posted September 26, 2006 06:42 PM         

I was wondering if anyone on here know what tree they come from or heard of this custom?

posted September 26, 2006 08:31 PM         

Ormosia amazonica (Huayruro)
Grows in a pod on tall trees in the rainforest. Even though it is very poisonous if chewed, it is the all time favourite good luck seed. It is carried always by many people somewhere on their bodies, and put on children and babies in the form of a little bracelet. It is reputed to ward off any kind of bad luck, protect you from jinxes, and keep away the evil eye. Its natural bright red and black coloring, and hard long lasting character make it a classic among good luck seeds. It is sometimes even mounted in gold settings.

Huayruro Seed is a symbol of good luck at inka culture
http://www.maya-ethnobotanicals.com/product_list.phtml?category=

http://www.huayruroperu.com/about.htm

posted September 26, 2006 08:38 PM         

Shiva Lingam's are said to have one of the highest frequency vibration rates of all the stones on earth. As such, the vibration is said to be perfect for purification purposes, whether at home, work or in an area of sacred space.

The shape of the stone represents male energy (knowledge) and the markings, which differ greatly from stone to stone, represent female energy (wisdom). Together the two elements signify the merging of male and female energy and the stones can act as a reminder to us to balance our own male-female energies and create a more harmonious state of being.

In India, the only place where they're found, they're regarded as being sacred and holy stones and are highly thought of in both Hindu and Buddhist belief systems.