Crystals & Minerals – Blog on Crystal Healing, Jewellery & Gemstones

Top 5 Crystal & Mineral Holiday Destinations

With hundreds upon hundreds of uniquely-formed crystals winking intermittently in the light, crystal destinations have long been a favourite haunt for gemstone lovers. If wearing a beautiful crystal necklace round your neck or the Amethyst cluster that sits pride of place on your mantel piece simple isn’t enough to satisfy your insatiable thirst for crystals, you may want to think about going on a crystal and mineral holiday.

But where would you go? Take a look at the following five top destinations that are a big hit for crystal lovers around the world.

Cox’s Cave, Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, UK

cheddar_MG_2045 — ***For more information about Cox’s Cave visit the Cheddar Gorge website.***

This celestial underground world is brimming with wonderful crystal sculptures, mirror pools and almost fantasy fountains. This spiritual universe of crystals and other fascinating cave life is enhanced by gentle choral background music.

What’s more you can even go on The Crystal Quest, which will take you an underground journey based on the ancient beliefs of Norse sagas and Greek odysseys. This magical world is a real treat for adults and children alike, but especially those who have a penchant for crystals.

Sainte Marie-aux-Mines Mineral Show 2014

Each year the second largest crystal and mineral event in Europe is held in Sainte Marie-aux-Mines, a small town in the Alsace Mountains in France. This year this fascinating show is being held on 26 June – 29 June.

Nearly 900 exhibitors from around the world gather at this mesmerising show, pulling in a crowd of more than 25,000 mineral enthusiasts. The streets of this quintessential French village are full of tents and marques brimming with a diverse range of minerals, gems, meteorites and fossils. Crystal and mineral enthusiasts simply cannot miss the Sainte Marie-aux-Mines Mineral Show 2014.

The Crystal Caves, Niaca Mine, Chihuahua, Mexico

mexico-mine — ***For more information about The Crystal Caves, visit the website.***

Unbelievably, miners only discovered Mexico’s Crystal Caves which lie 1,000 feet below the Niaca Mine in Chihuahua 13 years ago. Home to crystals believed to be 600,000 years old, these caves a without question a top holiday destination for crystal lovers.
With its specific climate, icy-coloured gems of huge sizes really are a sight for sore eyes. Conditions are so harsh here, that tourists visiting the caves have to be supervised by scientists – An unforgettable crystal experience for any fan of these sparkling formations.

Houston Fine Mineral Show 2015, Texas, USA

From Somerset to Mexico, France and now Houston, crystal lovers really do have an excuse to travel the world. From 24 – 26 April 2015, crystal champions should head to Houston, Texas, for the Houston Fine Mineral Show, one of the biggest highlights of the crystal show calendar.

Some of the biggest names in crystal and mineral dealing present their wares in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Houston is of course also home to the internationally-renowned Houston Museum of Natural Science, which is one of the finest crystal museums in the United States.

Crystal Cave, Bermuda

Situated on the island of Bermuda this compelling cave features a 55-feet deep blue underground lake. At the bottom of the lake are a diverse variety of stunning crystal formations. As the water is so translucent, visitors can view these beautiful natural entities at their leisure – Quite simply a must for crystal aficionados everywhere.

Find your Favourite Crystal Animal

Calling all lovers of animals and crystals, you’re really in for a treat! You can now combine your two passions with your favourite crystal formed into the shape of your favourite animal. As we know different crystals withhold different spiritual meanings and healing powers. Similarly animals carry meaning, wisdom and power, with different animals owning varying symbolism. Combine the two together and collect crystal animals’s, not only do you get a thoroughly unique and interesting object but you are have a deeply symbolic and powerful crystal in your possession.

Quartz Crystal Dog

Throughout history dogs have represented guardians and protectors, earning the deserved reputation as being ‘as man’s best friend.’ Our faithful canine pets are a symbol of reliability, nobleness, loyalty, friendship, unconditional love and possess a fierce energy of protection.

Quartz also has powerful energising abilities, absorbing and releasing vigour and strength. Put the protective nature of dogs with the energising attributes of quartz together and not only do you have a beautiful hand-crafted quartz crystal dog ornament but also a powerful symbolic object of protection.

Amethyst Cat

cat-crystal

In the spiritual world, amethyst has long been regarded as a calming stone. The serene pastel hues of these beautiful crystal drives deep into our spiritual, emotional and physical planes, leaving us balanced, calm, patient and at peace with ourselves.

Cats also have potent symbolic meanings. Our feline friends provide guardianship. They radiate sensuality and have a unique intuition that is a rare symbolic animal trait. Magic is also very much at the core of a cat’s symbolism.

When these two powerful mystic forces unite, you can enjoy the beautiful individualism of both amethyst and cats, as well as their prevailing symbol presence.

The Jade Carved Crystal Pig

**Hand Carved Pigs are a pig collectors delight! Get yours here!**

The pig has long been regarded as a symbol of wealth, prosperity and luck. It is said that if the pig is your personal totem, you will learn from the creature’s determination and intuition. In short, the pig helps you take the right actions in your life.

The popular gemstone jade is also valued for its metaphysical properties and legendary uses. Jade is believed to bless whoever lays their hands upon it. Jade is the ultimate ‘dream stone’, leaving its owners with unique creative, ritualistic and insightful capabilities.

Naturally when these two powerful forms meet, the Jade Carved Crystal Pig creates coercive symbolism – If your favourite animal is a pig and your number one crystal is jade, you are in for a treat.

Black Tourmaline Bear

bear-symbol-crystal — ***Read more about the Native American Bear Meaning here!***

Bears possess primal power. The gentle strength of these mighty beasts make them a potent healer that is nurturing and protective. If we walk into the path of a bear it is believed we will be blessed with symbolic wisdom and strength. The native people of north America believe the bear is as free in spirit as the great wind.

Equally as spiritual is black tourmaline. This unique-looking crystal is best known for its purifying, spiritual and, similar to the bear, protective spiritual influences.

Put these two coercively protective forms together and you are left with an extremely pervasive symbol of protection and nurture.

Eye Catching Agate Bookends

What’s the most versatile crystal of all? It’s a tough question to answer but you’d be hard pushed not to include Agate as a contender. One of the reasons Agate is such a versatile gemstone is due to the fact it is found all over the world, in almost every colour of the rainbow. From rich blues to hot pinks, deep purples to vibrant turquoise, Agate comes in a myriad of hues. Consequently this beautiful precious stone is used in jewellery and as ornaments in many different guises, even bookends.

Yes, so beautiful, individual and sacred is Agate that it is now being used in homes as a novel, interesting and stylish way to hold stacks of books together. As well as looking fantastic and being a talking point when friends and family come to the house, owners of Agate bookends will also enjoy the unique energy effects of this truly unique crystal.

Balance And Protection

***Agate is formed in nearly all colors, from clear transparent crystals, to banded stones of earthy hues.***

It has long been believed that Agate can improve concentration and balance out any unequal energy in a room. By enhancing mental function, improving perception, analytical abilities and concentration, Agate is the perfect gemstone to bring to a space designed for reading. Asides its mental qualities, the unique empowering qualities of Agate means it is said to be able to soothe, calm and alleviate tension and inner anger, creating a sense of safety and security. The unrivalled protecting and mentally stimulating properties of Agate means it is the ideal stone to have present in a room designed to be quiet, relaxing and mentally empowering.

A Potent Interior Design Accessory

Combining natural style and positive crystal energy, these agate crystal bookends are a wonderful gift for housewarmings, birthdays and any occasion. — ***Agate is believed to aid concentration and create harmony, so these bookends are ideal for a busy home or office.***

Increasingly homeowners and interior designers that are ‘in the know’ are weaving crystals and gemstones into interiors to create a distinct, stylish and energising living environment. Coming in numerous colours and shades, Agate bookends complement a wide range of colour palettes and décor. For example, these rich blue Agate bookends will brighten up a room of virtually every colour and style. By contrast, if you are looking for bookends to really stand out, these pink Agate bookends will add colour, depth and intrigue to even the most drab of interiors. Or perhaps you want bookends that blend more seamlessly into existing décor. In this case, natural grey/brown Agate bookends are likely to be the most suitable colour, bringing a touch of style and class into any room.

A Striking Yet Useful Ornament

Agate Geodes - Blue — **Agate Geodes – Blue**

Agate Geode - Mauve — ***Agate Geode – Mauve***

Agate Geode - Pink — ***Agate Geode – Pink***

Striking ornaments never fail to rouse conversation and create talking points at dinner parties and other occassions. Agate bookends are certainly striking yet at the same time, being heavy, robust and virtually unbreakable, are the perfect stone to keep stacks of books in place. What’s more, being the stone that empowers mental qualities and augments concentration, there could not be a more apt material than Agate to be used as decorative and meaningful bookends.

Learn About Crystals & Energy Bonds

From helping boost your career, tuning psychic skills, improving your memory to bringing some passion back into a relationship, is there anything crystals don’t have the power to do? Crystals have had a long tradition with aiding healing and promoting energy and power. Due to a gemstone’s unique internal structure, energy bonds formed vary from crystal to crystal. Consequently, different crystals create different energising effects. Take a look at some of the most powerful energy bonds and effects caused by different crystals.

Empower Love Bonds With Rubies

***Ruby has always been associated with love, especially faithful passionate commitment and closeness.***

Do you dream of rekindling some passion into a now stagnant relationship? Are you looking for a handsome prince to come and sweep you off your feet? Or maybe you strive for someone to love you and show you some affection. Whatever love and romance quests you may seek, Rubies could be the answer.

The passionate energy bonds Rubies are renowned for means that wearing a Ruby pendant around your neck or placing some Ruby Tumblestones in your bedroom can help unleash your inner sexual desires and make you irresistible to your dream partner.

Deepen Friendship Bonds With Rhodonite

**Rhodonite is a known Stone of Inspiration, bringing the inspiration of love via the heart and mind.**

The smooth and polished texture of Rhodonite with its warm and vibrant tones of pinks and reds look both stunning and uplifting. Asides its obvious aesthetic qualities, Rhodonite possesses unique eternal energy bonds, which can help its owners connect with others. Perhaps you had a fall out with your Mum some time ago and would like to arouse the bond you once had? Or maybe you feel yourself and your best friend are drifting apart? Whatever relationship you are unhappy with Rhodonite can help you form a closer bond. The unique energising structures Rhodonite possesses are believed to help strengthen a sense of compassion, empathy and respect for those around you.

Develop A Forgiveness Bond With Topaz

**Blue Topaz has been said to be extremely helpful to those who are angry.**

Topaz was valued deeply by ancient cultures, which considered it aligned with the sun. Over the centuries this stunning precious gemstone has retained its unique capacity to heal and energise. As well as strengthening self-confidence and instilling ambition, creativity and drive in its wearers, topaz can help master forgiveness. It is said that wearing a Topaz pendant close to your heart will augment the empathy you feel towards those around you. It can help you overcome any negative feelings you have towards someone, ultimately promoting forgiveness even in the most stubborn of relationships.

Energy Bonds To Eliminate Adultery With Jade

***Jade is the stone of calm in the midst of storm. Its action balances nerves and soothes cardiac rhythm.***

The smooth touch and calming tones of Jade has meant this beautiful crystal has long been prized for its ability to calm the nervous system and focus the mind. It is also said that the distinct bonds formed by Jade can help protect a relationship and help lovers remain loyal. Known as the stone of fidelity, wearing a Jade piece of jewellery or merely having a piece of Jade stone in the home can prevent partners’ eyes and hands from wandering elsewhere. With Jade, all affections remain where they should be.

Crystals for magic

Crystals are fondly admired for their sparklingly beautiful aesthetics and potent healing powers. Did you know crystals can also be used in magic? As many crystals are attributed to some aspect of human experience, Pagan and Wiccan societies use what they regard as magical crystals to heighten these magical healing powers. Take a look at some of the ways and the different types of crystals that can be used in crystal magic.

How can you implement the ‘magic’ of crystals?

For some people merely having a crystal rock in their pocket enables their bodies to extract the therapeutic powers of the crystal. For example, carrying an Agate Crystal Heart in their pocket will provide an effective way to give them harmony and peace. Others prefer to extract the magical powers of crystals by wearing a stunning piece of gemstone jewellery. For example, wearing a Chakra and Quartz Silver Pendant around the neck enables light to shine through the crystals. The light created by the quartz penetrates into the wearer’s body and by doing so creates a greater flow of energy and helps to balance the mind and spirit. Such a pendant would therefore make the perfect tool in those interested in ‘crystal magic’ and balancing the body, mind and spirit through gemstones.

***Tumblestones are often used making spells or meditating.***

For others, ‘crystal magic’ involves using smaller pieces of crystals, typically in the form of tumblestones, as an aid when making spells or meditating. Tumblestones are crafted by tumble polishing once rough pebbles of crystal. The end result is beautiful smooth and polished pieces of crystal stone, which are perfect for holding and meditating with or, in some instances, making spells. If, for example, you are seeking a way to have greater luck and prosperity in your life, African jade tumble stone is widely believed to be able to grant such fortune on those who believe it. These beautiful green crystals with unique swirls of white running through them, certainly look and feel like they could work magic, even on those most cynical of alternative healing practices.

Visualising with ‘magic crystals’

***Clear Quartz being used when meditating.***

If you are implementing crystals into a meditating routine in order for the ‘magic’ to be most effective, it is important to ‘visualise’ the energy. When you are holding or wearing a crystal, ground and centre yourself, then visualise the Earth’s energy coming through your feet and up through your body.

Picking the right crystal for you

Of course before embarking on ‘crystal magic’, it is important that you pick the right stone to cater for your own special needs and requirements. If, for example, you are seeking balance and protection, agate would be the right crystal for you. To ensure you mediate or ‘make spells’ with the right crystal, take a look at this crystal guide, so you are aware of the unique healing powers of each individual crystal.

Preseli Bluestone: The Stonehenge Stone

The popularity among crystal collectors of Preseli Bluestone has significantly increased over the last decade or so, mostly due to emerging sources making more of it available when once it was extremely scarce. That previous scarcity of Preseli Bluestone was due to its abundance in certain heritage sites which are protected making its acquisition somewhat difficult without some cloak and dagger antics. Or cloak and rock hammer, to be more precise.

Specimens of this special stone can vary in colour quite dramatically, often being speckled with various lighter hues among the mostly blue, green and grey surface. Some polished examples feature very few speckles, while others feature intricate patterns reminiscent of the spectacular nebulas recent space exploration probes have sent back images of.

The Most Famous Bluestone Stones in the World

***Stonehenge, one of the wonders of the world and the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe.***

The famous standing stones of Stonehenge are all made of Preseli Bluestone, which is a metamorphic rock also known as a Dolerite. There are several theories floating around as to how they arrived in the southern English county of Wiltshire from their origin 250 miles away in the Preseli Hills of Pembrokeshire, Wales. Unfortunately, the ancient culture who built Stonehenge left no written records so how it all happened will likely never be truly known.

While there are many magical and supernatural theories surrounding the mysterious arrival of the Stonehenge Preseli Bluestones, it has also been demonstrated that Neolithic technology such as shear legs was more than capable of moving the enormous stones over significant distances.

One thing we know is that the ancient cultures of the time Stonehenge first began being constructed were very keen on using Bluestone, and their preference for it and ability to work it is obvious from the many Bluestone tools and implements that have been discovered in the areas where Bluestone can be found.

A Breakthrough in Preseli Bluestone Procurement

***We have a wide selection of Preseli Bluestone products.***

This historical value of the sites where Preseli Bluestone was abundant was the primary reason why the stones remained extremely rare away from those sites, but a few years ago a small business called Preseli Bluestone Limited (PBL) secured the rights to quarry limited amounts of the valued rock from previously off-limits sites in Pembrokeshire and the availability of the special stones has relatively boomed since.

The availability of these new specimens of Preseli Bluestone allowed crystal healers and collectors to extensively research the metaphysical properties and believed healing energies present in the stones. Their findings were quite incredible and of enormous interest and value to crystal enthusiasts everywhere.

The Magical Aura of Preseli Bluestone

Bluestone already had a reputation as a powerful stone, with ancient lore describing its power being derived from being given as a gift, but the scant examples meant there was little modern research. That all changed when PBL contacted crystal experts Sue and Simon Lilley (authors of ‘The Essential Crystal Handbook’) and asked them to explore the healing properties of the stones they were now able to provide a consistent source of.

Using their connections to experienced crystal healers, the renowned authors discovered that both psychics and ‘sensitives’ were quick to notice the stones’ magical auras, with their investigation revealing the Preseli Bluestone to be a ‘powerful catalyst for spiritual insight and healing’.

Further research reported Preseli Bluestone as having metaphysical properties that can aid with travelling beyond time as well as a tool to connect with the past. Described as a doorway to other dimensions, the stones are believed to have a multitude of healing capabilities.

Using Preseli Bluestone as a Healing Crystal

Stonehenge---Sunset — ***Experience the beauty of Stonehenge.***

Bluestone has a direct correlation to the healing of the head and neck areas, specifically the throat, ears and nose, and thus should be used in conjunction with the Crown Chakra. It has the ability to both relax and energise according to the purpose of its use, while helping simplify complicated relationships through the control and maintenance of emotional stability.

It’s a grounding stone, keeping you steady and clear-headed and can be used to accentuate the use of ritual sounds, movements and colours. Bluestone can be also used in a combination with other crystals, with Clear Quartz especially recommended along with blue coloured crystals.

It is still a relatively rare commodity, so its use and collection should be always bear this in mind as there is a finite amount of it available. But there’s no doubt that Preseli Bluestone has incredible metaphysical properties, and while the methods of transporting those famous stones 250 miles maybe still be a mystery, it has become very clear exactly why those particular stones were chosen.

Amazing Bismuth Crystals

There are plenty of things in the world that can be described as an adventure for the eyes, such as great works of art, sprawling landscapes and a star-filled night sky, just to mention some of the more obvious ones. A less obvious one, however, is a little something discovered deep in the earth’s crust a long time ago.

Bismuth crystals are intricately unique and incredibly flamboyant as if nature has spent centuries carefully crafting them just to impress our artful human minds. And while Mother Nature might need a little help in finishing off this particular masterpiece, she has certainly provided us with one of the most aesthetically wonderful elements we could possibly hope for. The beauty of Bismuth crystals can be mind-bending, but it’s not just a pretty face.

The Many Uses Of Bismuth Crystals

Bismuth has many commercial uses in cosmetics as a pigment, in pharmaceuticals such as Pepto-Bismol and perhaps most notably as a replacement for lead in the casting of printing type and potable water systems.

It is often overlooked for the more well-known crystals such as Quartz or Amethyst, but Bismuth crystals have actually been around for an extremely long time as it is counted as one of the first ten metals ever discovered (due to its classification as one of the ‘other metals’, which are weaker metalloids that display significant non-metallic chemistry as opposed to ‘true metals’ such as iron and gold).
Despite its storied history and many valuable uses across various industries, it is still the jaw-dropping structures and vibrant rainbow hues caused by Bismuth’s iridescent oxide tarnish that captures our imaginations the most.

Bismuth Crystals - 2 — Take a Look at Our Dazzling Range of Bismuth Crystals

Natural And ‘Grown’ Bismuth Crystals

Bismuth exists naturally in the earth’s crust with its abundance estimated to be about twice that of gold and it’s often produced as a by-product of smelting other mined metals. It can also be artificially ‘grown’ which allows the producers to create magnificently unique Bismuth crystal structures that deny comparison to anything else that exists today. This ‘growing’ process is important as Bismuth can struggle to crystallise in the earth’s crust due to being spread too thinly throughout its host rock. But with a little laboratory assistance, the amazing Bismuth structures can be brought to spectacular life.

It’s these ‘stair-stepped’ spiral structures of Bismuth that give the crystals their unique appearance, which is produced by the element having a higher growth rate on its outer edges than on its inside edges. The amazing colourings of Bismuth crystals are formed by the variations in thickness of the oxide layer on the surface, which produces that awesome variety of colours when reflecting light.

Bismuth Crystals - 3 — Learn More About Bismuth

The Healing Properties Of Bismuth Crystals

Bismuth healing crystals can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially in an emotional sense. They also have properties that stimulate physical and mental energy, as well as having a spiritually calming influence.

Bismuth crystals can be used in conjunction with all of the Chakras, though they are especially dynamic in energising the Crown and Base Chakras. It is sometimes referred to as ‘The Transformation Stone’ due to its calming qualities and connection to the earth. It can help you focus on tasks and enable clear thought processes as well as aid meditation and shamanic journeying. Physical travel is also said to be energised by Bismuth crystals, promoting and encouraging the enjoyment of travelling from place to place, especially over long distances. Bismuth also has properties that facilitate teamwork, helping groups of people work together more efficiently.

As you can see from its healing properties, Bismuth crystals are one of the most useful and rewarding healing crystals available and their unique beauty provides a wonderful accent to any room or space you care to keep or display them.

Which Crystals are Best for Meditation?

Meditation has been described as being the art of “silencing the mind”. When the mind is “silent”, not only is concentration increased but inner peace can be obtained. It is this combination of increased concentration and finding elusive inner peace which has made meditation a popular pastime for many people for centuries. How to we optimise the art of meditation? Using crystals can help maximise the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual benefits we get out of meditating. But which crystals are best for meditating? How should we use them to optimise their spiritual powers?

From rose quartz, amethyst, smoky quartz and clear quartz, quartz crystals come in a variety of forms. The great thing about meditating with quartz crystals is they are ideal for both beginners and those with years of experience in meditation. Let’s take amethyst as an example.

Amethyst

Amethyst is predominantly a violet variety of quartz. This naturally beautiful gemstone is deeply spiritual. It is widely believed among spiritualists that meditating with amethyst will amplify energy and spiritual understanding, as well as clarifying understanding of situations and concepts.

What type of meditation is Amethyst best for?

As amethyst carries an intense, sweet energy it is particularly stimulating to the Third Eye, Crown and Etheric Chakras. This stunning precious stone therefore makes an effective accompaniment in chakra meditation.

Chakras are the various centres within our energy field where our “life force” flows. Placing amethyst gemstones on the different chakra points as you meditate can enhance the uplifting feeling you will get from the meditation as the amethyst will help cleanse and enliven our vital energy centres.

Prehnite

Similar to rose quartz, prehnite is a stone that represents unconditional love. This stone of prophecy is said to enhance visualisation, inner calm and knowledge. Prehnite is a popular crystal to use in meditation as it is said to induce deep meditation, to alleviate nightmares and to help overcome one’s phobias and fears.

What type of meditation is Prehnite best for?

Prehnite is a great Feng Shui stone. Feng Shui is a type of meditation which is used to strengthen your spiritual connection. Crystals are sacred aids in the practice of Feng Shui and no more so than prehnite. Placing a prehnite crystal in close proximity as you practice Feng Shui will help “declutter” the mind, ridding it of restlessness, nervousness and worry.

Clear Quartz Crystal

As well as being an extremely attractive crystal, it is believed clear white quartz can help alleviate our troubles and the tribulations we encounter. If you are meditating to “awaken the mind”, clear quartz should be your crystal of choice. When mediating, the pure white of clear quartz is channelled into our mind, making us think with greater clarity and precision.

What type of meditation is clear Quartz best for?

This stunning gemstone is regularly used in chakra meditation as a means of stimulating the crown chakra, the highest energy point on the head. Place the pointed end of the clear quartz crystal at the top of the head whilst meditating and let the healing powers of the crystal flow through the body, deep into your chakras.

Amber’s healing powers

With its warming glow and distinct rustic tones amber is an aesthetically stunning gemstone. Being this beautiful and unique it is hardly surprising amber is crafted into jewellery and ornaments whose receivers’ regard as eternally precious. As well as being irrefutably alluring to look at, amber’s appeal also stems from its massive healing powers.

A Powerful History

The healing properties of amber date back centuries. Archaeologists have found meticulously carved pieces of amber in various digs around the world, dating back to around 2000 BC. Ancient Germanic tribes, including Celts, Greeks, Arabs, Romans and Chinese people viewed amber as an almost sacred entity, which offered them protection and healing powers. Due to its “electrical properties” and rich golden colour, amber, also known as Bernstein, Northern Golf and Electra, was traded far and wide during ancient civilisations. Tribes in Lithuania used amber to drive away evil spirits and to help the souls of the dead travel to good spirits.

An Ancient Potent Healer

In his work on alternative medicine, Hippoctrates (460 – 377 BC), the “Father of Medicine”, described the healing properties and the ways in which Baltic Amber could be used as a healer. Hippocrates’ methods were then used by scientists until the Middle Ages. In ancient Rome, amber was used as a means to protect people against disease, including madness. The zest to exploit amber’s healing properties continued in the Middle Ages, when Baltic amber beads were worn to treat jaundice. It was widely believed the power of this golden stone could ingest the unwanted yellow tinge from the skin.

The belief that amber could heal the mind and cure the body from pain and disease continued throughout history. Before World War I amber was used to treat different diseases, including impotency in men.

amber-facial

How Can Amber Be Used?

So it certainly has its unique healing uses, but how exactly can we exploit amber’s decisive capabilities?

• Amber jewellery – Wearing amber jewellery is perhaps the most obvious way for the powers of the gemstone to flow into the body and mind of its user.
• Amber balls – Amber balls are beautiful carved objects which are used in meditation as a means of enhancing the spiritualness of the practice. Place the amber balls in the palms of your hands and you will hit specific pressure points. The balls will send signals through your nervous system that will tell you when it’s time to let go and relax.

amber-and-silver-gemstone-earrings-small-oval-8mm — ***Amber & Silver Stud Earrings***

XAE01_crystal_specimens_amber_2 — ***Amber Healing Crystal***

amber-bracelet-elasticated — **Amber Bracelet (elasticated)**

A Potent Chakra Cleanser

Today, the ubiquitous love affair with amber remains. This powerful chakra cleanser and healer is said to imbue the body with vitality and is still used as a means to absorb pain and negative energy. By ridding the body of pain, rebalance and energy is restored through amber. As well as alleviating stress and anxiety, amber is still used to treat various illnesses. With its natural antibiotic powers, problems related to the gallbladder, kidneys, stomach, liver and the spleen are believed to be cured with amber. This stunning and distinctive gemstone is also used strengthen muscles and to alleviate joint problems.

An Intellect Enhancer

Asides it physical healing proficiencies, amber is also said to augment decisiveness. By strengthening the memory and intellect, amber acts as a powerful source in providing emotional well-being.

Discover Crystal Waters

We all know drinking water is good for us. In fact we can barely open a health and beauty publication without being reminded about the ‘eight glasses a day’ recommendation. But what about drinking crystal water? Comparatively less has been written about this spiritually cleansing and fortifying drink. So what exactly is crystal water, how is it made and what benefits does it have on our health?

Placing crystals in water effectively charges the water with the energy of the crystals. For some, drinking water infused with crystals is empowering. Leaving quartz crystals in water is said to ionise the water and produce an excellent drink for healing. Unlike water from the tap which can be ‘polluted’, the high silica content of some crystals means the water keeps its structure which prevents it from becoming weak and polluted. Thus crystal water helps cleanse the mind and body more effectively than ‘conventional’ water.

Drinking crystal waters is believed to be a powerful healing ritual.

Preparing Crystal Water

Use a transparent jug that has been thoroughly cleaned. Make sure the crystal you use are cleaned thoroughly as well.

Place the crystal in the jug and fill it with water, filtered tap water will suffice.

In order to keep out impurities cover the jug, preferably with a clear glass plate. . . Place it on a windowsill so the daylight can enhance the crystal’s energy.

Leave the jug on the windowsill for 12 – 24 hours, giving the crystal time to energise the water.

The crystal water is now ready to drink.

Crystal water helps cleanse the mind and body

An Alternative Method

Instead of just using a clear glass jug use a tall-sided clear drinking glass as well.

Place the crystal inside the drinking glass and place it in the jug.

Fill the bowl with water without submerging the top of the glass into the water.

Place the clear plate over the top of the jug.

The energy vibrations of the crystal will reach the water without it being in direct contact with the water.

Quartz crystals are the best type of crystallised stone to make crystal waters.

Which Crystals to Use?

It is important to know that only certain types of crystals can be used when making crystal water. In fact using some types of crystals may prove hazardous to your health. Plain rock or quartz crystals are the best type of crystallised stone to make this purifying type of water.

Crystals that contain copper should be avoided. This is because the copper might release some harmful impurities into the water. Crystals that comprise of copper properties include Azurite, Galena, Chalcopyrite and Malachite. Hematite should also be avoided as it is an iron-based stone, which could cause the water to rust. Follow the procedures correctly and stick to using plain rock crystals and you’ll soon be enjoying the unique benefits of drinking crystal water.