Chalcopyrite
Illusions can be used to scam people, but they’re also one of our most treasured forms of art, and no other mineral knows this as well as chalcopyrite. It can be a striking rock in its natural state, coming in flashy, metallic, iridescent hues, but this copper mineral can put on a much bigger act than that. Its far bolder illusion occurs after people have treated its surface with acid, giving it a striking blue and purple iridescent tarnish that’s a guaranteed eye-catcher. It’s fittingly nicknamed peacock ore, and many are drawn to its flash and pageantry. But is selling acid-treated chalcopyrite ethical? It all comes down to whether the buyer is aware of the illusion. There’s no problem with anyone enjoying enhanced beauty and theatrics; we just need to be honest about the lie and never let illusion turn into deception. Chalcopyrite may be showing up for you now as a celebration of fantasy, or a caution: Only you know which.
The Bottom Line
ILLUSION
“Enjoy fantasy, but remember what is real.”
One Or More Of These Messages Are For You
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- Fantasy, theatrics, and “playing pretend” can be wonderful, as long as we’re not trying to fool anyone, and as long as they don’t replace what’s real.
- If you’ve gotten caught up in something fantastical, make sure you’re keeping a firm grasp on what’s actually real and true.
- You may be someone gifted in fiction or theatrical arts.
- If you’ve ever felt drawn to acting, costumery, makeup, hairstyling, set design, or the like, this is your sign to explore that interest further.
- If you’ve been masking your true personality as a way to survive, don’t be hard on yourself, just be sure to stay in close touch with who you really are.
- Video games hijack the human drive for competency by making you think you’re gaining real-life skills when you’re not. Enjoy your games, but make sure you’re developing some skills in the real world as well.
- Similarly, social media can make you feel like you have friends and community when you don’t. Do a quick soup check: How many of people you know would (or could) bring you soup if you were sick?
