By Katrina Rasbold
Hag stones are stones with naturally occurring holes in or through them, usually composed of a sedimentary stone called chert. Shaped by the tides over hundreds of years, these unique stones have myriad magical uses.
Also known as “the Great Mother Stone,” “Odin’s Stone,” and “Holey Stones,” Hag stones are receptive and feminine in nature, sacred to the Cailleach, the Divine Hag and an ancient Celtic Crone goddess. As such, the hag stone conveys sacred Crone energy and wisdom when worn or carried.
The protective qualities of a hag stone prevents nightmares and repels negative energy, including the Evil Eye.
It is called a “seeing stone” because a “through and through” hag stone where the hole continues completely through the stone is thought to be a visionary tool that allows you to see what you cannot normally see, including personal insights and wisdoms that we consciously avoid, spirits, and fairies.
Widely known for its healing energies, some people tie a ribbon through the hole in a hag stone and tie it to a bedpost for protection, especially in the cribs of infants. As you can see, one of mine is on a chain and I wear it sometimes for extra protection. The other one houses my favorite pendulum that I use for healing work.
There is a Hoodoo tradition that says that magic does not work on a moving body of water, which is why a moving body of water is often how practitioners dispose of their used spell components, in modern times, of course, being mindful of polution and littering considerations. Since the holes in hag stones are formed by moving water, the belief conveys onto the stone that it will protect the wearer from magical attack and “only good things can pass through the hole.”
Lastly, many people who love hag stones believe that “you do not find the hag stone, it finds you,” so when it is time for you to have one, one will manifest.
Katrina Rasbold is a professional Witch, published author, priestess, and editor of Green Egg Magazine. She and her husband, Eric, are the creators of the CUSP spiritual path and owners of Crossroads Occult. She and Dahlia Rose host the popular livestreamed video broadcast “Crossroads of Cognizance” most Thursday afternoons. You can reach her through www.katrinarasbold.com.