Crystal & Stone Types – Blog on Crystal Healing, Jewellery & Gemstones

Diamond Rain on Saturn & Jupiter

With diamonds draped from your ears, wrists, neck and even navel, it’s safe to say you’re a diamond lover. In fact from a very young age, you’ve dreamt about being the owner and hoarder of diamonds in many different shapes, sizes and forms. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend with reason – they are beautiful, lavish and denote style, affluence and taste.

If you consider yourself a devoted collector of diamonds, the following story of ‘diamond rain’ falling on Saturn and Jupiter, will certainly whet your insatiable thirst for diamonds further – could it be that you could reach these diamond-drenched planets one day?

Scientists from the United States have worked out that diamonds the size of the ones Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton love to flaunt could soon be raining down on Saturn and Jupiter. You may want to rub your eyes and read that sentence again but to save you from the bother, we’ll reiterate it again – Hollywood-sized diamonds could rain down on planets in our solar system.

raining-diamonds-james-temple — The BBC Reports on Diamond Rain Discovered

Dazzling Crystal Carbon

New atmospheric data indicates that carbon is abundant in its dazzling crystal form. The scientists say that lightning storms will turn methane into carbon. When the carbon falls it hardens into larger chunks of graphite which eventually turns into diamonds. The findings were uncovered at the meeting of the Division for Planetary Sciences in Colorado. Talking at a conference, the American scientists said that these diamond “hail stones” eventually melts into a sea of liquid in our planet’s hot cores.

Doctor Kevin Baines, of Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, said the biggest diamond “hail stones” would be likely to be approximately a centimetre in diameter. “Big enough to put on a ring, although of course they would be uncut,” said Dr. Baines. Just to deepen of pangs of diamond desire even further, the scientist added the diamonds would be the size of the ones the later Hollywood actress Elizabeth Taylor would have been “proud to wear.”

“The bottom line is that 1,000 tonnes of diamonds a year are being created on Saturn. People ask me – how can you really tell? Because there’s no way you can go and observe it. It all boils down to the chemistry. And we think we’re pretty certain,” added Dr. Baines.

o-SATURN-facebook — 10 Things to Know about Saturn

Uranus & Neptune Harbourers of Gemstones?

It has long been thought that Uranus and Neptune have harboured gemstones. Up until now it was widely believed Saturn and Jupiter did not have the right atmospheres to nurture crystals. By analysing the temperature and pressure predictions for the planets’ interiors, the scientists concluded that diamond crystals will “hail down over a huge region” ODF Saturn in particular. We say, the sooner they find a means to travel to Saturn and Jupiter, the better.

Discovery of the Oldest Crystal of Earth’s Crust

There’s exciting news in the world of crystallography. A minuscule crystal that is 4.4 billion years old has been discovered. The tiny Zircon has been confirmed as being the oldest fragment of the Earth’s crust.

The finding of the world’s oldest fragment has been reported in the Journal of Nature Geoscience. The piece of rock was found in sandstone in the Jack Hills area of Western Australia. Scientists were able to give the Zircon an age by analysing its lead atoms and Uranium. The Uranium decays into the lead atoms extremely slowly over time and can be used by scientists like a clock to trace age.

The implications of the discovery of the ancient Zircon is that our planet had formed a solid crust much sooner than what’s been widely perceived. Before the Earth formed 4.6 billion years ago, it would have been a ball of molten magma. Through the discovery and calculating the age of the tiny crystal, scientists now have evidence to believe that the Earth’s surface hardened much earlier. This therefore poses the possibility that our planet had become ready to horde life not long after its formation.

“This is the oldest and the best dated of all the crystals that have been reported. This confirms our view of how the Earth cooled and became habitable,” said Professor John Valley, from the University of Wisconsin, US and lead author of the study.

“We have no evidence that life existed then. We have no evidence that it didn’t. But there is no reason why life could not have existed on Earth 4.3 billion years ago,” continued the Professor.

BBC Report that Crystal is 'oldest scrap of Earth crust'. Read the full story here! — **BBC Report that Crystal is ‘oldest scrap of Earth crust’. Read the full story here!**

Glows From Red To Blue

One of the greatest components of crystals is their unique, vibrant and dazzling tones. From the deep and serene shades of purple Amethyst crystals to the beautiful earthy browns, yellows and reds of Citrine, if you’re a fan of crystals, no doubt you’ll know all the different colours, shades and properties of the many different types of precious stones.

The crystal found in the sheep ranch in Western Australia is translucent red, a bit like a Ruby. However, as John Valley states, the tiny Zircon crystal glows blue when its bombarded with electrons.

***The Beautiful Colours of Citrine Crystal***

A New Technique In The Study Of Crystals

In 2001 John Valley and his team of scientists carried out studies on another crystal found in the same Jack Hills area in Western Australia. There had however been inconclusiveness when trying to determine the age of the crystal. The new method of studying the age of crystals, which was used on the recent ancient crystal finding, is known as atom-probe tomography. It enables scientists to image single atoms of lead and work out the isotape ratio. The scientists found that the clumps of lead atoms in the crystal had formed 1 billion years following the crystallisation of the Zircon. This meant the lead atoms hadn’t moved enough to prevent the crystallographers from determining its real age. The team of scientists were therefore able to determine the exact age of the crystal – 4.4 billion years old.

So the next time you glance down at your Amethyst pendant or look up at your Quartz cluster on the mantle piece, have a thought at just how long crystals have existed – since Earth began.

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.

Crystal Display Ideas

Healing crystals can make perfect ornaments for decorating your home or office with as they have a natural beauty which will shimmer and shine under various lights and the many varied colours that crystals produce mean you can find some to match any type of home décor or office design. Stand alone crystals can be mounted and take pride of place on a mantelpiece or shelf, while another great idea is to arrange a collection of complimenting crystals in a creative formation for display.

The options are endless. Many people like to construct hanging ornaments bedecked with various crystals such as amethyst healing crystals, which will dangle down and sway to and fro with the airflow of the room, allowing the light to catch the crystals’ edges and add a little sparkle to the area. Other crystal lovers will dedicate entire cabinets to the display of their crystal collections, taking much pleasure from arranging them in perfect harmony. If you prefer a less crowded way of displaying your crystals, it’s a good idea to spread them around the whole home so wherever you are and whatever room you’re in, there’s always a reminder of the beauty and positive energy that crystals provide.

Your home will benefit from crystal display

Your Favourite Crystals on Show

One of my personal favourite ways of displaying crystals is on a large plate or tray where the crystals can be artfully arranged in an ornamental display, which also allows the entire collection to be moved easily from room to room. If you know your crystals and the healing energies they have then having a couple of different trays allows you to arrange your crystals with their various properties in mind. You can then experiment with different combinations in different rooms to discover which ones work best for your environment.

Perhaps a particular room in your house is a little dreary and needs some upliftingly positive energy implemented, so display the crystals that are particularly useful in that regard (such as a Blue Apatite Healing Crystal) while keeping the rest of your collection elsewhere.

The restorative qualities of some crystals can be ideal for the rooms you spend the most time resting in like your bedroom. But whatever your plan is regarding the influences of the healing crystals, keeping them portable by displaying them on a suitable tray is a wise choice if you know you will have cause to move them from room to room. Of course, if you know you’re not going to need to move them around then a special shelf set aside for all your crystal healing paraphernalia can make for a wonderful display piece, especially if it’s in the room where you will relax the most to reap the benefits of the crystals’ energies.

Clear a Shelf for your Crystal Collection

Pride in your Crystal Collection!

Another way to arrange your crystals will certainly appeal to the very organised among us. Find a box which you can compartmentalise and assign a compartment for each crystal. This method might not be very useful to those of us who have lost count of how many crystals we have, but it can be a great way of starting out as you can label each compartment so you never forget which crystal is which. Another way to remember all of your different crystals is to take a digital photo of them all together and then use a picture-editing program (even MS Paint will suffice) to log which each crystal’s name is and its various properties.

You can also go online to share your crystal collections and the different ways you store or display them. You can compare the different crystals you have and discuss the various beneficial combinations that are possible. The crystal healing community is very friendly and will always be welcoming as well as providing plenty of inspiration for how to display your crystals in your own home.

Crystals look great displayed in a group

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.

How Are Crystals Found?

We’ve all seen stunningly beautiful crystals twinkling up at us in shops and online but how are they actually found? How are the highly polished and flawless crystals that we know and love today mined from the earth and what treatment processes do they have to go through before they can be sold?

Diamonds

Diamonds are one of the most sought after crystals. They are mined by crushing diamond ore or by using the Alluvial method which involves sifting through river bank sand and soil. This technique is particularly common in the Sierre Leone and Liberia African Diamond mines where host rock is washed away by streams and rivers and diamonds are deposited as sediments in the sands.

Mount Ida Quartz/h2>

According to geologists, Brazil and Arkansas is home to the highest quality quartz in the world. Today, rock collectors from around the world head to the hot springs of Mount Ida with the hope of mining their own quartz crystal. The mines of Jessieville, Story and Mena comprise of deep pits of exposed hillsides in which bulldozers have removed the clay and soil to expose the quartz crystals that are channelled through these ancient mountains.

In these mines, often the only tool you’ll need to dig up the crystals is a garden trowel. While most mines are open year-round to let people dig for crystals, the best time to mine is during the spring and the autumn when the temperatures are cool.

Quartz found at the Arrowhead Mine in Mount Ida

Sapphires

What’s incredible about mining sapphires is that they are mined today as they were thousands of years ago. The majority of sapphires come from countries which have strict regulations about how the mining can proceed. For example, in Sri Lanka mining is regulated so that the land is protected from being over-mined. Heavy machinery is forbidden and the mining is restricted to small-scale operations.

Natural untreated sapphires are extremely rare and are meticulously mined to ensure future generations of supply will remain.

Sapphires from Roberts Yogo Sapphire Mine

How are Crystals Treated?

For hundreds of years stone cutters have been using a number of treatments to enhance a crystal’s beauty. For example, Tanzanite in its original form is a not too attractive shade of grey. The stunning hues of blues and purples we now associated Tanzanite with only emerge after heat treatment. It is unlikely that Tanzanite would demand much more than a few pounds if it was left in its original lacklustre state but after it has been treated with heat, this stone is transformed into one of the most sought-after stones on the market.

Laboratory Crystals

Not all crystals are mined. Gemstones can also be grown in laboratories. Alexandrites, emeralds and sapphires cut from laboratory grown crystals have the same chemical composition, durability and other physical properties as their corresponding natural gemstones. In this BBC video, cave scientist Penny Boston, who studies ancient forms of life trapped inside the earth’s largest crystals talks with biophysicist Elspeth Garman who spends 12 months developing one flawless protein crystal in her laboratory.

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 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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.