Brief History: The use of crystals has a long history of satisfying the spiritual needs of humankind. In almost every time period and culture around the world, people have been attracted to crystals, like gemstones, minerals, or semiprecious stones. Crystals have a sacred power, a purpose discovered in ancient cultures and still practiced today. Ancient civilizations around the world used crystals both as ornaments and functionally for medicine, rituals, healing, meditation, protection, offerings, and currency:
The first historical references to the use of crystals come from ancient the Ancient Sumerians, who included crystals in magic formulas. Egyptians used stones primarily for protection and health and some crystals for cosmetic purposes, like galena and/or malachite ground to a powder as the eye shadow. Ancient Greeks attributed a number of properties to crystals and many names we use today are of Greek origin. Crystals were (and are) also used for healing in traditional Chinese Medicine, which dates back to at least 5000 years. Jade in particular was highly valued. Green stones in general were used to signify the heart of the deceased and were included in burials, as it was also found at a later period in Ancient Mexico.
Interesting Facts Quartz can store huge amounts of data, and crystals are used in everything from watches to computer chips to cars.
Black Tourmaline rids any radiation from electrical devices.
Quantum physicists and Metaphysicists now agree: Everything in the Universe is made out of energy. All things in the universe are forms of energy with their own frequency and vibration — including crystals.
Humans and every other animal as well as most of the matter on Earth contain elements just as crystals do, we are literally made of star stuff.
Activation; Speak, sing or send your crystal vital life force energy through your breath. A little interaction can go a long way! If you have plans outside, consider taking the stone out with you. Allowing the stone to soak up natural energy at the park or beach has a powerful effect.
Healing: If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency, and vibration… This is precisely how healing crystals, stones, and minerals work. They alter the vibration of bodily cells and chakras, in short, impact energy in all beings. Because each stone has a different composition, its energy, purpose, and effect on human energy differs depending on the stone, placement, and use. Crystal healing therapy involves placing gemstones on the body to draw out negative energy and can be as simple as holding it in your hand or popping it in your pocket or bra for the day! Crystal healing also involves the use of crystals and stones placed under pillows to ward off sickness, shed negative energy or absorb positive energy. Remember crystals absorb negative energy so you’ll need to cleanse them every so often.
Crystal Care: Regularly cleansing and recharging your stones is the only way to restore your crystal to its natural state. This act of care can also reinvigorate your own sense of purpose. There are a number of ways, here are some of the most popular;
Water- To neutralize any negative energy stored inside the stone and return it back to the earth. Although natural running water, like a stream is best, you can also rinse your stone under a tap. (1 minute). Whatever your water source, ensure that your stone is completely submerged. Pat dry when complete. Salt water is also good from the sea or if not, then home mixed salt water is ok for hard stones, such as quartz and amethyst (Leave submerged for up to 48 hours). Please note- Moonstone, Malachite, Selenite, Lepidolite, Azurite, Calcite, Angelite, Halite, Fluorite, Rhodocrosite, Hematite and Ammolite should not be put in water.
Natural Light- 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. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may weather the stone’s surface, so make sure you return for it in the morning. Please note- Do not use this method for ‘Amethyst’.
Sage- Smudging your stone is said to clear inharmonious vibrations and restore its natural energy, make sure a window is wide open to allow the smoke to exit the home or do outside.
Brown Rice- Submerge crystals in the rice for 24hours to draw out negativity, discard rice after use.
Sound-Chanting, singing bowls, a tuning fork, a bell. It doesn’t matter what key the sound is, so long as the sound emitted is loud enough for the vibration to fully encompass the stone (5minutes, any stone, ideal for large collections).
Shape / Texture: It does not matter whether a crystal is clear, battered, scratched or grubby it will have the same internal orderliness and potential for healing. This is why many keep their crystals for years.
Blessings: Use the sacred power and purpose of crystals to heal and guide your life. Your energy will thank you.
