his father to choose which heroes would go to Valhalla. A wise and magnificent warrior himself, Tiw spent most of his time engaging in great battles. According to legend, Tiw fought the fierce wolf called Fenris. He managed to bind the evil creature but in the process, had his hand bitten off by the vicious fangs of the beast. Saxon warriors strove to be like Tiw...to fight on toward victory even though they might be tired, hungry or wounded. To endure hardship in pursuit of triumph was to be remembered in songs around the feast table. During a time when there was no media and little writing, to be celebrated in song was to be a famed celebrity.

Fat Tuesday is the designation generally given to the day just prior to the beginning of Lent. Lent is a forty day period of fasting for many Christians and it always begins on a certain Wedensday prior to Easter. As the day before...always a Tuesday...is the last chance for revelry and also the last chance to use up perishables such as butter, lard and other fats, that day has become known as Mardi Gras, which is French for Fat Tuesday. The celebration of Mardi Gras is probably most famous for its associations with New Orleans, capital of the State of Louisiana in America. In the British Isles, Fat Tuesday is known as Shrove Tuesday, but commemorates the same festival. Also referred to as Pancake Day, one of the best known customs of Shrove Tuesday is that of the Pancake Race at Olney in Buckinghamshire, where it has been held since 1445. This race came into existence when a woman cooking pancakes heard the shriving bell summoning her to confession, whereupon she ran to church wearing her apron and still holding her frying pan. Thus, without knowing it, she began a tradition that has lasted for over 500 years. According to current rules, only women may participate in the race. Each contestant must wear a dress (no slacks or jeans allowed), an apron and a hat or scarf. She must also carry a frying pan containing a hot, cooking pancake, which must be tossed three times during the race. The starting point is the market square and the course winds for 375 meters before ending at the church. The first woman to arrive must serve her pancake to the bellringer and receive a kiss in return. The winner is also awarded a prayer book from the vicar. According to an ancient rhyme, Tuesday's child is full of grace.

FLOWERS/HERBS: Rhododendron, Orchid, Gardenia, Dahlia, Sweet Basil and Purple Heather
OILS: Pine, Yucca, Rosemary, Dogwood, Anemone, Nettles, Cypress and Vanilla
GEMSTONES: Amethyst, Beryl, Sardonyx, Bloodstone, Aquamarine, Coral, Lodestone and Tourmaline
ANIMALS: Scorpion, Wolf and Panther
TREES: Blackthorn, Holly and Bushy Trees
BIRDS: Vulture
METAL: Steel