Tools of the Trade
"The power is found not in the rods, but in the diviner."
Divining rods do not contain the power of divination. The ability is found in the diviner. The rods are merely a conduit or tool used to channel the ability of the water witch. As such, different tools have been used to channel this craft and interpret the results.
Marc uses L-shaped divining rods (also called "angle rods") crafted of copper. Brass rods are also commonly used. Rods of different thicknesses and lengths are chosen as a matter of preference once the individual determines which works best for them. The short end is held in the hand and the long end is pointed outward - similar to the fashion one might hold a water pistol. The typical response from L-shaped rods involve the rotation of the rods in the hands of the user. They can rotate inward and cross to form an "X" which typically indicates a positive or "yes" response. Lack of movement typically indicates a negative or "no" response. If desired, the rods can also rotate together and give an indication of direction (examples include locating magnetic north or determining the direction of flow for an underground water source).
In addition to metal rods, Y-shaped tree branches from willow, hazel or birch trees, or fruit trees like apple, cherry or peach, are also used. In this case, the user holds the top of the "Y" in his hands and points the base of the Y forward. The top lengths of the Y should be about 18 inches in length, while the forward-pointing base should be cut short, to a length of about 3 inches or so. A positive response to water would involve the base of the Y bending toward the ground to indicate location. While this type of instrument is common with dowsers, Marc prefers to use his copper rods.
Another common divining instrument is the pendulum. Suspended in one hand, a pendulum can give similar positive and negative responses and indicate position by a response when held over a particular location. Marc also experiments with this form of divining. Pendulums can be made from a variety of elements. A length of lightweight chain or string, commonly about 6 inches in length, is used to suspend an object. The suspended object should weigh a few ounces and is often made of wood, metal or the ever-popular crystal, but any number of items can be used and are widely available. Different movements (circular, back and forth) represent different responses. Speed and size of the movement can also indicate different responses. You will need to experiment to find how a particular pendulum responds to you.