Which Crystals Are Used In Magic?

Crystal healing is not the only way in which the various properties of crystals, precious stones and gems are utilised, as Wiccans and Pagans also use them for their magical rituals.

Where crystal healers will exploit the energies emanating from the crystals through the natural vibrations of their molecular structure, Wiccans or Pagans use the stones in their workings due to their magical properties as well as their therapeutic value. Different Pagan traditions assign different properties to different crystals, but the intent is the same and Wiccans are often advised to experiment in order to discover which combinations work best for them.

A good example is the popular Amethyst crystal, which is considered a master healer in crystal healing and used in line with the Third Eye Chakra to aid meditation and the expansion of consciousness. In Wiccan magic, Amethyst crystals are used for enhancing the user’s intuitive powers as well as for cleansing and consecrating sacred spaces. Wiccans also associate it with both the Aquarius and Pisces due to its connection with the element water.

Crystal spheres have been used for divination for centuries
Crystal spheres have been used for divination for centuries

Crystal Magic Traditions

Another crystal popular in Wicca Magic is Agate, and while in crystal healing Agate is considered a stabilising stone which brings about balance, Wiccans use it in rituals intended to expose a truth or introduce a new perspective on a particular situation. A balancing stone in Wicca is the Garnet, which is associated with moon magic and used to find balance between the spiritual and physical elements of our humanity. It is strongly associated with femininity, though beware acquiring one through dishonest means as many Wiccan traditions believe that the deep red or purple stone will deliver a curse to the possessor should they have used deceit to obtain it. The belief is that the curse, the exact details of which are unknown (let’s keep it that way, folks!), will remain upon the possessor until the stone is returned to its rightful owner.

On a more light-hearted note, magic practitioners whether Wiccan or Pagan will often use a Jade crystal like these Jade Tumblestones when intending to symbolise true love and innocence. Jade is also popular among Wiccans for its influence on truth and serenity. However, where crystal healing relies solely on the natural energy present in the crystals, Wiccans and Pagans will complete their rituals with a combination of various items or ingredients.

Crystals used in conjunction with nature suit magical practices
Crystals used in conjunction with nature suit magical practices

Wiccan Correspondences

Wiccans and practitioners of esoteric magic use these combinations of various items such as crystals and herbs in what they describe as ‘correspondences’. Their rituals will involve combining different ingredients, which may also include certain numbers, colours and flowers among many other items with magical properties which have a particular significance in their relationship with each other. It’s this correspondence between the particular crystal and other elements that will ultimately influence the outcome of the working or ritual. It is highly recommended to try different combinations to seek out the right correspondence that will be successful for each individual and their own particular working.

While crystal healing can and indeed often does involve combining the different energies of certain crystals to maximise a desired effect, it is usually the effect itself that differs from the magical practices of Wiccans and Pagans. While there are many similarities with regard how both Wiccans and crystal healers view the positive and negative influences of natural energy, there is a marked difference between both the expectations and application of these special stones.

A scrying crystal on display at The Museum of Witchcraft located in Boscastle, Cornwall
A scrying crystal on display at The Museum of Witchcraft located in Boscastle, Cornwall

Wicca Magic vs Crystal Healing

Crystal healing intends to make simple but effective use of the energies through contact and close approximation with the crystals, while Wiccans will perform rituals with the crystals and other elements which will directly bring about the intended effect. And again, the desired effects can differ massively between the two practices, as the Agate and Amethyst examples showed above.

Another great example of this difference is the most famous gemstone in the world: the diamond. Crystal healers consider the diamond to aid in relationships and help clear emotional pain or mental anguish. It is also considered an excellent tool for blocking geopathic or electromagnetic stress. Wiccans, on the other hand, consider the diamond to be the perfect stone to aid them in scrying and astral projection, which is travelling through the astral plane after inducing an out-of-body experience. These aren’t the only associations that this particular gemstone has, but it’s a clear indicator of the sometimes small, but occasionally massive differences between Wicca magic, Paganism and crystal healing.

Agate Slice
Agate Slice
Jade Tumblestone
Jade Tumblestone
Red Almandine Garnet
Red Almandine Garnet

Unusual Uses for Tumblestones

Tumblestones are many people’s favourite kind of crystal due to their smooth, rounded and pebble-like appearance, which allows them to be employed in a wide variety of imaginative ways. They’re created inside a tumbler machine which constantly turns them while various grades of sand and grit are introduced to slowly work away the rough edges until you have a perfectly smooth and rounded crystal.

Marrying a crystal’s natural beauty with this tumbling process creates a crystal whose purpose stretches far beyond being used simply as a healing crystal. Of course, tumblestones with particularly flat sides are especially useful for the laying on stones method of crystal healing as they will remain in place more easily, but the tumbled smoothness also lends itself to crystal massage for example, as you can use smaller tumblestones to knead and relax the muscles throughout your body.

Tumblestones Inspire Tons of Fun
Tumblestones Inspire Tons of Fun

The main purpose of the crystal tumbling process though is to accentuate their aesthetic appeal. Smoothing out the rough edges that form naturally in most rocks, crystals and minerals creates a beautiful ornamental object the uses of which are only limited by our imaginations.

Tumblestones In The Home

One popular use for tumblestones is as vase fillers and many people use them to fill flower vases not only to enhance the decorative effect of the vase but to help hold the flowers at a particular angle by securing their stems between the stones. Similarly, this method can be utilised for items other than flowers, such as a pen or pencil holder as filling a jar or glass with smaller tumblestones lets you insert thin items to keep them in place. It’s hard to deny the value of a beautiful ornament that also serves a useful function. Create a jar filled with tumblestones that match the colours of your bathroom and use it to hold your toothbrushes in place. It’s a much better looking way of storing them when they’re not being used, which is roughly 23 hours and 50 or so minutes of every day, and it can also be cleaner as the brushes won’t rattle around in the glass spattering bits of toothpastey water drops everywhere for a moment after they’re hurriedly replaced.

Tumblestones as Vase Fillers
Tumblestones as Vase Fillers

You can also secure candles within a jar using a small layer of tumblestones around the base of the candle. The smooth surface of the stones means any wax residue that collects on them is easily removed with no damage to the stone, while you can rest assured that the candle is secure and won’t topple over in the wind or after a nudge from a stray elbow. Talking of bases, why not decorate the bottom of your fish bowl with a few tumblestones which will transform a previously bland fish bowl into an interesting and magical-looking underwater realm for your pet fish to explore.

Have Fun with Tumblestones!

Have fun with the kids using tumblestones as well by getting hold of some googly eyes and attaching them to the stones to create lots of cute little creatures. Using hot glue, you can also attach antennae, some little feet or anything you can think of and make a whole bunch of different characters to play with which the kids will have loads of fun helping to make as well as imagining all sorts of adventures for the tumblestone critters to have afterwards.

Tumblestones Googly Eyes
Tumblestones Googly Eyes

Create photo or card holders by attaching one end of some thick but bendable wire to a large tumblestone and twisting the wire at the other end into a paper clip effect which will hold the picture in place. It’s a simple but very effective ornamental device which can be used for all sorts of things from permanent photo displays of your loved ones to temporary reminders, perhaps to hold a wedding invitation or flyer for that show you’ve always wanted to see.

More Tumblestone Ideas

Wire can also be used to make a ‘crystal cage’ which can then be attached to a necklace so you can wear the tumblestones around your neck or smaller ones as bracelets. They glue quite easily and so can be attached to other types of jewellery such as brooches and barrettes, as well as being attached to magnets so you can benefit from the beauty of tumblestones as you’re fetching food from the fridge. You can make all sorts of cool fridge magnets by cutting out shapes like stars or half moons from card and gluing the card to the magnet. Then just glue several small stones to the card in whatever fashion pleases you and voila.

As I said before, the only limits are those set by our own imaginations, so it’s up to us to get creative while experimenting and exploring all the different uses of tumblestones.

A Crystal Cage Pendant
A Crystal Cage Pendant

Meet the Quartz Family

Quartz is the name applied to crystallised and compact forms of silica. This hard mineral is widely found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Despite quartz calling forth images of rich tones of red, green, purple and blue, quartz typically occurs as white or colourless hexagonal prisms. This beautiful mineral usually acquires its colour by imperfections. So what are the most common quartz crystals?

Rose Quartz

Rose quartz possesses a pinkish tone, which has been attributed to being caused by traces of titanium or magnesium. With its gentle pink essence rose quartz is a highly desirable type of quartz crystal that is a popular jewellery accessory.

Rose quartz information:

A common variety: Being a silicon dioxide crystal, rose quartz is one of the most common varieties of the quartz family. This softly-coloured crystal is typically found in a huge form and is occasionally found in clusters of small prismatic crystals.

Spiritual attributes: Rose quartz is known as the stone of the heart, a crystal of unconditional love. Carrying a feminine and soft form of energy, this delicate quartz is associated with healing, peace, tenderness and comfort.

The purposes of rose quartz: This calming and reassuring type of crystal is often used as a means of creating reassurance at times of crisis. Being the stone of love, rose quartz is also a powerful aphrodisiac, rousing sexual desire.

Rose Quartz, the 'Love Stone'
Rose Quartz, the ‘Love Stone’

Milky Quartz

Milky quartz is a white-coloured crystal which is created by tiny fluid inclusions of liquid or gas trapped when the quartz was formed.

Milky quartz information:

A common variety: Milky quartz is possibly the most common variety of crystalline in the quartz family, which can be found almost anywhere in the world.

Spiritual attributes: Sometimes referred to as the ‘snow quartz’, this attractive-looking crystal is associated with peace, tranquillity and innocence. It is believed that milky quartz has a harmonising effect on those who utilise its unique crystal healing.

The purposes of milky quartz: Being a naturally beautiful type of crystal, milky quartz can be found on many forms of jewellery. Also, being a popular spiritual aid to combat chronic fatigue and metabolic disorders, milky quartz tumblestones  and other decorative healing aids are not uncommon.

Milky Quartz for peace
Milky Quartz for peace

Smoky Quartz

Smoky quartz is a stunning black/brown variety of the quartz family. Its unique colour derives from free silicon, which is formed from the silicon dioxide by natural irradiation.

Smoky quartz information:

A common variety: Like other quartz crystals, smoky quartz is a silicon dioxide gem and is one of the most common varieties of the quartz family. This beautiful crystal is found in many parts of the world including China, Australia, Brazil and the U.S.

Spiritual attributes: Smoky quartz is believed to provide a subtle energy of balance and protection.

The purposes of smoky quartz: Because smoky quartz is often naturally irradiated, it is not uncommon for it to be used for treating radiation-related illnesses or to help people undergoing chemotherapy. Its many positive healing qualities are often unlocked through wearing smoky quartz jewellery, such as pendants and power bead bracelets.

Smoky Quartz for protection
Smoky Quartz for protection

Nature’s Most Amazing Crystal Caves

For centuries the natural twinkle, vibrant colour and incredible shapes of crystals have fascinated humanity. In fact the seemingly timeless fascination of crystals have meant that these abundant stones have generated their own spiritual awareness and, for many, are regarded as potent spiritual healers. If your love affair for crystal jewellery or penchant for crystal clusters and tumblestones  comes with aspirations to visit crystal caves, or perhaps you merely want to learn more about the geographical origins of these incredible beautiful nature treasures, take a look at the following four most amazing crystal caves.

“From ancient times to the present day, quartz crystals have been a source of Light to mankind. Highly valued by spiritual leaders and healers as well as scientists, the unique attributes of quartz have played a key role in mankind evolutionary development,”

~ Baer, R “Windows of Light.”

 

Cueva de los Cristales, Mexico

Having been described as being the ‘Cavern of Crystal Giants’, the Cueva de los Cristales in Mexico really is a site to behold. This limestone cavern is situated in a remote area of northern Mexico, approximately an hour to the south of Chihuahua – a region already famous for its crystals. The cave wasn’t discovered until the year 2000 when two brothers came across it whilst drilling nearly 1000 feet below ground in the Naica mine.

This compelling crystal cave is now a top tourist attraction, which takes 20 minutes to reach by van down a twisting mine shaft. To add to the momentousness of the occasion when visitors arrive in the cave, a screen drops from the van’s ceiling and a Michael Jackson video is played.

Cave of the Crystals, Mexico
Cave of the Crystals, Mexico

Crystal Cave, Bermuda

Bermuda might be famous for its white sandy beaches and laid back lifestyle but is comparatively less well known for its astonishing Crystal Caves. If you happen to be in Bermuda then taking a trip to the Crystal Cave is an absolute must.

From rare crystal clusters  clinging like a blanket of stars to the cave’s ceiling to delicate crystallised soda straws protruding from the walls, Bermuda’s Crystal Caves open up a whole new perception of the beauty and fascination of crystals.

Crystal Cave, Bermuda
Crystal Cave, Bermuda

Crystal Cave, Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park in the southern Sierra Nevada in California spans more than 400,000 acres of almost unrivalled beauty. Although as stunning and magnificent is the park in the open air, is its underground landscape.

With huge rooms, ornate marble and breath-taking crystal formations framing an exquisite subterranean stream, exploring Sequoia National Park’s Crystal Cave  will be an unforgettable and treasured experience.

Crystal Cave, Sequoia National Park
Crystal Cave, Sequoia National Park

Reed Flute Cave, Guilin, Southern China

Known as the ‘Palace of Natural Arts’  this awe-inspiring cave in southern China comprises of a mesmerising labyrinth of limestone pillars, stalactites, stalagmites and crystals. The cave got its name because according to legend people believed that the reeds circling the cave’s mouth could be made into flutes.

One of the rooms is known as the ‘Crystal Palace of the Dragon King’ and, as you can imagine, is brimming with remarkable crystals shimmering in the underground grotto.

Reed Flute Cave, Guilin, Southern China
Reed Flute Cave, Guilin, Southern China

How to Clean Your Crystals

Crystals are all about the energy they attract and this is why it’s vital to cleanse them every so often as there are both positive and negative energies which the crystal can collect. A particular crystal might be a potent attractor of positive energy but over time the negative energies can build up.

It is especially important to cleanse your crystals when you first receive them and before you start using them to remove all the energies that gathered in the crystals before they came into your possession. It’s vital to only use crystals that are responding to your own energies, rather than some unknown factor you have zero control over. Luckily, cleansing them is a pretty simple process and there are several ways which you can go about it.

Crystals can be cleansed in sunlight
Crystals can be cleansed in sunlight

There is no absolute rule when it comes to this process and you are at liberty to employ one or several of the crystal-cleaning methods until you are comfortable that they are fully cleansed. Trust your own instincts and feelings regarding your crystals and whether or not you have done enough to remove all the negative energies. The more you work with your crystals, the more you will become attuned to when they need cleaning, though a general guideline would be to cleanse them every few weeks.

Crystal Cleaning Methods

Cleansing a Fluorite wand in sea salt and water
Cleansing a Fluorite wand in sea salt and water

The simplest crystal cleansing technique is to place them in out in the sun for several hours at least to allow the cleansing powers of sunlight to remove the negative energies. Alternatively, some people prefer using moonlight, as it’s regularly available every month (a good schedule for cleaning crystals) and so long as the moon isn’t obscured by cloud cover, you can leave your crystals out over night to cleanse them in the refreshing lunar light.

Flowing water is a very popular method, though it should be noted that this generally means a flowing river or stream. You can use tap water but the effect will be reduced. If you live near a babbling brook or other natural source of flowing water, then this would be the method I recommend. If there’s no natural source nearby, then the water from a tap will suffice as a quick fix, but perhaps should be combined with another cleansing ritual such as using sun or moonlight.

Many crystal healers utilise salt to clean crystals, burying them in dry sea salt and leaving overnight. The salt absorbs the negative energies and thus should be discarded the following day, and certainly not ingested. Some crystals such as malachite and fluorite have softer surfaces and so using salt on them is not recommended due to their susceptibility to scratches. You should also avoid using salt water as it can damage crystals due to its corrosive nature.

Crystals Clean Crystals

Selenite cleans other crystals
Selenite cleans other crystals

Cleanse and recharge your crystals by placing them on the special cleansing crystal Selenite, which is a variety of the mineral Gypsum. Another variety is Satin Spar, and both are ideal crystals for cleansing other crystals due to their extremely high vibrations and the fact that these crystals will not need cleansing themselves. Other crystals with a similar effect are Quartz and Amethyst, although their vibrations are not as high as Selenite.

An all-in-one cleansing method which will not only cleanse your crystals of any negative energy but also the space around them, is to use a singing bowl or clean-ringing bell as the clear tones and chimes will immediately disperse the negativity. An even more spiritual version of this method is to use Buddhist Tingsha prayer chimes which can be purchased online.

Once you have plenty of experience practicing crystal healing, then you will also be able to cleanse your crystals with a visualisation technique which involves picturing a clear blue or white light emanating from within your hands and penetrating the crystal. The visualised light will cleanse the crystal of its negative energies and recharge it ready to be used for some quality crystal healing once again.

How to Prepare for a Crystal Healing Session

Crystals have been used for healing around the world for thousands of years. Different cultures have used various crystals as a means of thwarting ailments and illnesses. According to practitioners of crystal healing, when the stones are placed in the area of the chakras, the crystal will bring energetic properties for those seeking healing.

Before you start your crystal healing make sure you research crystal properties and all the positive actions the different stones are used for. If you want to start exploring and experimenting with this age-old curative method, take a look at how to prepare for a crystal healing session.

Choose your Crystal

Different crystals have different energies and properties. Crystal healers believe that between the different energies and properties we can affect the emotional, spiritual, physical and mental aspects of ourselves. Before you begin a crystal healing session, you will need to use the right crystal for the ailment you are aspiring to combat. For example, a Tigers Eye crystal is used as an aid for those seeking clarity. Rose Quartz is a popular type of stone in crystal healing, which is used as a tool to nurture calming and instigate romance, while Lapis Lazuli is said to expand awareness and help us attune to our intuition. Lapis Lazuli was prized by the Ancient Egyptians who believed this crystal protected them from the evil eye. If you are serious about practising crystal healing on others, it would be wise to have a diverse range of crystals in order to be able to target and relief different conditions.

Specific crystals are used in directed crystal healing
Specific crystals are used in directed crystal healing

Crystals for Pain Relief

Crystals are commonly used as an aid to help individuals overcome back pain. Apatite is one type of crystal that is used as an instrument to ease back pain. The apatite crystals should be placed at various points of the back in align with the chakra points. By utilising these points, healing energy will be implemented in the body which will fight the source of pain.

You may be trying to overcome insomnia, stress, alcoholism or nervousness. Whatever ailment you are tackling you will need to be aware of the different properties of each crystal. For example, the purple, lilac or mauve shades of the amethyst gemstone are associated with reducing withdrawal symptoms. In fact the word amethyst comes from the Greek meaning “without drunkenness” and is believed to protect one from poison. This soothing, healing stone is said to encourage spiritual development, clear the aura and refresh the spirit, body and mind.

A competent practitioner can help you with your crystal healing.
A competent practitioner can help you with your crystal healing.

Jade, the Dream Stone

Jade has also been serving mankind for nearly 6,000 years. For the primitive people of the British Isles, the toughness of this stone and the ability to sharpen and polish it, made jade a favourite stone for knives, weapons and axe heads. The indigenous tribes of Mexico took this further and carved jade into deity masks and other ritual artefacts and then cast it into wells as an offering to the water spirits. Today this stunning crystal is still valued for its metaphysical properties. It is believed to be the ultimate “dream stone”, promoting sleep, sweet dreams and encouraging creativity.

Jade Healing Stone
Jade Healing Stone

Top 10 Crystals for Protection

Crystals don’t just make eye-catching jewellery and stunning ornaments. Many believe these beautiful precious stones have protective powers and can help keep us and our loved ones safe. Although one crystal’s powers to protect and look after can vary significantly to another crystal’s spiritual capabilities. To ensure that you choose the right crystal for the right kind of protection read the following top ten guide to what kind of safety and security different crystals reputably bring.

Carnelian Pyramid
Carnelian Pyramid
Peridot & Silver Pendant
Peridot & Silver Pendant
Smoky Quartz Crystal Beads
Smoky Quartz Crystal Beads



1 – Carnelian
Ancient Egypt used to exploit the alleged protective powers of carnelian. This beautiful and fiery carnelian stone is believed to provide strength, courage and protection to individuals who have been undermined, feel weakened or who have lost their confidence. As well as bringing courage to those who feel frightened, this polished precious stone protects the body and the mind of all who own it.

2- Peridot

Its stunning green and shimmering look means peridot is a popular choice of jewellery embellished with crystals. Apart from its obvious aesthetic qualities, traditionally peridot has been used to ward off the evil eye. As well as the ancient Egyptians using peridot to keep evil spirits at bay, it is also believed that this stunning emerald crystal comforts its owners and rids the heart of bitterness and negativity.

3- Smoky Quartz

From smoky quartz crystal beads to smoky quartz drilled tumblestone, this classy and traditional looking type of crystal has long been associated with providing protection and uplifting depression.

4- Jet

Jet black, shiny and smooth; if there’s one type of crystal that looks like it has healing powers, it’s jet. Traditionally used as a mourning stone, jet is believed to have protective powers and to neutralise any negativity.

5- Black Tourmaline

Another crystal with a dark and mysterious exterior, black tourmaline is a compelling looking crystal that looks like it means business and according to spiritual crystal folklore, it does mean business. When it comes to crystals that have the power to protect against negative energy, promote relaxation and eradicate tension, black tourmaline is supposed to be one of the most potent. Reap the protective powers of black tourmaline by wearing it round your neck. This stunning black tourmaline crystal pendulum with its high polish and subtle sparkle when it catches the light, certainly looks like it means business in the protection stakes.

6- Bloodstone

This dark crystal which is flecked in red is one of the most aesthetically-unique crystals in existence. According to legend, this ‘spiritual warrior’ can help a person find courage to tackle all kinds of obstacles that lie in their path.

Azurite Specimen
Azurite Specimen
Jet Tumblestone
Jet Tumblestone
Black Tourmaline Pendulum
Black Tourmaline Pendulum



7- Azurite

This beautiful blue crystal is associated with Vishuddha, the centre which governs our speech and creative expression. The highly spiritual Azurite is purported to encourage a deep meditative state, which is detoxifying and will aid intellect and communication, thus protecting us from communicative ailments.

8- Ruby

With its natural red tones ruby is one of the most popular types of crystals in existence. Being associated with passion ruby is a popular choice of crystal for lovers but what are its protective powers like? Apparently ruby is associated with root chakra, which is linked with grounding and protection, particularly when it comes to libido.

9- Hematite

In helping to absorb negative energy, hematite is associated with having calming powers in times of stress and worry. This beautiful crystal has a glittery and sparkling surface which augments its intrigue and mystery. This compelling-looking crystal certainly looks like it would have the power to dispel negative energy.

10- Malachite

Another stunningly green crystal, malachite is also widely believed to have potent protective powers. Malachite is said to possess equalising and balancing agents, which can help protect brittle and fragile bones.

 

 

Best Crystals for Love and Romance

A new year, a new romance. If you are looking for a new romance in 2014 or are looking to rekindle some romance in an existing relationship, let crystals lend you a helping hand. For centuries crystals have been associated with building strong and positive relationships and being a source of aiding love and romance.

Whether it is to mend a broken heart, express love, attract a soul mate, nurture eroticism or to help build a healthy relationship, crystals have long been considered as a potent love and romance stimulus. That’s not to say all crystals and gemstones are associated with being a positive relationship-builder. Take a look at the top five crystals that are believed to have romance- motivating properties and what they can do for someone who is looking for love.

Malachite & Silver Pendant
Malachite & Silver Pendant
Ruby Crystal Massage Wand
Ruby Crystal Massage Wand
Rose Quartz Pendant
Rose Quartz Pendant

Rose quartz

With its gentle pink essence, rose quartz is widely known as a crystal which helps heal the heart chakra, the crystal of unconditional love. This beautiful type of crystals is believed to have a gentle energy that helps you accept, respect and love yourself, all essential qualities that help you love someone else. Known as the heart stone, rose quartz has been used as a symbol and token of love since 600 B.C. When worn close to the heart in the form of a pendant, it is believed that rose quartz can help you fall in unconditional love.

Ruby

If you are looking for passion then ruby is associated with having the power to ignite or rekindle passion in a relationship. With its six-sided crystal prisms, rubies are purported to cleanse the chakras, promoting love and commitment as well as passion and romance. Use a ruby crystal massage wand to inspire passion and deepen emotional bonds in 2014.

Moonstone

Moonstone is widely referred to as the “Goddess Stone”, which has been traditionally related to emotional feelings, intuition, the heart and fertility. This softly toned crystal is often worn as a pendant to encourage acceptance and heighten physical capabilities. Being aligned to the moon, moonstone is said to be ideal for men who want to get in touch with the their softer ‘feminine’ side and for women who like to dominate in a relationship.

Jade

Jade is considered to be the crystal of wisdom, which promotes nurturing and love. It is believed that jade helps its wearer recognise who they are spiritually, sending them on a journey of self-discovery. It helps attract a loving and fulfilling relationship, protecting the wearer from emotional harm.

Malachite

Malachite is named after the Greek word for “mallow”, a type of herb. With its soothing and calming properties, this polished green crystal is said to be the bringer of balance and harmony. From malachite mosaics to a malachite and silver pendant, this unique stone brings feminine power and opens the heart to unconditional love, the perfect crystal to help you find your soul mate in 2014.

Beginners Guide to Crystal Healing

Laying on of Stones
Laying on of Stones

Crystal healing and the use of crystals has been around for a long, long time, with the earliest known references to crystal use having been recorded by the Ancient Sumerians who date back further than three thousand years.

The Ancient Egyptians also made great use of crystals and gemstones in their amulets and jewellery, with their main purpose being to either protect against evil or to boost their health. They even had a particular crystal for curing nightmares and purging evil spirits, Chrysolite, which has since been translated as both topaz and peridot.

Both are still used today and associated with uplifting energy which help create a positive state of mind and general well-being.


The Ancient Greeks were also fond of crystals, and many of the modern day crystal names originate with their original Ancient Greek monikers. The popular amethyst crystal, for example, actually derives from the Greek words meaning ‘not intoxicated’ and was believed to protect the wearer from drunkenness. Even today, it is a crystal used primarily for its protective powers and healing energy.

Many people nowadays are still interested in the same crystals used throughout history. Crystal healing can be something of a mystery to the uninitiated as many of us often won’t know exactly where to start because of how many different kinds of crystals there are, all with their own particular energies and influences. It can be intimidating to begin trying to figure it all out and learn what each crystal does and which ones are ideal for us.

First of all, rest assured that there’s no particular path set out for each of us and it’s really down to your own intuition how you go about it. There are some crystals which are great starting points though, and which can be especially useful for beginners

The Power of Healing Crystals

Smoky Quartz Polished Point
Smoky Quartz Polished Point
Amethyst Double Stone Pendulum
Amethyst Double Stone Pendulum
Citrine Healing Crystal
Citrine Healing Crystal



As previously stated, the Amethyst Crystal has incredible healing powers which can affect the entire body. It is also a powerfully spiritual crystal which is ideal for meditative purposes.

Quartz is believed by many to be the most important of the healing crystals, as it will channel and amplify natural energy due to its helical spiral crystalline form. There are several different kinds of quartz, such as Clear Quartz, Smokey Quartz and Rose Quartz, so a beginner should definitely look into the values of each and make this special crystal one of the first they get to know.

Citrine is an interesting healing crystal as it is associated with self-confidence and luck, while also believed to have a strong bearing on financial prosperity. It is also thought to stimulate the imagination while bringing joy and a positive outlook on life to the user.

Tourmaline comes in a variety of colours each with their own properties, but it is often referred to as the ‘Stone of Wisdom’. Black Tourmaline is believed to protect against negative energies by turning them into positive energies, though all of them have a strong protective power which many users find extremely useful.

Once you have discovered the crystal you think will have the most benefit for you, there are several ways which you can use them. The simplest way is to wear the crystal for a period of time to allow its energies to have their influence. This is an especially useful method for crystals that work slowly but continuously such as jasper crystals which are said to soothe nerves and keep you calm, but it can still be good even with crystals whose influence is known to move fast.

However, faster working crystals might be of most benefit when used in short bursts, such as the Laying on Stones Method where you place the crystals upon the corresponding Chakra points, which are a series of points in the body leading up from the base of your spine to your crown where the crystals are most effective. This can be an incredibly relaxing method of using crystal healing.

Surrounding yourself with crystals can also work wonders. The best way to maximise their influence in this manner is to create a healing space or meditation area where you can arrange the crystals in a circle around the area where you will meditate. The healing space needs to be comfortable, quiet and without distractions, somewhere you can relax and focus on your meditation. Using crystals this way is one of the most popular methods and can help you even when you are away from the area, perhaps stressed at work, because you always know you have this space to enter and let go of the negative energies that we can pick up throughout the day.

However you choose to begin using crystals and whichever crystals you choose to start with, you can rest assured that you are partaking in a healing system that has existed for thousands of years and has only improved in technique during that time.

Crystals for New Year Happiness Part 2

In part 1 we revealed a selection of the amazing healing crystals perfect for inspiring happiness and prosperity in the New Year. Today we continue the story, with some more excellent healing crystals that will benefit you as the year moves onwards.

Remaining positive is key to success, and we can help ourselves remain positive by influencing the energy around us in our homes, workplace and healing spaces by ensuring that the energies present there promote our goals of achieving the happiness and prosperity which are ultimately the things which make life the most wonderful gift of all.

You can use each healing crystal by lying on your back and placing it on the area of the body or Chakra that it is associated with. This can be done with a combination of crystals or by focusing on just one of the healing crystal’s energies. Learn more about the Chakra System here by reading full instructions for both meditation methods and gain more insight into how the Chakras work and all the different crystals and colours that affect them.


Sodalite Healing Crystal
Sodalite Healing Crystal

SODALITE may sound like a diet fizzy pop drink, but it’s actually a calming and communicative healing crystal that helps clear the mind while bringing joy into your heart. The Sodalite Healing Crystal is known to encourage the realisation of our ambitions whilst also positively influencing self-acceptance and the awareness of self.

Sodalite Crystal Information:

  • Chakra Alignment: Throat (Fifth Chakra).
  • Spiritual Attributes: Calmness, happiness and resolution maintenance.
  • Physical Attributes: Aids the metabolism and balances the lymphatic system.
  • Usage: Placed around the home or healing space, Sodalite will inspire heartfelt joy while helping us achieve our goals.


  • Amethyst Healing Stone
    Amethyst Healing Stone

    AMETHYST is one of the most popular crystal healing stones and for good reason. It is an extremely soothing stone which helps banish negativity from our minds by clearing out bad thought patterns. Amethyst Healing Stones are powerful healers, cleansing and blocking out negative energies and geopathic stress.

    Amethyst Crystal Information:

  • Chakra Alignment: Brow or Third Eye (Sixth Chakra).
  • Spiritual Attributes: Soothing, negativity blocking, healing and cleansing.
  • Physical Attributes: Helps the immune system, stimulating blood circulation.
  • Usage: Keep several placed around the home or office to keep a constant guard against negative thought patterns which can disrupt our search for happiness.


  • Howlite Healing Crystal
    Howlite Healing Crystal

    NATURAL HOWLITE encourages new ideas and helps bring them into focus. Thus, it is ideal for this time of year as we make our New Year’s resolutions and sometimes need that little bit of extra help to keep true to them. Also associated with purity, Natural Howlite Healing Crystals are believed to eliminate angry thoughts and calm violent anger.

    Natural Howlite Crystal Information:

  • Chakra Alignment: Crown (Seventh Chakra).
  • Spiritual Attributes: Calming and idea inspiring.
  • Physical Attributes: Good for our bones and teeth.
  • Usage: Place Natural Howlite upon the forehead while lying down to increase your creativity and soothe your thoughts. It is also purported to aid in past-life journeys.