Crystal Gifts & Collectables – 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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, 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.

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.

Beginners Guide to Crystal Healing

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

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.

Festive Crystal Gift Ideas

If you are determined to get your loved one a truly special and unique gift this Christmas then why not opt for a beautiful and stunning crystal? Men, women and children of all ages, backgrounds and tastes can’t seem to resist the electrifying charms of opening an aesthetically beautiful and spiritually healing crystal. Whether your loved one is a veteran crystal collector, is a Feng Shui master or has never owned a crystal in their life, take a look at the following festive crystal gift ideas to help make Christmas 2013 a memorable one.

The Seasoned Crystal Healer

If your loved one has a penchant for exploiting the unique healing powers of crystals then why not indulge their spiritual senses further by presenting them with a crystal pendulum this Christmas? Crystal pendulums are meticulously crafted using superior crystals that are renowned for their healing attributes. For exceptional soothing powers give your loved one an Amethyst Egyptian Pendulum, a beautiful stone that has calm yet powerful healing energy.

The Feng Shui Fanatic

If your partner, daughter, cousin, friend or anyone you buy a Christmas gift for is into Feng Shui then why not whet their appetite for this ancient form of art and science further by giving them a stunning quartz hand-carved dragon turtle. This ancient Chinese symbol has been used for decades in Feng Shui as a means of creating more energy and spiritual power. It is believed that by positioning this symbol of power in a home will protect its inhabitants, bringing them luck, wealth and security. The symbol of the dragon-headed turtle carved out of quartz is also believed to protect the home from negative energy.

A Special Crystal Gift for a Child

It’s no secret that a lot of children get showered with too many toys than they can realistically play with on Christmas Day. Instead of adding to the long list of noisy, flashing toys a child is often overwhelmed with during the festive period why not give them a thoroughly unique gift they are likely to have and cherish in many years from now?

For example, if you child is showing an interest for science and archaeology, stimulate their interest by giving them a fossil gift box set. These stylish gift boxes contain a range of stunning fossils, meaning you will give someone a little piece of natural history. For example, this Calymene Trilobite is between 400 and 440 million years old and provides a truly wonderful gift for anyone fascinated by natural history and fossils.

Moonstone Jewellery for Her

If you want to show the lady in your life just how much you love and respect her this Christmas then giving her a piece of moonstone jewellery this year will certainly show your love and appreciation. Moonstone is a feminine crystal that is believed to nurture and protect. Asides its unique spiritual powers, moonstone jewellery looks absolutely stunning. This moonstone pendant for example, with its wonderfully ethereal and misty exterior, would complement an elegant Christmas outfit impeccably.

Crystals for Prosperity

Crystals aren’t just beautiful and compelling to look at but they have many unique healing and spiritual powers. From awarding greater self-esteem and confidence to healing sexual problems, the unique capabilities of various types of crystals have been exploited for centuries. But did you know that crystals can be used to help attract prosperity and abundance? If you could do with an infusion of fortune in the prosperity stakes take a look at the following crystals which are known for bringing wealth, prosperity and abundance.

Citrine

Citrine has been referred to as the ‘money stone’. ‘success stone’ and ‘merchants’ stone of wealth’. This stunning crystal is yellow or golden in colour and is a member of the quartz mineral group. Ancient cultures believed that placing this stone on the forehead of an elderly person would increase his psychic power.

Citrine is now commonly associated with being a stone of good fortune, which helps a person not only acquire wealth but maintain it. Putting a citrine crystal in your pocket or wallet will help nurture prosperity. Alternatively having citrine tumblestones in a bowl and set in any room in your home is a good idea to attract luck into your living space.

Green Aventurine

Green Aventurine has been used as a wealth and luck-generating aid for centuries. As a consequence of its lucky-associations, this thoroughly unique looking stone is popular amongst gamblers. In the world of minerals, aventurine in the good luck shamrock, bringing fortune, prosperity, abundance and happiness to all those who own it. Aventurine is associated with the heart chakra and in order for one to be financially secure, the heart must be ‘healed’ and radiate positive energy. Having this beautiful green stone in your possession will help this positive energy to be radiated, thus healing the heart.

Aventurine can be bought in many forms and is typically green or peach in colour. From a green aventurine crystal egg to a peach aventurine gemstone chip necklace, there are many ways you can utilise the prosperity-generating powers of aventurine. Though it has to be said that it is predominantly green aventurine that is particularly associated with wealth.

Pyrite

The name pyrite comes from the Greek word meaning “a stone which strikes fire.” Being typically golden in colour, pyrite is a traditional symbol for money and abundance. However, it is also worth knowing that it is also known as fool’s gold because it can found adjacent to gold deposits and has has been mistaken for gold.

Native Americans believed they could ‘look into someone’s soul’ when they peered into a polished piece of pyrite. Even today, placing a polished piece of iron pyrite tumblestone on the mantelpiece is said to bring wealth and prosperity to the household.

Peridot

Peridot is another ‘stone of money’. It is believed that if you put a piece of peridot with a lump of citrine in your purse it will protect the money and help bring on more finance and wealth. It is also said that only spiritual and clear-minded individuals should exploit the charms of peridot.

Instead of carrying around an awkwardly-shaped piece of peridot in your purse, why not utilise its money-making powers by wearing a stunning peridot pendant around your neck?

Best Crystals for Christmas

With their twinkling, shiny exterior, elegant look and glamorous presence, crystals can help intensify the character of Christmas. Not only do crystals make a great Christmas gift ideas but they also make fantastic decorations. If you want to add some spice into the forthcoming festive season take a look at the following great ways to incorporate crystals at Christmas.

Crystal Gift Boxes

If you want to give your loved one a unique and special gift this Christmas, a crystal gift box could possibly by the ideal present. Whether you choose a large Agate Geode crystal or a Amethyst Cluster, these special stones all come in an elegant gift box and make a beautiful accessory in a home.

Fossils Make and Educational Gift

Children never fail to be fascinated by the enduring quality and beauty of fossils. If you have a archeological-inquisitive child are want to give them a Christmas gift that will satisfy their curiosity, a fossil gift box will put a piece of natural history in your child’s bedroom.

Crystal Jewellery Gift Boxes

There is nothing quite like a piece of crystal jewellery to make an eye-catching Xmas gift. For example, the Opalite Jewellery Set includes earrings, a bracelet and a necklace that comprise of tumbled crystal nuggets to create a soft, natural and alluring look. The exquisite shades of blues and pinks augment the mystifying essence of this gorgeous set of jewellery. Opalite is believed to have healing powers, including calming the nerves, alleviating depression and inducing serenity. It is also said that opalite crystals enhance true love, thus making the crystal jewellery gift the perfect Christmas gift for your loved one.

Crystal Christmas Decorations

To really utilise crystals to their optimum during the festive season, why not incorporate them into the decorations? Give your Christmas tree some lavish flamboyance by placing crystal charms among the baubles and tinsel. Crystal charms that comprise of pearls, gem chips and smooth tumble stone would make a great addition to a tree. With its varying shades of contrasting greens, the Gemini Birthstone Crystal Charm Chrysocolla Howlite would provide an elegant touch to a Christmas tree adorned in a stylish and unique way.

Crystal Tea Light Holders

Tea lights create an atmospheric vibe, which is especially enchanting during the festive celebrations. Make tea lights even more conspicuous by placing them in a crystal holder. This Calcite Deep Polished Tea Light Holder with its soft translucent exterior glows warmly when a lit candle is placing in it, making a fantastic accessory at Christmas.

Drilled Tumblestones

Another fantastic stocking filler are drilled tumbstones. With pre-drilled holes running through the stone, the receiver of these stunning stones can make their own distinctive bead jewellery. With its eye-catching deep blue tone and unique swirls of green swirling over the stone, the Blue Howlite Drilled Tumble Stone would make a fantastic gift for any creative loved ones who like to make their own thoroughly individual jewellery.

All About Crystal Balls & Scrying

We’ve all seen images and films depicting witches and sorcerers gazing into gleaming crystal balls, peering into the future. From ancient times, crystal spheres have been considered by mystics to be of the perfect shape and material – often clear quartz – to access hidden information as well as for crystal healing. This practice of gazing into crystal balls is also known as ‘scrying’ and, as we’ll see, can often involve the use of elements other than spheres.

Why A Crystal Ball?

The spherical shape of a crystal ball is said to have the energy of harmony and perfection, radiating the energy of crystals equally in all directions. The properties of quartz crystal also play a large part in this, being one of the most important healing crystals available. Quartz crystal is reputed to channel energy through its helical spiral crystalline form. Even the most subtle healing energy can be channelled by a crystal ball into any space, neutralising many negative emotions.

What is Scrying?

Diviners and fortune tellers have used crystal balls as a way of looking into the future or simply for specific revelations. Scrying can be practiced using diverse elements such as water, fire, leaves, smoke, or polished scrying mirrors. In fact, any smooth surface may be used, such as a bowl of liquid, a pond, or a crystal (especially crystal balls). In the past, the visions that resulted from staring into these elements were believed to have come from the spirit world. Today, any images that emerge are thought to come from the subconscious. When using crystal balls for scrying, a person focuses their attention on the sphere, discarding unwanted thoughts and going into a trance. Any images that appear are then are acknowledged and this leads to an even deeper trance state. The scryer then interprets the flow of images like a movie.

Scrying throughout History

Throughout history, spiritual visions have been sought through the practice of scrying – which uses not only crystal spheres but other objects as well.

According to the Shahnameh, a late 10^th century Persian epic work, the Cup of Jamshid – a cup of divination – was used by wizards as a way of looking at the seven layers of the universe.
Joseph Smith, prophet of the Mormon religion, claimed to have used ‘seeing stones’ in order to translate an ancient text he had discovered.
Nostradamus was perhaps the most famous scryer, using a bowl of water to see into the future while in trance.

Which Crystal Ball Should I Choose?

For scrying, choose a crystal ball that appeals to you the most and whose properties correspond with your needs. Clear quartz, smoky quartz, and amethyst are the most popular of the crystal spheres. Remember, a crystal ball need not be for divination – they make wonderful display pieces and unique additions to home décor.