Exploring the Mystical Science of Crystals

If you’re anything like me, you try to find a practical use for items that would seem otherwise frivolous without a “proper” purpose. As whimsical a person as I am, I try to make sure I don’t generate too much waste in my endeavors whether it be physical materials, time, energy, etc.; or to at least ensure that whatever it is I purchase or use has a minimum of three “lives”. What’s the point in having extra time on this earth if it’s not sustainable to life, am I right? And what’s the point in having anything if the thing has no point? If this makes any sense to you, then read on and find out how you can get the most out of your visits to the metaphysical store. If you make these trips often then you’ve probably heard of Crystal Healing, but what is it really and what’s the “practical” side of it?

The Formation of Crystals and their Relationship to us

To put it simply, crystals are natural formations whose properties, structure, and shape depend on their molecular composition as well as the combination of elements and temperature changes in the earth and water where their base atoms reside. A crystal cannot form in liquid alone, it requires the presence of another state of matter in order to form a nucleus (the starting point of its formation, much like a plant cannot exist without a seed). The molecular structure and composition of the “crystal seed” determine the type of crystal it will grow into. As human beings, our anatomical structure is made up of a variety of similar elements which, as a calculated total account for 99.98% of our chemical composition, leaving a so far unidentified 0.02% – this percentage is believed to be the human soul. So, essentially, we are crystals and a soul. Pure magic if you ask me. 

The Importance and Benefits of Cleansing your Crystals

Let’s say you’re browsing the many crevices of the world wide web and you come across a particular article that leads you to another and another and another (we all know what happens when we climb into this wormhole) and you come across a sparkly little rock that you’re drawn to, but you just can’t explain why. After doing some exploring, you realize that you’re drawn to this stone not only for its undeniable beauty but also because, surprise, it’s your birthstone! Whatever the reason, you click ‘buy now’ and immediately go sit by the door waiting for the post to arrive. By the time it does get there – which could seem like forever as I know all too well- it’s been handled by the manufacturer, the supplier, the middleman, the retailer, and the delivery girl (yes.) Imagine the likes of all that energetic chaos swimming around in there and mingling with your precious. The first thing you should do is smudge yourself, your crystal, and your space. For removing negativity and invoking loving energy, burn Sage and Palo Santo together, wafting the smoke through your space and around yourself while holding the crystal. If you have multiple, you can also rest them next to selenite or on a selenite plate, which charges as well as cleanses them. Another way to cleanse and charge your crystals is by leaving them out under moonlight, sunlight, or in a moonwater bath – be careful though, some stones are sensitive to sunlight and water. 

Manipulating Crystal Energy 

Energy is infinite, meaning it cannot be created nor destroyed. It can, however, be channeled, manipulated, and amplified. Many ways exist to do this, but one of the simpler and more natural methods is by harnessing the powers of a crystal, which we will get to in just a moment. That being said, there’s hardly a wrong way, but it does require some basic knowledge and understanding of what each stone has to offer. Just as you’d associate light with emptiness and dark with fulfillment (or the other way around), crystals that are light in color offer properties of cleansing and clarity while darker crystals lend more substantial energies such as protection and grounding. These two types of crystals go hand in hand with each other, replacing the negative with the positive as they balance each other out. The in-between crystals or colored crystals exist in a wider variety, as do their healing purposes, and are more specific when it comes to intentions. Pair any colored stone with either a light or dark (or both) and amplify the properties of that stone as well as adding protection, which is always a bonus. Using crystals in candle magic is a common practice in present times and lends the energy of a healing crystal to a candle as it’s being burned. The intention of the candle would determine what stone would be best to use. For example, a candle for cleansing and balance could be paired with Selenite whereas a candle for abundance and prosperity could be paired with Green Aventurine. 

Crystal Healing in Modern Spiritual Practices

Many modern-day spiritualists utilize the healing properties of crystals in various therapy sessions, rituals, spells, divination, and even implement their use into the crafting of spiritual tools. In some forms of Neopaganism, crystals are used as conduits of energy for the purpose of manifesting specific intentions and are often set out on an altar, attached to a wand, or laid in candles to combine their magic with that of fire. Crystals are also often placed in spell jars to combine their energy with that of herbs and other ingredients. A form of divination often used in these circles is Runic Magic which, much like tarot cards, provide insight to a situation at hand, situations to come, and offer advice on moving forward. Runes are ancient symbols that were used by Pagans of old times, each with a specific purpose. They were often carved on rocks, sticks, and even on the shields of viking warriors to invoke healing, protection, or defense. Quite popularly in modern times, runes are carved into healing crystals for the purpose of combining their power with that of a particular crystal. For example, to invoke love and healing into your divination practices, you’d use Rose Quartz rune stones, or for protection Obsidian rune stones. In Light-healing and Reiki, healing crystals are used to manipulate the flow of energy through the body as well as the chakras, assisting revitalization of the mind as well as the organs. During these types of therapy, crystals are laid on specific parts of the body in order to assist the vibration of the chakras, thus releasing any stagnant energy that causes blockages or physical complications. Another form of crystal healing, much like the above mentioned forms of therapy, is meditating with crystals. During your regular meditation routine, you would select your crystals and surround yourself with them, or in turns, hold them against various parts of the body. The best stones for mediation would be one for each chakra such as: Clear Quartz for the Crown, Amethyst for the Third Eye, Lapis Lazuli for the Throat, Green Aventurine for the Heart, Citrine for the Solar Plexus, Carnelian for the Sacral, and Red Jasper for the Root. This will help to align the chakras, allowing energy to flow freely and healthily through the body. 

Crystals and the Zodiac

How a crystal affects us is oftentimes dependent on how well its properties and correlations fit with our personality. In astrology, we learn that the positions of celestial masses on the day and time we were born, play an important role in our general characteristics and how we would develop as a person. For each of the twelve zodiac signs, there is a sun sign as well as a moon and rising sign, their planets as well as a corresponding element. These aspects are related in different ways to specific healing crystals. To find out what stones would work best for you, run your natal chart and compare it with the references below. 

Capricorn (December 22nd – January 19th)

Element: Earth 

Planet: Saturn

Birthstone: Garnet 

Garnet’s soothing properties help to calm the overactive mind of a Capricorn while boosting energy to get things done. Keep this stone in your workspace. 

Aquarius (January 20th – February 18th)

Element: Air 

Planet: Uranus

Birthstone: Amethyst

People born under Aquarius are known for their innovation and creativity, but these characteristics leave room for day-dreaming and tendencies of being a bit detached from reality. Amethyst instills peace and inner strength, as well as balancing rational thought and intuition. 

Pisces (February 19th – March 2oth)

Element: Water

Planet: Neptune

Birthstone: Aquamarine

As a water sign, Pisces have a tendency to be dreamers and great nurturers, which often drains a lot of energy. Aquamarine, with its calming and loving vibrations, helps to replenish the energy lost. 

Aries (March 21st – April 20th)

Element: Fire

Planet: Mars

Birthstone: Carnelian 

Fiery Aries often needs a bit of stabilization otherwise their energy can become explosive. Carnelian balances strength and courage while keeping you grounded. Keep a piece near your front door as a reminder that anything is possible. 

Taurus (April 21st – May 20th)

Element: Earth 

Planet: Venus

Birthstone: Emerald 

Individuals born under this sign tend to approach situations headfirst and therefore often need a little insight into the heart. Emeralds attract the cosmic powers of Venus and love which makes it the perfect stone for a Taurus. Wear this stone around the neck. 

Gemini (May 21st – June 21st)

Element: Air

Planet: Mercury

Birthstone: Labradorite

The unifying properties of this stone help to connect the many dimensions of a Gemini’s mind. It can also protect against psychic attacks and keep the mind balanced. Keep this stone anywhere in the home. 

Cancer (June 22nd – July 22nd)

Element: Water

Planet: Moon

Birthstone: Red jasper

Cancers are naturally very in touch with their emotions and empathetic towards others. This can often lead to self-neglect. Red Jasper is ideal for revitalizing energy and aiding in a little self-love. Keep this stone near to where you would normally take some time to yourself. . 

Leo (July 23rd – August 22nd)

Element: Fire

Planet:  The Sun

Birthstone: Pyrite 

Pyrite harnesses the energy of the Sun, which lends passion and strength to a Leo. This stone will help you to overcome obstacles and push forward in your endeavors. Keep it in your workspace for encouragement.

Virgo (August 23rd – September 22nd)

Element: Earth 

Planet: Mercury

Birthstone: Green Apophyllite 

Virgos are naturally caring and tend to relate well to people. Utilizing this stone helps to connect them to nature. Keep it near a plant in the home. 

Libra (September 23rd – October 22nd)

Element: Air

Planet: Venus

Birthstone: Sodalite

Sodalite’s ability to harmonize thought and truth compliments Libra’s natural talent for communicating with others. Keep this stone in an area of the home where you would normally gather with family or friends to promote harmony and understanding. 

Scorpio (October 23rd – November 21st)

Element: Water

Planet: Pluto

Birthstone: Citrine

Citrine promotes calm and self-confidence which makes it the perfect stone to balance Scorpio’s intensity and charisma. Keep this stone near your windows to clear out negative energy. 

Sagittarius (November 22nd – December 21st)

Element: Fire

Planet: Jupiter 

Birthstone: Tree Agate

Tree Agate’s close connection to the Earth’s energy encourages Sagittarius’ adventurous spirit and spontaneity. Carry it in your travel bag or keep it next to your books. 

If you’re feeling unbalanced, overly emotional, stressed, anxious or if you’re experiencing any mental or physical upset, do yourself a favor and incorporate the use of healing crystals into your daily life. Note that these stones will not cure an illness or disease (see a doctor when you should), but they can definitely ease discomfort in many areas. Download an ebook, visit your nearest metaphysical store and get started today!