Rockin’ Rock Boffin By Anthony Kilner There’s something about living and working with crystals that is simply special. When I came across Bianca McGuirk whose life is crystals, it was worth digging a little deeper into her life. Who is Bianca? “I am the eldest daughter in my family, I have children, am a crazy cat lady, love Australian music, travelling and would happily live under a rock. I am SheEarth’s resident Rock Boffin. I say rock boffin rather than Gemmologist because, whilst I am a certified Gemmologist and Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Australia (FGAA), my interest and experience with gems goes far beyond the scientific identification and classification of stones.” What got you interested in gems, rocks and crystals? “My family have collected and worked with stones for generations and some of my earliest memories are playing with nana and pop’s gems in the back shed. I have always been captivated by them: even if it wasn’t my profession, I’d always work with stones in one way or another.” Has your family been involved in crystals all their lives? “Yes, for many generations. My great-great-great grandmother was one of the first female jewellers in
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Melbourne and my mum grew up travelling around Australia fossicking for gemstones – it is very much in our blood.” Why Gemmology? “I am an eccentric scientist at heart and have always had an inquisitive mind. At school I focused on science subjects and have always had a gift for identifying stones; I could look at a stone and tell you what it was straight away. So, when we started our business and I had other people in the industry bringing stones to me to identify, it was a natural progression to formerly study gemmology.” Working in a crystal shop, what’s the tie up between the physical crystals and spiritual nature of crystals in your life? “My family’s business is based upon our love of gems and we all have our own avenue of interest. For me, I particularly enjoy the intersection between the scientific and metaphysical use of gemstones.
For example, Kunzite is a beautiful stone that can be difficult to obtain, as much of it goes to the medical industry as a source of Lithium for antidepressants. Metaphysically it is used to boost mental health and wellbeing. It’s where the scientific and metaphysical uses align that I find really interesting.” What would be your favourite crystal? “I don’t have just one. I have a whole list and, like most people, I go through phases where I am super keen on certain stones then move forward to others. Some of my all-time favourite minerals are Amazonite, Chrysoprase, Charoite, Carnelian, Amber, Dioptase, Kunzite and Lepidolite. I own far too many pieces of each; I could coat myself in them and it still wouldn’t be enough. “Oh, and I think everybody should own a piece of Black Tourmaline – it’s a Must. Everyone needs at least one good piece of Tourmaline in their life!”
