
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.
(Video) Do Healing Crystals Work? Learn Everything There Is To Know About Them
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
(Video) Top 10 Healing Stones - Meanings & Benefits
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 crystal is good for healing? ›
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.
What are the benefits of wearing a crystal? ›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 crystals should be worn everyday? ›- Diamonds, rubies and sapphires. ...
- Amethyst. ...
- Quartz. ...
- Citrine. ...
- Tanzanite. ...
- Onyx. ...
- Moonstone. ...
- Pearl.
- 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.
- Actinolite: fibrous form of asbestos.
- Amazonite: contains copper which is toxic.
- Angelite: contains lead and sulfur.
- Azurite: contains copper.
- Chrysocolla: contains copper.
- Garnet: contains Aluminium.
- Hematite: contains iron and will rust when submerged.
They balance the soul, alleviate anxiety, and restore confidence. This stone is used to increase wealth and vitality. Tiger's Eye brings protection against negative energy and strengthens self-worth.
How do I recharge 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.
Summary: The vibrational motion of an atom in a crystal propagates to neighboring atoms, which leads to wavelike propagation of the vibrations throughout the crystal. The way in which these natural vibrations travel through the crystalline structure determine fundamental properties of the material.
Can I put crystals in my bra? ›Many people love to carry their crystals with them throughout the day. Wearing crystals is a great way to receive the maximum benefits of the energy they emit. You can wear them in jewellery, in pockets, in your wallet and you'd be surprised at how many of our customers carry crystals around in their bra.
How do you know what crystal is best for you? ›How to select your crystal. 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.
What crystals Cannot go in salt? ›
- Amber.
- Turquoise.
- Imperial.
- Topaz.
- Red Coral.
- Fire Opal.
- Moonstone.
- Opal.
Crystals do not “need” to be charged under moonlight: they have plenty of energy on their own. They don't need to be charged in order to “work" or be “better” or to be “more helpful” or to be “cleansed” (the moon does not “cleanse” crystals - but that's a story for another time ;) ).
What crystals can charge in the sun? ›...
1) Quartz Family
- Rose Quartz.
- Citrine.
- Clear Quartz.
- Smoky Quartz.
- Aventurine.
- Chalcedony.
- Tiger's Eye.
The quick answer to this question is yes. Rose Quartz can fade in the Sunlight. However, the amount of fading depends on a few factors, such as the intensity of the sunlight and the quality of the crystal. Additionally, try to avoid exposing your crystal to direct sunlight for long periods.
Can Tiger's Eye get wet? ›Because Tiger's Eye is a hydrothermal quartz, it's considered to be a water-safe crystal. It also has a score of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness which means it can withstand being soaked in water for long periods of time.
Who shouldnt wear Tigers Eye? ›7. Who should not wear a tiger eye stone? Zodiac signs with ruling planets that are the enemies of Sun and Mars shouldn't wear the tiger eye stone. Precisely, Taurus, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Libra zodiac signs shouldn't wear a tiger eye stone.
Is Tigers Eye toxic? ›Tigers eye is made up of crocidolite and quartz. The word asbestos often causes panic but the danger from this mineral comes from inhaling its dust or microscopic fibres. In tigers eye the crocidolite is locked deep within the quartz. It therefore poses no risk at all.
What does Black onyx do? ›Meaning and Uses of Black Onyx
Black onyx has a calming quality, which can be beneficial in working with challenging emotions such as grief and anxiety. Black onyx also helps to balance yin and yang. It helps us to feel centered, make wise decisions, and get to the root cause of issues.
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.
What is the difference between cleansing and charging crystals? ›There's a distinct difference between charging and cleansing crystals. Most often both terms are used interchangeably but they are not the same thing. Cleanse - clearing crystal of any stale energy. Charge - replace used up energy from continuous use of a crystal.
Can amethyst go in the water? ›
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.
Is a crystal alive? ›Scientists typically describe crystals as "growing," even though they are not alive. In subterranean gardens, they branch and bristle as trillions of atoms connect in regular three-dimensional patterns. Each crystal starts small and grows as more atoms are added.
Do crystals help with anxiety? ›Do crystals work for anxiety and depression? Crystals and crystal healing have become increasingly popular in recent years. People who use crystals cite their supposed healing powers and positive energy. However, there is no scientific evidence to support their use in the treatment of anxiety or depression.
Do crystals give off electricity? ›Crystals can generate electricity under pressure. When a crystal is slightly distorted and then allowed to spring back into place, it produces a slight electrical charge, according to Lois Van Wagner of Yale University.
Can you wear rose quartz everyday? ›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.
Where do you hold rose quartz? ›You can meditate with rose quartz by placing the crystal near you while you practice. You can also hold it in your palm or against your chest. Experts suggest asking the crystal for permission before you begin and focusing on the healing, loving energy of the crystal as you practice.
Why do girls put crystals in their bras? ›This placement, by the way, is intentional per theories about optimal crystal healing: "By wearing these stones near your heart chakra," the brand claims on its website, "you are open to love more deeply and live from the heart." Customers can tap into their desired energy via "Affirmation" or "Intention" bras, all for ...
How do I know what stone to wear? ›Neelam is ruled by planet Saturn and as per Vedic Astrology, enemies of planet Saturn are Sun, Moon, and Mars which rules Ruby, Pearl and Red Coral gemstones respectively. Therefore, if you are wearing Blue Sapphire gemstone, you should not wear Ruby stone, Pearl gem and Red Coral gemstones with it.
How many crystals exist? ›More than 4,000 naturally occurring minerals—inorganic solids that have a characteristic chemical composition and specific crystal structure—have been found on Earth.
How do you wear crystals? ›Wear your crystal bracelets on your left wrist if you want to absorb the crystal's energy into your aura. We recommend wearing the crystal bracelet on your right wrist when you want to remove negative energies or manifest specific positive energies that resonate with your crystal.
What crystals should not be kept together? ›
- Carnelian and Amethyst.
- Blue Lace Agate and Red Jasper.
- Clear Quartz and Green Aventurine.
- Sunstones and stones that are associated with Saturn and Venus.
- Gomed and Cat's eye.
- Air: Fluorite, Selenite, Labradorite, Amethyst.
- Fire: Sunstone, Carnelian, Fire Agate, Red Jasper, Citrine.
- Earth: Black Tourmaline, Obsidian, Pyrite, Hematite.
- Water: Amethyst, Aquamarine, Selenite, Chalcedony, Celestite.
- Display Them on an Altar. For those crystals that thrive in the light, create an altar display where the stones can rest when not in use for healing purposes. ...
- Keep Them in Fabric Pouches. ...
- Place Them in a Box. ...
- Organize Them With Drawer Dividers. ...
- Different Ways to Organize Your Crystals.
If you have a Quartz crystal is it cold or warm? Real Quartz should still be cool to the touch even on a really hot day. Calcite crystals should feel waxy.
Is it OK to buy crystals online? ›It is relatively safe to buy crystals online, and you shouldn't go paranoid over getting a fake crystal. Yes, some retailers do sell fake, man-made crystals, but not all of them. It is always a good idea to know what you're looking for before purchasing crystals online and to be a bit educated about them.
Is crystal or glass better? ›1. Crystal is stronger and thus thinner than glass. Glass stemware has thick bowls and rims; the material needs a certain thickness not to break. Crystal is a much harder material, so it's used to create thin, elegant, ultra-thin wine glasses.
How do I charge my crystals on a full moon? ›Using the Full Moon to Cleanse and Charge Crystals
Simply place your crystals outside, or near an open window, under direct moonlight for a few hours or ideally overnight. If possible, place them on a natural surface to support the process with grounding energy.
Can you charge crystals through a window? Your crystals don't have to be directly in the moonlight or sunlight to charge. The truth is, they can benefit from the energy of the moon or sun even if they are behind a window. Depending on where you live, it is not always possible to leave your crystals outside.
How do you charge rose quartz? ›Charge your rose quartz in moonlight for an overnight charge. Some people believe that charging is the same as activating your crystal, while other people believe they are separate steps entirely. In any case, you can leave your crystal outside in the moonlight overnight to absorb energy.
Can Tiger's Eye go in sun? ›Tigers Eye is a stone that is ruled by the sun and mars. It is quite a hardy and dark stone so it shouldn't have much issue when placed in the sun.
How long should I leave my crystals in the moonlight? ›
Exposing your crystal for 24 hours to experience both sunlight and moonlight is ideal and can generate the most energy. Full moons are optimal energy sources for your crystals as they signify new beginnings, so be aware of the dates the full moon falls on to best charge your crystals.
How do you charge clear quartz? ›One of the best ways to give this gemstone its energy back is to charge it beneath the light of the moon. You can also charge Clear Quartz by smudging it with sage or palo santo or your favorite healing incense.
Should I leave my crystals out tonight? ›If you can, leave your crystals out overnight and collect them in the morning. Some people also like to let their crystals have some time in the Sunlight and leave their crystals out for 24 hours. Some crystals don't like too much sunlight though, so be careful when doing this.
Why do we charge crystals? ›Charging gives a crystal additional energy, allowing your crystal to work with more vibrancy and for a longer duration before it needs to be cleansed again. Charging can also increase the intensity of any intention placed into the stone.
Can I put crystals in my bra? ›Many people love to carry their crystals with them throughout the day. Wearing crystals is a great way to receive the maximum benefits of the energy they emit. You can wear them in jewellery, in pockets, in your wallet and you'd be surprised at how many of our customers carry crystals around in their bra.
What crystal is good for anxiety? ›Amethyst
“It's a wonderful crystal to promote calmness, clarity and relaxation; it's said to release negative energy, stress and irritability,” Stacey says.
One of clear quartz's benefits is enhancing mental clarity. It can help with emotional stability, and it's popular in meditation and restorative work. It's also often used for manifestation and can help create more focus and clarity around a desire. It is a protective stone and can be used to amplify psychic abilities.
Is Amethyst good for health? ›Today natural health practitioners don't use amethysts for the same purpose as the Romans, though some do use them in treating addiction. Instead, amethysts are said to promote serenity and calm. Those who work with crystals may use the gemstones as a way to help reduce your anxiety and perceptions of pain.
How do you charge 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.
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.
Which crystal is best for love? ›
- Green aventurine.
- Rose quartz.
- Malachite.
- Sunstone.
- Carnelian.
- Emerald.
- Clear quartz.
- Smoky quartz.
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.
What's the best crystal for stress? ›- Rose Quartz.
- Amethyst.
- Moonstone.
- Black Tourmaline.
- Rhodonite.
- Lepidolite.
- Citrine.
- Blue Lace Agate.
Healing with Tiger Eye
A stone of protection, Tiger Eye may also bring good luck to the wearer. It has the power to focus the mind, promoting mental clarity, assisting us to resolve problems objectively and unclouded by emotions. Particularly useful for healing psychosomatic illnesses, dispelling fear and anxiety.
- — Hallway — Cleansing, Energy. Best crystals for hallway: black obsidian, rose quartz, black tourmaline.
- — Bedroom — Relaxation, Healing. Best crystals for bedroom: citrine, celestite, amethyst.
- — Office — Focus, Energy.
If you leave your amethyst in sunlight or under other UV sources for too long, its color will fade. And if you expose amethyst to heat, you'll see the color fade as well.
Where do you put amethyst on your body? ›But if you are looking for where to place purple amethyst on the body here are a few ideas to get you started. – On the forehead to encourage relaxation and creativity. – In your pocket for daily inspiration and calm. Just drop a purple amethyst in your pocket and go.
What finger is amethyst worn on? ›The Amethyst gemstone can be made into a ring or a pendant with silver only. This ring should be worn on the middle finger of the right hand on a Saturday Evening during Krishna Paksha (descending moon).