Some people believe that crystals, such as quartz and obsidian, may each have specific healing properties that can benefit your mind, body, and soul.
There’s been a
In fact, you’ve probably heard people talking about and showing off these beautiful stones. But you may not know what they have to offer, if anything.
There are a number of different types of crystals out there. Some people believe they have healing abilities for the mind, body, and soul.
In fact, many ancient cultures — including Egypt, Greece, and China — believed that crystals have healing properties.
Some people claim that crystals promote the flow of good energy and help rid your body and mind of negative energy for physical and emotional benefits.
However, it’s important to know that there’s almost no scientific evidence to support the use of crystals.
Crystals have largely been dismissed as pseudoscience, although some studies suggest they may offer a placebo effect.
An older study presented at conferences in 1999 and 2001 but not published in a peer-reviewed journal suggested that any healing benefits associated with crystals were most likely a result of the power of suggestion.
For instance,
Still, some people believe it goes deeper than that.
“Crystals are made up of different elements or compounds, which our bodies react to in different ways,” says Sonali Saujani, a crystal master healer. “Crystals are minerals that hold energy, and as we as humans are made up of energy, we can exchange energy with the crystal when we work with it.”
Saujani points out that crystals are used to improve the function of many everyday objects, like watches, plugs, hospital equipment, and lasers.
She cites a 2008 study that states that “quartz can act as a flint to start a fire or generate electricity.”
“If a crystal can be piezoelectric [contain electric charge], I am sure it can do so much more. They balance out electric currents and keep equipment from exploding,” says Saunjani. “In the same way, when it comes to crystals and our body, all they’re doing is balancing out the frequency of the electromagnetic currents in our body.”
Although science doesn’t support crystals as a healing modality, there’s no harm in giving them a try if you have realistic expectations about what they can and can’t do. Crystals should never replace medical treatment from a qualified professional.
To help you get started, we compiled a comprehensive roundup of some of the most popular crystals.
Healing crystals for health
- Clear quartz: a clear crystal considered a master healer and believed to support the entire energetic system
- Jasper: a nurturing stone said to provide support during times of stress
- Obsidian: believed to help process emotions and experiences and aid in letting go
- Amethyst: used for healing, purifying, and enhancing willpower
- Bloodstone: said to improve circulation and provide support to blood-related issues
Healing crystals for wealth
- Tiger’s eye: said to provide motivation and lessen fear
- Citrine: believed to spark enthusiasm, creativity, and concentration
- Turquoise: thought to soothe emotions and attract good luck
- Sapphire: known as a stone of prosperity
- Jade: another well-known stone for prosperity and luck
Healing crystals for love
- Rose quartz: sometimes referred to as the stone of love and believed to encourage love and trust
- Moonstone: said to prompt feelings of inner strength and growth
- Ruby: believed to support sexuality and sensuality
Want to dive into crystal lore? Get the details below.
Clear quartz
This white crystal is considered by some to be a master healer.
It’s said to:
- amplify energy
- aid concentration and memory
- help balance your energetic system
This stone is often paired with others like rose quartz to aid and enhance their abilities.
Obsidian
Obsidian is believed to be an intensely protective stone.
It’s said to:
- shield against physical and emotional negativity
- get rid of emotional blockages
- promote the qualities of strength, clarity, and compassion
- help you find your true sense of self
This stone may also help you digest experiences, emotions, and baggage, leaving you free of negative blockages.
Rose quartz
Just as the color may suggest, this pink stone is all about love.
It’s said to:
- help restore trust and harmony in relationships
- enhance connection
- provide comfort and calm during times of grief
- encourage love, respect, trust, and self-worth
Who couldn’t use some of that?
Jasper
This smooth crystal is known as the supreme nurturer.
It’s said to:
- empower the spirit
- support you through times of stress by preparing you to fully show up
- protect you from and absorb negative vibes
- promote courage, quick thinking, and confidence
These are traits that are extra helpful when tackling important issues, which is exactly what this stone may be good for.
Citrine
Bring joy, wonder, and enthusiasm to every part of your life with citrine.
It’s said to:
- help you release negative emotions, like fear and doubt
- encourage optimism, warmth, motivation, and clarity
- enhance mindfulness qualities
- encourage creativity
- support concentration
Turquoise
This blue crystal is said to help heal the mind, body, and soul.
It’s also said to:
- be a good luck charm
- help balance emotions
- support spiritual groundedness
When it comes to the body, it’s said to represent the respiratory, skeletal, and immune systems.
Amethyst
This purple stone is said to be incredibly protective, healing, and purifying.
It’s also said to:
- help rid the mind of negative thoughts
- bring forth humility, sincerity, and spiritual wisdom
- promote willpower and healthy choices
- aid sleep and demystify dreams
Tiger’s eye
If you’re in need of a power or motivation boost, this golden stone may be for you.
It’s said to:
- help rid your mind and body of fear, anxiety, and self-doubt
- guide you to harmony and balance
- help you make clear, conscious decisions
This can be beneficial for career aspirations or even matters of the heart.
Moonstone
Moonstone is known for new beginnings.
It’s said to:
- encourage inner growth and strength
- soothe feelings of stress and instability when embarking on new ventures
- help you move forward successfully
- promote positive thinking, intuition, and inspiration
- support success and good fortune
Bloodstone
This powerful healing stone lives up to its name.
Bloodstone is believed to:
- draw off negative environmental energies
- encourage circulation of ideas and energy
- promote selflessness, creativity, and idealism
- reduce irritability, aggressiveness, and impatience
Symbolically, bloodstone is associated with blood and blood-related bodily processes, like menstruation.
Sapphire
This blue stone is one of wisdom and royalty.
It’s said to:
- attract prosperity, happiness, and peace
- opening the mind to beauty and intuition
- help with clear seeing
- promote a positive mood
Ruby
This striking red stone is a real standout.
It’s said to:
- restore vitality and energy levels
- promote sexuality and sensuality
- support intellectual pursuits
- bring self-awareness and recognition of truth
First things first: Identify what you feel you’re missing before looking into what the stones can provide you. This will help you figure out what’s going on within yourself before depending on outside sources.
From there, just let your intuition choose what’s best for you.
Whether a crystal catches your eye or you feel a physical pull toward one, your inner subconscious will help guide you to the crystal that’s right for you.
Once it’s picked out, you can create the connection you need.
When you first bring your crystal home, experts say you’ll want to cleanse away any negativity it may have picked up.
Depending on the kind of stone, you can:
- hold it under cold, running water
- immerse it in sea salt
- place it in sun or moonlight
- smudge your crystal with sage or other herbs
Make sure you do your research before getting your crystal wet. Some stones become toxic or dissolve when immersed in water. Check the Mohs Hardness Scale to determine whether your crystal will disintegrate in water.
It’s not just about their physical care, though.
For crystals to work their magic, experts suggest mentally clearing negative energies or any skepticism you may have about their capabilities. According to believers, it’s important to respect what crystals can do for you.
Many people believe the main benefit of crystals is their metaphysical abilities. But if we’re being perfectly honest, they’re also really beautiful.
It’s no surprise that people make tons of accessories out of them, like jewelry or home decorations. Not only do they look nice, but a little extra positive energy never hurt anyone.
Prayer beads
Crystal prayer or mala beads are worn against the heart or on the wrist to inspire positive feelings, whether it be hope, courage, or peace. They’re a great way for anyone to carry around the healing powers of crystals.
Prayer beads can also be used during meditation to count repetitions of mantra, or sacred chanting. Practitioners use the main, or guru, bead to keep count.
Jewelry
Jewelry is another great way to incorporate crystals into your daily routine and wardrobe. From rings to necklaces to earrings, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Not to mention it also allows you to showcase each stone’s natural beauty.
Coasters
These stunning coasters are made from genuine gemstones from Brazil. The agate stone in this household item are believed to help promote balance and harmony within the home. These are ideal for those who want to bring good energies into their abode.
Sex toys
These crystal sex toys are designed to mix their metaphysical energies with your sensual ones. They’re great tools for those who want to try something new with a crystal-infused twist.
Just be sure to skip the yoni eggs.
Pipes
Believe it or not, you can even smoke out of crystal hand pipes. They’re smooth, easy to use, and sturdy. This makes them a great gift for anyone who uses medical marijuana to manage a health condition.
Water bottles
Cute water bottles are just as trendy as crystals now, so it’s no surprise the two have been merged into one.
In the bottom of these beautiful glass bottles sits a “gem pod.” It’s said to promote everything from wellness and beauty to balance, though their actual benefits are up for debate.
It’s important to buy crystals that are authentic and ethically sourced. Many crystals are overmined, contributing to social and environmental issues in their countries of origin.
Crystals sometimes take thousands of years to form, which means there are only so many to go around.
Ask your crystal seller how their crystals are sourced. They may even be able to provide a certificate of authenticity for very rare crystals.
The best options for buying crystals
- small independent shops where you can see, feel, and ask questions about the product
- retailers who provide a certificate of authenticity for rare crystals
- retailers who provide information on how their crystals are sourced, like Mystic Wolf
- retailers with realistic price points, since cheaper isn’t always better
If you’re already skeptical about these healing crystals, then they likely won’t do you any good. They’re unlikely to do you any harm, though. While there’s no scientific evidence for crystals, that hasn’t stopped people from trying them.
An open mind is key to obtaining the positive qualities these beautiful stones can offer. Whether it’s overall good energy you want or specific healing powers, there’s nothing wrong with giving crystals an honest try. Who knows — you might be pleasantly surprised.
Emily Rekstis is a New York City–based beauty and lifestyle writer who writes for many publications, including Greatist, Racked, and Self. If she’s not writing at her computer, you can probably find her watching a mob movie, eating a burger, or reading an NYC history book. See more of her work on her website, or follow her on Twitter.
FAQs
What are the benefits of using crystals for healing? ›
The proposed healing benefits of crystals predominantly surround areas of mental wellbeing; including feelings of increased tranquility, positivity and focus, as well as enhanced immunity and natural pain relief.
How do I know what crystal is right for healing? ›- Call upon the crystal that's right for you. Ask the Universe for the crystal that will work for your highest good. ...
- See if you have a physical reaction to any stones. ...
- Experiment with stones that have different "properties".
Clear quartz, according to Dr. Kim, is known as the “master healer” because it helps align all your chakras and energetically attune to all other crystals.
How do you use crystals for the first time? ›- Program your crystal with an intention. ...
- Wear your crystals. ...
- Toss them into your purse or pocket. ...
- Meditate with them. ...
- Create a crystal layout. ...
- Put them in your bath. ...
- Sprinkle them throughout your space. ...
- Do a ritual with them.
The crystal should be first inserted into an oscillator circuit and its output signal is to be read by a frequency meter or by a multimeter with the frequency meter function. The only instrument which is able to read a crystal frequency is a dip meter, a multi-purpose instrument used by radio amateurs.
How do I test my crystal? ›Another way to test crystals is by doing a streak test - this is done by using either the unglazed white porcelain tile or the unglazed black porcelain tile. Some crystals leave a very telling streak of colour on the tile (the powder of the crushed mineral) which will help you to identify what it actually is.
How many crystals should you start with? ›We suggest you start with around 5 different crystals or stones to really become familiar with them and their different positive influence on your emotional well-being. Naturally, you'll want to expand your collection, and this is when an in-depth book on crystals and gemstones can come in handy.
What is the luckiest crystal? ›One of the best crystals that brings good luck has to be Green Jade. For centuries Green Jade has been a stone that is synonymous with luck, wealth, and fortune. This is the reason you often see Green Jade in places of businesses. Red Jade is also known to be a lucky stone as is Citrine and Green Aventurine.
How do crystal work? ›Like other forms of alternative therapy, crystals work by channelizing your energy levels, thereby, focus on healing your body from the inside. Crystals also carry the power to induce a placebo effect in the body, which is scientifically proven to help medical treatment.
How do I put my energy into my crystals? ›- Placing them under the full moon. ...
- Soak them in moon water. ...
- Bury them in the ground. ...
- Give them a sound bath. ...
- Burn incense or herbs over them. ...
- Immerse them in salt. ...
- Use your breath to charge them. ...
- Connect them to your spirit guides.
What do you say when charging crystals? ›
Or try one of the following: Hold the crystal in both hands, rinse it under clean running water, and repeat to yourself a saying such as, “Purify this crystal and release its negative energy.”
When should you recharge crystals? ›Cleaning and recharging your crystals is necessary for returning them to their natural state so that they can continue to benefit you. Generally, you should plan to clean your crystals once per month; however, if you feel that they are being influenced by negative energy, you may consider cleaning them more often.
Where can I sleep with crystals? ›Placing crystals underneath your mattress and pillow could help you sleep, says Winquist. She suggests placing one at each of the four corners of your bed or mattress for balance. “I have a relatively large piece of fluorite I like to place under my pillow.
Do crystals need to be charged? ›But while crystals have the ability to absorb and hold positive energy, they also have the ability to hold negative energy. That is why it's critical to cleanse and charge them often.
Where can I hold my crystals? ›Having your favorite stones with you all day strengthens the connection between your energy and the crystals' energy. You can carry your crystals in your purse, handbag, have them in your car, keep them in a small pouch, wear them as jewelry or attach them to your key chain.
How long do crystals last? ›Estimates of the precise length of a crystal meth high vary widely. Some researchers have found that the stimulant effects of the drug last approximately six to eight hours. A National Institute of Justice report states that they can last 12 to 14 hours or longer.
Why do crystals light up when you rub them? ›When you go into a dark room and rub two quartz crystals together, you will start to see them glow. This process is called Triboluminescence and it is a flash of light produced from the energy of friction, impact, or breakage. It is considered a “cold light” because no heat is produced.
How do you know if it is real crystal? ›Glass makes a clunking noise, while crystal sounds like a reverberated ringing. Another way to sound test the glassware is to lightly run a wet finger in a circular motion around the rim. If it's crystal, you will be able to hear a subtle tone that emanates from it.
What does it mean if a crystal breaks? ›Energetic Meaning Of Breaking A Crystal
It's a sign that you have worked through a phase of your life's journey. The stone, which has represented that aspect of your journey is following the natural cycle of life ~ birth, life, death ~ and eventually rebirth.
As a general rule of thumb (with some exceptions), crystals ending with “ite” tend to dissolve in water. Generally speaking, crystals that fall below 5 on the Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness are a softer material so should not be submerged in water.
Why does crystal make a sound? ›
The reason for a crystal sound in our daily life
The crystal sound comes from the vibrations of the crystal. These vibrations are produced due to the physical and chemical reactions between the surface of the crystal and the surrounding air. The vibrations of the crystal create the sound.
Stones that can be worn everyday with little or no worry to you, the customer, are Diamonds, Sapphires, Rubies, and Topaz. The gemstones that need to be worn more carefully due to their hardness and wear ability are Pearls, Opals, Jades, Aquamarines, and Onyx.
Is it OK to keep all my crystals together? ›It's generally fine to keep crystals together, as long as you handle them with care. However there could be some concerns where the crystals are not compatible to be kept together.
What are negative crystals? ›Negative crystals, or cavities within a crystal, and fluid inclusions occur in almost every mineral. They are generally too small to notice without high magnification, but these modest features hold great beauty and scientific value.
How do you protect your energy? ›- Limit distractions. The modern workplace is filled with distractions. ...
- Take breaks. ...
- Set boundaries. ...
- Take control of your calendar. ...
- Pay attention to your emotions. ...
- Understand what drains your energy. ...
- Declutter your space. ...
- Don't aim for perfection.
Many people turn to tiger's eye no matter the variety to help detox the blood, to bring about good luck, courage, confidence, and emotional centeredness.
What crystal attracts what you want? ›Clear quartz: can help you gain clarity on what you want and is believed to raise your vibration to match your desires.
Which crystal attracts love? ›Ruby. Ruby is one of those love crystals that almost everyone recommends. Its rich, deep red conjures love, power, and passion images.
Why is crystal so important? ›In Western Christianity, crystal was often mentioned in writings and used to decorate important religious objects, as it was thought that crystal manifested transcendence and the light of the heavens. For the religious, the stone symbolized purity, faith and perfection.
Can you charge crystals without a full moon? ›There is no rule, no obligation, no requirement, and no need to put them out under the full moon. If you enjoy the energy of the full moon and you want to - put them out! Let them soak up the energy of the full moon, so that those energies can be reflected in the energy of your crystal(s).
What is a cleansing crystal? ›
Clearing Crystals
Citrine, Clear Quartz, and Carnelian are highly cleansing crystals working with the chakra system to align and recharge with positive energies by cleansing negative and stagnant energies. Each of these stones do not absorb negative energies as well as never needing to be cleansed.
As explained before, amethyst can go in water. People ask this question often, and especially so depending on what they're planning to do with the gemstone. Generally speaking, amethyst is considered a water-safe gemstone because of its 7 rating on the Mohs Hardness Scale.
How can I display crystals at home? ›- Pedestals for Large Pieces. If you have a large piece of crystal, let's say six inches in diameter or larger, consider placing it on a pedestal and let it command some attention. ...
- Hang Them Up. ...
- Display Boxes. ...
- Bowls. ...
- With Everyday Items. ...
- With Natural Things.
For all-day loving energy, you could also wear a rose quartz necklace that falls right at your heart chakra. However you use this stone, be consistent. "Rose quartz is a stone that likes to be near you, so make sure to connect with it every day," Askinosie says.
What is black tourmaline used for? ›As Van Doren and Leavy explain, the two primary properties of black tourmaline are protection and grounding. "It's a go-to stone for protection and for shielding or the removal of unwanted energy," Leavy says, adding, it can be helpful if you know you're going into a situation that will be difficult or challenging.
Where do you put crystals in a bedroom? ›Create a Pure, Protective Ambiance in Your Bedroom
Place them on the windowsill, in the corners of the room, near your bed, or under your pillow, wherever you display them, these stones will help protect your space and raise its vibration.
Holding crystals or placing them on your body is thought to promote physical, emotional and spiritual healing. Crystals supposedly do this by positively interacting with your body's energy field, or chakra. While some crystals are said to alleviate stress, others purportedly improve concentration or creativity.
What is the best crystal to wear daily? ›...
- Clear Quartz For Healing. ...
- Black Stones For Protection. ...
- Rose Quartz For Love & Healing. ...
- Pyrite For Abundance. ...
- Tourmaline To Guard Against Negative Energy.
Wearing a gemstone necklace will surround your body with positive and healing energies that will prevent any misfortunes coming your way. Gemstones are believed to act as a cleaning agent for the wearer. They are instrumental in cleaning the accumulated negative energies in our body.
What crystals should not be together? ›- Clear quartz and stones with powerful properties. Quartz amplifies the energy of minerals nearby, so it is not recommended for use with strong minerals. ...
- Lace agate and red jasper. ...
- Smoky Quartz and Tiger Eye. ...
- Pure quartz and green aventurine. ...
- Amazonite and tiger's eye.
What do you call someone who loves crystals? ›
Someone who collects precious or rare stones has a lapidary hobby. You can also call a person who works with such stones a lapidary. Lapidary comes from the Latin word, lapis, for stone. Definitions of lapidary. adjective.
How should I sleep with crystals? ›Firstly, sit comfortably and hold the crystals in either one of your hands. This can help you clear your mind, calm any racing thoughts you may be having and visualise the energy you are after to aid you into falling into a deep, uninterrupted sleep.
Is it good to carry crystals on you? ›Carrying small crystals throughout your day can be a fantastic experience. Having your favorite stones with you all day strengthens the connection between your energy and the crystals' energy.
What crystals protect you the most? ›- Clear quartz.
- Black tourmaline.
- Black obsidian.
- Black jade.
- Pyrite.
- Smithsonite.
Sun's rays pass through the stone and enter our bloodstream. Once they get inside our bloodstream, they start balancing and rectifying the energies inside our body (Earth, Air, Water, Fire.) and therefore it is suggested that the gem should touch the skin.
What powers do gemstones have? ›From ancient times and across all cultures, gemstones have been prized, not only for their beauty, but also for their special powers to protect, heal, guide, and enlighten. As far back as the Stone Age, crystal amulets were worn for protection against harm, as well as for decoration.
Which gemstone is most powerful? ›In Astrology, there are two gems which are the most powerful and dangerous at the same time. Among these, the first one is Neelam (Sapphire) and the second is Heera (Diamond).
How do you carry crystals in your bra? ›- Cleanse your crystals before and after wearing to keep the energy amplified and to reduce skin irritation.
- Try different combinations of crystals and be aware of how they affect you throughout the day and adjust quantities and crystal types as required.
Although ritual cleansing is often centered around certain points in the solar or lunar cycle, you can set your stone out at any time to cleanse and recharge. Set your stone out before nightfall and plan to bring it in before 11 a.m. — this will allow your stone to bathe in the light of both the moon and sun.
How do I charge my crystals? ›- Placing them under the full moon. ...
- Soak them in moon water. ...
- Bury them in the ground. ...
- Give them a sound bath. ...
- Burn incense or herbs over them. ...
- Immerse them in salt. ...
- Use your breath to charge them. ...
- Connect them to your spirit guides.