“THE STONE” is an interesting mental effect.
The performer gives something small to a spectator to keep in her pocket or some other safe places, but not to look at it yet.
He then brings out a velvet pouch and pours out its contents – 6 differently coloured gem stones that are usually associated with fortune telling and healing.
The performer asks the audience if they usually read the manual of any item that they purchase. Some of the audience members will say that they usually do not read the manual but fiddle with the item, and in the process, learn how to use or operate the product.
The performer brings out 4 small envelopes. Inside each envelope is a specific set of instructions on what to do with the stones.
He takes out the first instruction from the first envelope. It reads “1. Take 3 stones out of the pouch.” The spectator does so.
From the second envelope, he takes out the instructions “2. Select 1 of the stones you took out.” The spectator complies.
The performer takes out the third instructions from the third envelope. It reads “3. Place all the remaining stones back in the pouch.” Again the spectator complies.
From the last envelope, the performer takes out the intructions “4. Hold the selected stone in your hand.”
The performer reiterates that although the spectator follows all the 4 instructions, the decisions she made on the stones are all of her own choices. She is asked to bring out the item she has been holding for safe keeping. This is one of the 6 gem stones and it matches the one she is left holding in her hand! Well, if you follow the instructions in the manual, you will achieve a wonderful conclusion!
You receive everything necessary to perform the effect, plus a link to a 20 minutes video tutorial in the Korean language. However there are subtitles in the English language. You are supplied 6 gem-like stones plus one which is a duplicate of one of the 6 stones. You are also given the 4 instruction cards and 4 small envelopes, and a velvet pouch to carry the stones.
Once you understand the principle involved, you will be able to perform the effect which depends on what stones were selected by the spectator. The instructions include some nuances and subtleties on how to handle the instruction cards and the envelopes.
The premise of this mental effect is interesting. It involves reading a manual. The colour stones also arouses the curiosity of the audience. In only 4 instructions, you are able to conclude the effect successfully.
If you understand the principle involved, the effect is almost self-working. It appears you have nothing to do with the effect. You merely show each instructions in turn. The spectator is the one who makes all the decisions. To the uninitiated, this is truly amazing. (Rated 5/5 stars)
