The Wand

There are two basic types of wands, ones made of wood or ones made of copper insulated by leather.

If you choose to use a wooden wand it should be taken from your own area to keep you in harmony with the land about you.  You will need to research the magical properties of the trees in your locality to make sure you make the best choice.  Native trees should be used so your energy will coincide with that of the land around you.  Energy patterns are different in areas of the country and can vibrate on their own frequencies.

Special care should be taken when removing a branch from a living tree.  Make sure to determine what the pruning season is for that particular species of tree. Call a local nursery if you are unsure.  Maple and Oak trees are normally pruned in the fall season.  You may choose to combine the gathering of this type of wands with the Samhain.  If you choose to gather wands from fruit trees like the Peach or Apple, you may wish to gather them at midnight on Yule.

Before cutting the wand it is best to ask permission.  Explain to the tree why you are taking the branch.  The wand should be of a comfortable weight and be relatively straight.  It should also be approximately 12 to 18 inches in length.  Remember to leave an offering at the base of the tree and sever the aura after you have cut the physical branch.

You may tip your wand with a pinecone or a crystal.  A wand traditionally stands for communication and matters of business.  When dealing with a particular situation of business or communication you would choose the wand over your athame.

Blessed Be

Fairy Star

technorati tags:wicca, information, wand, harmony, wood, leather, copper

The Chalice

    The Chalice or goblet is a symbol of emotion and fertility.  Chalices are used in dedication and incitation ceremonies, certain spells and holiday rituals to honor the Gods/Goddesses.

    Chalices are normally long stemmed and made of any food safe material.  You may design your own by visiting a ceramic shop, choosing your own glazes and firing it your self.  The first firing should be on the New Moon and the second on the Full Moon. You may decorate it with anything that holds meaning to you.

    The type of chalice you use is totally up to you.  The legend of the chalice is an old one, stemming from the times of divine sacrifice of the kings to ensure the prosperity of their people.  In craft rituals, the cup represents the feminine aspect of the Goddess and sometimes used to represent the water element.  The chalice can be use to make libations. In many magickal observances including handfastings, drinking from one cup represents the linking of destiny and unity of purpose. When the athame is lowered into a cup, it symbolizes the divine union of the God and Goddess.

technorati tags:wicca, information, chalices, symbolizes, cup