Gnomes is generally used as a general term for a all earth spirits, however not all have the traditional correspondences / characteristics as the traditional Gnome. You may also encounter a Brownie, Thorn Break, or Dryads as well. Gnomes like garden retreats, Dryads may dwell within a particular tree, Thorn Breaks in a bushy hedge. They may also attach themselves to a house or a person. They will remain at the house or with the person as long as they are in the elementals good graces. They are said to appreciate things of the earth such as shiny metals (like coins), gems, pretty stones, marbles, and seem to respect good craftsmanship. For those fortunate enough the have a garden and house Gnome, they may place blue marbles or silver coins around for the entertainment of the spirits. Many who host house Gnomes never pick up loose change should it fall but leave it for their "guests" enjoyment. Earth elementals are the easiest to contact, and are the closest "vibrationally" to humans.
These are thought to live in t he highest "vibrational" rate, as such, they are usually the last to be seen by the Pagan adventurer who steps into the elemental spheres. They are found in places of air. As a general class they are known as Slyphs. They act to maintain balance within nature and oversee all undertakings of the elements of air. They may be discovered in storm clouds, whirlwinds, tornadoes, and hurricanes, as well as the gentle breeze that cools a summer day. When you see a spiraling breeze whirling the autumn leaves into the air, look for creatures of the air amongst them. A sudden wind on a still night may be the spirits of air extending their greetings to you. Among the creatures of air, are Fairies / Faeries, Aroma Sprites (who thrive on the scents carried on t he breezes) and the Alven. The air spirits tend to have an appreciation of finery, favor elegant fabrics like silk - especially if it is yellow. Flowers and perfumes are gifts that honor them. Keep them around if you wish to do them honor.
Fire elementals are the most incense of the spirits. Known as Salamanders, they are the outlet for the energy that issues from deep within the heart of the earth, as a volcano spewing hot ash and fiery rock. They are the guiding force and essence of this deep flame. In some ways, they may be considered the purest of elemental spirits. Where it is difficult to imagine a Gnome as being comprised as pure earth or rock, or a Sylph being made up of air, Salamanders are fire in body as well as essence. It is a fire that they are about and a fire that honors them. There is no better way to please Salamanders than to build a fire for them. Alternately, they might appreciate something that is dedicated to their element - a stone that embodies the essence of fire such as Volcanic obsidian, or Cornealian, red as true fire. Set out some fiery herbs like myrrh or cinnamon. Better yet, prepare an incense from the herbs and burn it in their honor. Play some music that captures the intensity of the flame, and allow the hearth as it plays.
The Water spirits exist in a world that rolls and flows like the easy rhythm of the waves of the ocean. The Water spirits are known as Undines. Like the others, they are a personification of their element, and are behind the rise and fall of streams, and may be seen on the crests of the waves, as they roll in from the great expanse of the ocean. They store and release energy into the natural order, as well as support and sustain the creatures who dwell within the waters of the earth. Some types of Water Elementals are Water Sprites, Nixies, Kelpies, and Water Babies. their enjoyment of water is so complete that they may tend to forget, when you visit them, that you are not of their realm. Some have reported that water spirits have kept them playing and swimming a long time in the waters, until breath and strength were all drained from them. It is almost as if there is a lack of understanding how any being who loves the water could quit its comfort. Captured by their enchantments, a visiting Pagan may find the water spirits as potentially devastating as they are delightful. They appreciate things of beauty, especially those reminiscent of the water. One may honor them by leaving blue beads, moonstones, combs of mother of pearl, or gifts of silver.
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