A Guide to Crystals: Everything You Need to Know About Using Crystals

In 2020, amid a global need for catharsis and renewal, a collection of deeper, more accessible wellness experiences emerged. Healing methods and rituals once seen as ‘New Age’ bled into the mainstream domain, and enthusiasm for all things metaphysical soared: astrology, tarot, and, today’s topic, crystals.

In a world defined by upheaval, more and more people looked towards these ancient healing tools to find direction and solace. It was in this search for clarity that they saw an uptick in use and interest. On Pinterest in 2020, there was a 100% increase in searches for the term ‘protection crystal’.

Meanwhile, worldwide Google searches for ‘crystal healing’ rocketed by 262% from March 2020 to May 2021. However, this in fact built upon the 263% uplift in 2019, proving that momentum behind them existed before their pandemic moment.

We totally get that crystals are considered to be quite out there, but personally we love them. At best they can help you achieve your goals, and at worst, well, there is no worse case scenario. Even sceptics can agree that they’re not going to do you any harm.

Read on for everything you need to know about crystals: what they do, how to use them and which to choose.

What do crystals do?

Humans have used stones for healing and energetic purposes for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians used crystals for healing and protection; sacred Indian texts explain specific healing properties of various crystals; and ancient Greeks and Romans used crystals for protection in battle — just to name a few examples.

In a modern western context, people who work with crystals still believe that the stones hold a line of frequency that emit vibrations. Working with the specific types that match your personal goals, for instance career, love or wealth, is said to realign your body’s vibrations, intensifying your intentions and their manifestation into reality.

While there’s no scientific evidence that they can fix medical conditions (advocates would argue this is because crystalline healing energy is metaphysical and has no physical density to measure), crystals represent a fun and unique way to help direct and influence positive energy towards good mental and even physical wellness.

What’s more, during an era in which our brains are burned out by digital distractions, they act as a tangible tool to hold during mediation, helping you to focus. Even the skeptical among us can accept that they are at least a handy way to be reminded of your intentions.

How to use crystals?

There a few easy ways you can use crystals. Firstly, can simply sit with them and hold them. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and set your intentions. As such, they can easily slot into an already existing meditation practice.

Next, you can add crystals to an at-home altar (like a vision board but in a physical space) to provide a beautiful boost of earth energy. If you don’t have an altar simply place them on top of a piece of paper with your intention written on it could be a force of good luck.

With smaller crystals, you can pop them in your pocket (or bra!) or sleep with one under your pillow. Alternatively, keep them on your shelves, on your desk or somewhere you can look at them and give them attention.

What’s more, some people even swear by charging water with crystals. Place one, or a few, into a jar of water overnight and drink the charged water to utilise their power.

If you want to step it up a notch, crystals can also form part of a more complex spiritual ritual. From example, you can try making a crystal grid; surround a ‘central’ crystal with more stones to create a stronger and quicker result.

What are the best ones to use?

Below we’ve shared ten popular crystals, each with a specific set of properties said to have a different effect on the mind and body.

However, your intuition rains supreme when it comes to choosing the right types for you. Ultimately, choose the stones you feel the most drawn towards. If you’re shopping in a store, hold the crystal in your hand and notice how you feel. If there’s an energetic connection that you can’t quite explain, you’ve found the one.

Moreover, it’s also important to note that just as important as choosing the ‘right’ crystals for you needs is your willingness and dedication to work with it. Using them consistently, and maintaining good energetic hygiene will go a long way.

Amethyst

Amethyst is said to bring peace and tranquillity to the home, calm the mind, and create a protective shield that wards off negative energy. Many people choose to sleep with a small amethyst under their pillows.

Black Obsidian

Black Obsidian is held in high-esteem for its ability to shield against negativity as well as absorbing negativity in the environment. One to keep in your pocket to combat any turbulence you might encounter in your day-to-day life.

Rose Quartz

If you’re working on self-love this Rose Quartz is the stone for you. The ultimate heart healer, Rose Quartz radiates the frequency of pure, unconditional love. A great wedding or new baby gift, you can also place a piece of rose quartz under your bed to improve sleep.

Clear Quartz

As its moniker would suggest, Clear Quartz clears confusion and brings focus during meditation. It also assists in clear communication so it’s a great one to have in your pocket ahead of a presentation.

Sun Pyrite

Sun Pyrite is the stone for manifestation and taking action to create abundance in your life. Also, it helps to bring mental clarity. As such, a brief mid-day meditation with one of these could replace your 4pm coffee.

Smoky Quartz

Smoky Quartz is known for its ability to remove negative energy, and even offers protection from electromagnetic fields and computers. Leave on your desk or near a router to reap the benefits. In addition, Smoky Quartz has grounding properties. Reach for this stone when you’re stressed or your body tenses up.

Titanium Aura Quartz

Titanium Aura Quartz is the most powerful and has the highest vibration of all quartz. This heavy hitter helps you to feel grounded, centred and energised all at once.

Tiger’s Eye

Another great grounder, Tiger’s Eye Keeps you centred and calm, regardless of the situation. Carry in your pocket to give you strength in difficult situations.

Carnelian

Carnelian helps with taking big leaps of faith and action to manifest your dreams. As it promotes positive life choices and success it’s a good one to add to a manifesting altar.

Citine

Finally, Citine, we’ve left this until last as it’s know to boost the energy of the other crystals around it. Overall, this one’s great for manifestation, prosperity and abundance.

Keep your eye on our alternative events and for more on crystals you can check out our book selection https://reformation.ie/product-category/self-care/books/ as well as our our crystal collection.