Let's get started: how to work with crystals
This article is an introduction to how to work with crystals. This guide is meant to be fun, practical and for some crystals, how to work with them in a safe way.
There are many ways to start on your crystal journey: you can adopt a methodical and scientific approach or a completely intuitive one. Whichever resonates with you, let's not forget that crystals have subtle energies and chemical properties that act on our bodies impacting our physical health and and energy balance.
Work with crystals in a safe manner
So here we are, you are either at the store checking everything on sight or you just got the package in the mail. First, welcome that crystal into your space or to your crystal family if you already own some. As you welcome that crystal, set the intention to clear it from the energies of the traveling and ask it to soften its energy so you can both acclimate and get to know each other better.
Crystals with copper, aluminum, mercury, and sulfur contents
Very soon you will work with crystals in this category. They are very popular and chances are you'll get these in your first or second round of purchases. These are chrysocolla, lapis lazuli, turquoise, and malachite, to name a few. These crystals can be toxic and side effects can lead to serious health issues. When working with crystals with these properties, please:
Always wash your hands after handling
Preferably, use in tumbled form
Do not place them directly on the skin unless is jewelry already purchased as such
Do not use in elixirs
This is a basic list of precautions to get your attention. Always, do your research for any new crystal you get. A good place to start is the International Gem Society website.
Crystals that are sensitive or break down in certain environmental conditions
I'll be brief in this section because all you want to remember for now is what hurts or destroys these awesome crystals:
Gypsum base crystals like selenite and halite will break down or dissolve in water.
Please, keep them in a dry place and away from any water source.
Hematite and Magnetite will rust with water.
Be careful with sun exposure for "recharging" crystals as the color will fade. It doesn't matter if they are in the quartz family, if you don't want to see the beautiful purples of amethyst go away or the gold and caramel tones of citrine, do not expose them to sunlight.
How do you sense energy is key to working with crystals
Before we get to the steps, I want you to do some easy homework:
When you think of a specific crystal or crystals in general, what's the first thing that happens? Do you get a physical reaction? A mental picture or an emotion? This is important because it helps to understand how you learn and receive information. You can take a mental note of these or write down your notes for later.
Then, what do you do next?
Do you run to your local metaphysical store or go online to buy, or
do you start researching the crystal and take in all the knowledge you can before inviting them to your space?
As I said, keep your notes, and let's see what's the first thing to learn as you start to work with crystals.
How to Start Your Beginner's Crystal Toolbox
It all begins with an idea.
If you have been trying to start a basic crystal toolbox for a while, you have probably found tons of "prescribed" lists of crystals you "must have". You've been doing research and by now you have either bought a lot of stuff or you still don't know where to start.
My approach is different. It is based on the combination of experience and structured learning. When I say learning, I mean both on this subject and knowing yourself.
What is your approach to learning? Is it methodical or intuitive? Can it be both? Sure! But most important, it must be fun! One way or the other, by now you have a pretty good idea of how you sense energy and what you are drawn to. This is a key part of your learning as it applies to whatever modality of energy healing you choose to cultivate and practice. Let's use that to start your crystal toolbox.
Let's start with the senses
Most of the dense energy forms that surround us are detected or noted by our physical senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. Through our body parts equipped to sense a certain frequency range, we receive and process information about the physicality that surrounds us. We learn and we remember. In the metaphysical aspect, there is another in non-physical form for every physical sense we have.
Most of us are attracted to things and experiences by their visual appeal. Through those sensors called eyes, we absorb light, colors, shapes, dimensions, and the associated contrast (the variety) to each one of these signals. Through hearing, we experience the mechanical and sound vibration (yes, though we don't "see it", sound is physical) in all the frequencies the human ear can tune in. These energies become more dense when we experience the physicality of the other senses: touch, taste, and smell.
If you are a "visual" person, you'll start picking on color and shape. Then, based on that preference, I'd recommend the following for each color group below. Buy as many as you'd like or at minimum, in groups of three of each type of crystal.
Crystals by color energy/groups
Black - My personal favorite and what I consider a building block is black tourmaline. Check out this article No matter what other stones you like, you must get black tourmaline.
Red - From the bright reds to the deep tones, you can start with red jasper, red jade, amber, and garnet.
Orange - Plenty to choose from within the jaspers, amber, carnelian and agate. If you did your exercise sensing energy, and are looking for a pick-me-up, either carnelian or amber will do.
Yellow - Again, jaspers. What a generous crystal! You can get yellow jasper, yellow calcite, amber and golden tiger's eye if you like the beautiful color contrast of the brown and gold bands.
Green - Green aventurine, amazonite, green jade, calcite, chrysoprase and green moss agate. Though one of my favorites, if you are a beginner, let's save malachite for later.
Teal, Aqua and Light Blues - Turquoise, blue lace agate, blue chalcedony, blue amazonite, angelite and celestite.
Blue, Indigo - Look no further: my all-time favorite lapis lazuli. You can also check out sodalite, blue aventurine, agate, and blue apatite.
Purple - Lepidolite, tanzanite, purple fluorite, and sugilite.
Whites, clear - White calcedony, howlite, and selenite (keep it dry!)
Crystals by Energy Signals/Centers
To complement the color groups above and start your crystal combinations, let's see what kind of energy signal you receive from your other senses both physical and metaphysical. Remember, that energy signal can be a thought, an inspiration, an emotion, a physical sensation, a memory or a call to action.
If that energy was manifested as a strong emotion or feeling we start with the heart. Those are green and pink stones but also check on your reaction. Calm, peace, and relaxation typically come from the light blue stones: blue lace agate, amazonites, and chalcedony. Here's where you can combine the energies of green and blue.
A memory, an image, or an impression of recorded events accompanied by strong visuals, we are receiving in our sixth chakra. Deep blue and indigo stones stimulate this interaction: sodalite and lapis lazuli.
Sounds, melodies, voices...are they in your head? A bit tricky as the impulse reaction would be six chakra or third eye and they might be but communication is in the throat chakra. Think of ENT (ears, nose, and throat). So is the sense of smell so when we recall a memory, watch out for this type. Here is where you combine the light and dark blues.
A call for action. The impulse and the confidence to act on it comes from the solar plexus, so a yellow stone triggered it. This is the fun part because we've been working on ourselves so far and feel the impulse to act on those signals and work with or influence others. Combine solar plexus chakra (yellow) crystals when pursuing your action: lapis lazuli to speak confidently and truthfully, chrysocolla and chrysoprase to speak from the heart, fluorite or amethyst for mental clarity.
A couple of clarifications
Since this is a beginner's crystal toolbox, I purposely left out the quartz family but that doesn't mean you should not get them if you want to. Just check out my other article, Quartz, Quartz, Quartz! before you start adding the master healers to the mix.
And lastly, a word of caution: Make sure you get your crystals from reputable stores or dealers. If you are set to buy turquoise or sugilite, please know these are rare. In some instances, you will be offered dyed howlite or African jasper instead of turquoise.
What else do I need in my crystal toolbox?
Now you have crystals you'll need a couple of basic tools to add to your crystal toolbox:
A pendulum - This is a basic communication and to me a "diagnostic" tool. You can buy a pendulum from your local metaphysical store (I prefer this method best) or online. If you rather wait for an opportunity to buy in person you can always make one! Yes, all you need is a solid chain and a piece of metal or crystals of reasonable weight. My first pendulum was a quartz pendant from a choker necklace that broke. Since then, I have acquired several...
Bags or boxes to store your crystals - If you get crystals in rough cut, you want to keep them separate from the tumbled ones to prevent scratching. You might also want to store them by color. Please, make sure you get nice quality fabric bags - no plastic, please!
Smudging or cleansing kit - To some, this is the most important tool in the crystal toolbox. A very popular method to clear energy from your crystals after you work with them is white sage and palo santo smudge it.
If you are like me and cannot take strong scents, I use black tourmaline. Just have the crystals rest on them. After some period of time (I do mine overnight), I do an energy check with the pendulum. I take the crystals and place the pendulum on top of them and check for the Yes or No answer the pendulum has been programmed to.
Oh, We love Amethyst!
Amethyst is in the quartz family and therefore, one of the master healers. Its color goes from the soft lilac to deep purple and the white bands in the chevron amethyst. Have you seen black amethyst? Check out this beauty for a "black-tie affair".
Black amethyst
Yes, we do! Why?
We love amethyst for its beauty and high vibration but are we taking advantage of everything this crystal has to offer? As a master healer, amethyst supports the immune system and helps with many physical, psychological, and/or behavioral conditions.
Amethyst opens, clears, and balances the crown energy center or chakra. This chakra feeds key systems and parts of our body: the nervous system, neurological functions, and behavioral centers. Basically, everything related to the brain and its functions. This crystal supports the health and proper functioning of the nervous system and alleviates migraines, mood swings, depression, and sleeping disorders. Use this master healer any day combined with rose quartz to lower anxiety and promote restful sleep.
About addiction and substance abuse
Yes, there is some truth to the old lore about substance addiction. This crystal's name comes from the Greek word amethustos, meaning "not intoxicated". The ancient myths say amethyst prevents the individual from becoming drunk and stays clear-headed instead. Based on this belief, the ancient Greeks decorated their wine goblets with amethyst to make the wine powerless. They also wore it in their bodies to prevent intoxication, uncontrollable passions, and overindulgence. The belief in amethyst's ability to control and transform spread to other cultures and religions. For example, in the bishop rings as a reminder of divine compassion and to not become "drunk" with power.
Please understand amethyst is not the antidote for intoxication, addictive behavior or substance abuse as the ancient Greeks believed. Yes, intention is the main component and so is inviting the energy but let's remember how crystals work. The frequency of the energy body (our personal vibration) must be synchronized with that of the crystal. The personal vibration will be building up to that point to promote calm, and peace and to lower anxiety. As a crown chakra crystal, it makes the overall state of being become clearer and increases awareness. The resulting state of being helps to stay away from the crutch of addictions and substance abuse.
Always seek professional advice if you or a loved one is struggling with mental disease or substance abuse.
Using amethyst every day
Amethyst is the dream stone. If you want to experience lucid dreaming, place it under your pillow or nightstand. Incorporating this crystal in your mediation practice will restore your connection with Source and your Higher Self. It will also help to access memories of the Akash. You will become more open to receive guidance and experience an increase of your intuitive abilities.
There are all sorts of amethyst jewelry. You can wear it every day as you will find it in rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants, and necklaces. If you don't wear jewelry or prefer something more discrete, there is always the medicine pouch. This is a fun and creative way to have the benefits of this crystal with you all the time. Just pick a fabric pouch and place tumbled pieces in it or combine them with other crystals. Anything from the quartz family makes a powerful combination.
Whether you need healing emotional conditions or if you are ready to transform your energy, amethyst is your crystal.
Quartz, Quartz, Quartz!
It all begins with an idea.
Quartz is a wonderful, amazing, high-vibration crystal. Is The Master Crystal. Many of you might think is The Crystal so "I'll get quartz and that's all I need"...
Hold on a second, let's not go so fast. Yes, as far as master crystal and powerful vibration, all the above is true but clear quartz is the enhancer and amplifier of everything... good and bad. Be mindful of your intention, emotional state and point of attraction when you are adding quartz to the works or to your space. Let's do a quick self-check before we grab that 3 lbs generator :)
As a high vibration crystal, when we try to align with, where is our vibration? What is our point of attraction for that desire or goal? Is there a gap or do we feel balanced? Is there is a gap between your vibration and the crystal, you will feel it physically and energetically. Some of the physical symptoms of the energy surge are:
Dizziness
Quick temperature fluctuations
Numbness on one side of the body or not feeling the bottom half of your body
A feel you haven't had a meal or
Not being able to eat at all
Sleeplessness
Out of body experiences
Quartz vibration is not going to come down to where you are, it is you who have to build up to align with it. To avoid or lessen the effects of the energy shock, make sure you are grounded and your intention is clear. If you feel there might be some gaps, do a chakra balancing meditation before you start working with quartz.
But honestly, who can resist the beauty and allure of quartz? So grab a piece of black tourmaline and let's look at the most popular master crystals:
Smokey quartz is the grounding crystal of this group. You can find it in all shades from dark taupe, brown, smoke, and really dark smokey brown when irradiated to enhance color. This crystal supports physical health by strengthening the immune system, supporting organs that eliminate toxins and process elimination (kidney, liver, pancreas), and by assisting the body in metabolizing radiation faster. Is a root chakra crystal so it anchors to the earth and natural elements, and brings a sense of stability.
Smokey quartz is also found in other beautiful natural combinations: smokey citrine and amethyst.
Hematoid Quartz comes from clusters that have high concentrations of hematite (my favorite sciatica pain reliever) and/or limonite. The healing properties are similar to those of smoky quartz when it comes to supporting the health of organs that support processing toxins and elimination. This variety of quartz also supports focus and concentration; reach out to it when you feel you need to get it together! Visually, this crystal makes you feel you are looking at mountains in the sunset...
Hematoid quartz
Citrine is your own personal sun shining in your center of power, the solar plexus. I will not get into too many details about this wonderful master crystal, just check the article Citrine and the Feeling of Being on Top of the World!
Rose Quartz is probably in the top 3 favorites of the quartz family together with clear quartz and amethyst. If you were to acquire a piece of quartz without knowing how this energy will affect you, definitely get rose quartz. It is considered a heart chakra crystal and the crystal of love...but what kind of love? Unconditional love, self-love, love for all things, and compassion. Is a crystal of healing and opening.
Amethyst...what a beauty! From the softness of the pale lilac to the intense purple color and the naturally occurring ametrine, it is truly irresistible. Aside from the visual appeal, this is a powerful crown chakra crystal. Use it in meditation or during sleep for lucid dreaming. As for physical health, it supports your immune system and assists in the treatment of addictions. Learn more about amethyst in the article, Oh, We all Love Amethyst!
These are not the only ones in the big family of quartz crystals. We'll also explore more varieties...keep reading!
Carnelian and the vibrancy of life itself
Carnelian is one of my favorite stones. You'll identify it by that beautiful, candy-like orange color and well...it looks vibrant! It also has other nice contrast colors like bands of quartz or the maroon tint here and there.
The vibration of carnelian is that of vitality, energy, creation drive, and physical health. A nice combination to feel driven and confident is to pair it with smokey quartz and citrine, and you are ready to take on anything!
It plays nicely in both color and energy harmony with agate, jasper, and contrasts color with amazonite.
Carnelian brings you joy and lust for life
Carnelian is associated with the sacral (or second) chakra. This is where your creativity, sexuality, and emotions reside. Add this crystal to your chakra kit as your basic stone for the second chakra. This crystal's healing energy delivers life force to organs and tissue. It supports reproductive health in box sexes and assists with fertility issues and problems associated with sexual health or trauma. Carnelian also supports the absorption of nutrients and improves blood circulation. This crystal combined with smokey quartz provides healing energy to all aspects of physical health.
The color and vibration of this crystal work to enhance, supplement, or balance energies with different stone combinations. If you are looking for that push to take action on your desires, add citrine to the mix! Citrine will bring out the energy from the solar plexus to boost your confidence. Need it to work a little faster or gain momentum? Set your intention and add clear quartz. If you have an under-active sacral chakra, clear quartz and carnelian help to raise the vibration to balance.
Working with color energy
Colors have different vibrations that complement or balance each other. The relationship between color energies are easily understood when looking at a color wheel. Say for instance, you want to know which colors complement orange. Those would be the colors directly opposite in the wheel. This color relationship creates stability.
Complementary colors will also work in bridging a gap in "what am I missing" sort of way. Let' say you are a creative person who despite your desires and efforts cannot bring your projects to manifest. The desire is strong, the creation is there but you cannot express it nor bring it to others. This when you pair up carnelian with a throat chakra crystal. The blue color energy will promote self expression, give you "the voice" so you can put your creation out there. Your creation manifested and clearly communicated to others.
Carnelian will bring vitality, energy, and motivation to unleash your creativity!
Not all red crystals are created the same
This post is the companion to the YouTube video How to pick the right red crystal.
Red crystals are associated to the root chakra. They promote grounding, protection, and the sense of being anchored to the physical body and connected to the earth.
Red stones also help with taking away that "spacey-loopy" feeling after working with high vibration crystals. This happens when we are not able to process that energy through our energy system and ground it. This is a quality most red crystals share with the black ones. That is why crystals of both colors can be used for the root chakra.
Red crystals also promote physical health in different systems and organs. They are also crystals of vitality, passion, and courage. Now let’s take a look at the most common red crystals.
Red jasper
This crystal seems to be very popular lately. A lot of crystal teachers and websites are discussing red jasper these days and rightfully so. Jaspers are affordable and easily available. Red jasper is a great crystal for nurturing and for making you feel empowered but in such a nice healing way with its subtle energy. It promotes emotional stability, and that quality makes you look at problems and difficulties in a different way. When it comes to the physical, it is a great crystal for anything that has to do with reproductive systems and promotes healthy growth of the fetus. Red jasper works on the first three chakras: root, base, and solar plexus.
Bloodstone
This is a crystal of courage and justice according to different myths and legends. Bloodstone is known as the stone of martyrs. According to legend, it was created when the blood of Christ fell on red jasper at the foot of the cross. During the middle ages, bloodstone was used to carve scenes of martyrdom. When it comes to healing and lifting our vibration, it is best to set the legends aside. Suffering nor seeking reward from this low-vibration emotion is productive. When using bloodstone for any type of healing, we want to connect with the energy of courage, strength, and self-esteem.
Bloodstone can have more quartz, like the one on the left, or the red spots
Bloodstone is the crystal to gather the strength and courage to change your life to one aligned with your higher self and purpose. In other words, bloodstone is the crystal to summon your personal power.
Red garnet
Like many other stones, garnet comes in many colors and of course, the healing properties vary depending on the color. When it comes to garnet, there is an additional quality of prosperity to it. Red garnet is a stone of relationships and commitment. It removes energetic blocks and everything that takes away your vitality. For physical healing, this crystal is energizing, revitalizing, and a blood cleanser.
Red jade
This is a life force crystal. This crystal is about fearlessness, strength, and action. Is the fire running through your veins. The energy makes it an excellent physical healer and rejuvenator for those who feel or lost vitality. It also helps with pain and is a cleanser of filtration and elimination organs and systems.
Longevity is also associated to red jade. Is an excellent crystal for all kinds of healers to carry with you.
Red jade has a different chemistry than green but in the metaphysical aspect is as highly desirable. Like green jade, it positively affects prosperity but for very specific tasks: start-ups, promotions, a new job or business. Basically, the initiating tasks as opposed to long term goals.
Hematite
This is another one that comes in a variety of colors from black, grays, metallic, brown and red. The name comes from haima, the Greek word for blood. This crystal helps with the health of the blood, iron absorption, and with overcoming addictions. Do not combine with amethyst because they have opposing energies, one is dense and grounding while the other is high vibration. This is the reason why hematite is a great crystal for grounding excess energy from working with high vibration crystals.
For women who struggle with self-esteem and being confident, this is a crystal to add to the collection.
Red spinel
This crystal works by connecting base and heart chakra energies. It enhances passion and desire and like other red crystals, it brings vitality and optimism. Red spinel was taken for ruby in ancient times due to the similarity of the red tones.
Like black spinel, is not so easy to find in your neighborhood. I wanted to include it because there are three things this crystal helps us with that are so so critical in the times we are living:
Stress management, especially when it comes to things that make you fearful
Tolerance in the area of ideological differences or with those who do not align with your ideals
Relationship management
Ruby, Sapphire and Beryl
These crystals are expensive and some of them are rare. Rubies, sapphires are among the most precious gemstones together with diamonds and emeralds.
Ruby is connected to the root chakra but is also a heart chakra crystal. This stone enhances passion, vitality, motivation and is also associated with divine love and divine creativity.
I want to discuss red sapphire as a point of caution. Sapphires come in many colors but red is not one of them; it does not occur naturally. Red sapphire is the result of a modern chemical process but this does not mean is fake. Lab-grown gems have the same chemical properties as natural ones. There is no narrative of healing benefits for this specific lab created crystal. They are still expensive so be aware of this when investing on a gemstone for healing purposes.
Beryl comes in many colors. As for healing properties, beryl helps in dealing with stress and calming the mind. Famous members of this family are the green and blue ones: emerald and aquamarine. ome are of the opinion that is the crystal to deal with self-imposed (as in manifested) illness. Red beryl is exceedingly rare and is one of the most expensive gemstones in the planet.
Crystals for Love and Passion
The season when everybody is looking for crystals for love and passion has arrived! This is one of the most popular subjects in crystal and energy healing which also happens to be holiday friendly. If you live in those places, Valentine's Day is an occasion to break from the bitter cold and boring white landscape by filling it with fun shades of pink, purple and red. There is plenty of flowers, delicious varieties of sweets, entertainment, and all sorts of gifts that capture the spirit of the season.
Being jewelry one of the most popular gifts, we would like to choose pieces with crystals that embody the energies of love, passion, and romance. Whether you want to bring more love to your life, love and accept yourself or you want to attract romantic love…
Here are my top recommendations for crystals for love and passion:
Emerald
Emerald has the energy of the green ray, the vibration of the heart chakra, and the power of bringing love into your life. Through the ages, this crystal has been credited with attracting successful love and keeping the truthfulness of that love.
Divine love, happiness, vibrancy, clear vision, and the lushness of nature are all embodied in emerald.
Ruby
Ruby has been known as a crystal of intense energy and helps to set the boundaries to protect your energy. It carries vibrancy, enthusiasm, and desire. As a base chakra crystal, it stimulates sexual energy and can help with sexual dysfunction.
Feel you need to work up the courage to tell that special someone how you feel? Tap into the energy of ruby!
Red garnet
Red garnet bracelet and tumbled stones
This type of garnet crystal carries passion and commitment. When used for physical healing, this crystal helps clean the blood and revitalize your body. Garnet fuels passion and sex drive but it also inspires love and commitment to your partner.
Red garnet gives you courage and strength, qualities that make it an excellent root chakra stone.
Carnelian
Carnelian tumbled stones
Carnelian is the go-to crystal for vitality, self-expression, and creativity. As a sacral chakra crystal, it works on the physical aspects of sexual health and assists in healing trauma. Carnelian combined with red garnet is a booster combination to treat low libido.
All the different manifestations of love
The love for family, for country, nature...for all the things that make our lives joyful. We celebrate friendship as one of the treasures of our existence. It is the first love that comes once we step out of the family circle and sometimes that love morphs into a different manifestation like family or a romantic partner.
Different crystals represent that feeling. My favorites are rose quartz and amethyst. This is a beautiful and high-vibration combination for a token of love and devotion. Rose quartz is the crystal of unconditional love. It helps find self-love and acceptance. There cannot be any love that does not start with this.
Do not forget the quartz boost! Anything can be programmed into this master crystal. Check this post to learn more about the power of the quartz.
No matter what kind of love you entertain during this year celebrations, do not leave out the higher, unconditional love!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
If you like this article and want to know about heart chakra crystals, check this video:
Not all blue crystals are created the same
Disclosure: I want to start this series on crystals by color and I decided on blue because is my favorite color!
Blue crystals include from the palest shade of blue, borderline in the blue-green (teal?) to deep blues and indigos.
Blue stones are thought to be calming and soothing, sometimes as a “downer” and though that might be true (except for the downer part) for some of the blue crystals, the belief that blue is low energy is wrong. Allow me a quick refresher on basic science:
In the visible light frequency spectrum (that is the color chart that starts with red and ends with violet) the slowest or low-frequency colors are reds and oranges. From there, the energy increases (the frequency is higher), and the higher frequency is at violet. Anyways…
Blue crystals are higher-vibration crystals…and they work hard. Just remember that even to calm you down, they must!
Let’s talk about light blue crystals
These are traditionally associated with the throat chakra, which is your energy center for self-expression and overall communication. This chakra is not only about speaking but also listening so think ears and throat. Crystals like blue lace agate and aquamarine will help you with speaking, they clear communication blocks. Aquamarine will help with your fear of public speaking.
Communication and the ability to speak your truth is a common quality of blue crystals from our physical ability to our extra-dimensional nature. Celestite and angelite are the crystals for communication with spirit guides and angelic realms. If you are working on your psychic abilities and practicing channeling, angelite is an excellent choice. Celestite is a crystal that can also be used with the third eye chakra. It will help you at a physical level with mental clarity and to work on clairvoyant abilities.
Medium to dark blue
Blue kyanite is my favorite of the kyanites. This is a high-vibration crystal, and it aligns all the chakras. It helps in developing your psychic gifts, opens the throat chakra and it also helps you contact your spirit guides.
Lapis lazuli – I had talked about this stone before in my YouTube videos and Instagram posts. This crystal has been found in the most ancient civilizations on Earth and had a protagonist role in all of them. It was used in amulets in Sumer, Babylonia, and Ancient Egypt, where it also had a place in building walls and the pharaoh’s funeral mask. Lapis is the stone of royalty, of truth, and is the one you are going to wear to deliver a powerful speech when you want to command the floor.
Azurite – This is a third-eye chakra crystal, and it can be used for third-eye activation. Azurite also helps in developing clairvoyance, channeling, and intuition. Is also believed to stimulate the intellect.
Sodalite is another of my favorites. It shares with other blue crystals the enhancement of psychic abilities, and understanding of the truth and helps understand patterns and systems. If you are drawn to astrology, tarot, geomancy, or runes, this is the crystal you want to add to your kit.
If you are a teacher, sodalite is also for you because it helps in explaining complex thoughts and concepts.
About the blue-green stones, greenish blue, or blueish green
Depending on the hues, you can count aquamarine in this group, as well as labradorite and chrysocolla. Labradorite is a go-to crystal for those actively working as healers because it expands the aura and makes your own personal energy shield. Is also the crystal for shamanic journey.
What I mentioned before about speaking your truth? These crystals also have a connection to the heart so in a manner one of the biggest attributes of these crystals is “speaking from the heart” or heartfelt communication.
These are the most popular or easier-to-find blue crystals in your favorite store. There are many more. You can check the companion YouTube video for this post. This will give you a start and a lot to experiment with in your crystal journey and psychic development.
Does size matter...when it comes to crystals?
Does size matter? This is one of the questions that have been going on for a long time in the crystal world and metaphysics in general. If you want a crystal grid or any sort of crystal therapy to be effective, we must go for the largest crystal we can afford and that is the school of thought of some experts. However, we need to think about what kind of dimension or multi-dimensional space we want to live and manifest in. Are we set to do everything in 3D or are we progressing or choosing to manifest in 5D and follow the principle of “as above so below”?
If we believe the notion that “bigger is better”, we will have to conclude that either ascended beings that once or currently walk the earth, or extraordinarily compassionate human beings will have to have a heart larger than their bodies. Actually, making the metaphor a matter of fact? So, we can see here that the principle of bigger is not better. The same will apply to the brain. Did Nikola Tesla, Albert Einstein or Niels Bohr have brains that they could not fit in their bodies? Obviously not.
What we want is an electromagnetic field
Let me add another teaser because this piece is meant to encourage some thinking and reflection on our paradigms, in a manner of speaking. Do you know how big a human heart is? The average human heart weighs between 230 to 340 grams (8-12 ounces) depending on gender and is about the size of a fist.
Do you know that the electromagnetic field of the heart has been measured only to a certain amount because we don't have the technology to precisely capture that measurement? According to the Hearth Math Institute, the heart’s energy field is the largest of any of the organs in the human body. The amplitude of the electrical component exceeds that of the brain by a factor of 60. Check this article from the e-book, Science of the Heart, Exploring the Role of the Heart in Human Performance.
By now you might be saying “sorry you're comparing biological life forms to non-organic or non-biological”… Well, hold on a second there because we are all made of the same elements more or less, and let’s not categorize what we do not fully understand yet. Nikola Tesla made that point in his book The Problem of Increasing Human Energy: “In a crystal, we have clear evidence of the existence of a formative life principle, and though we cannot understand the life of a crystal, it is nonetheless a living being”
Sorry, I digress a little bit…
Let's take for instance a chip or a transmitter or just the GPS in the car or the phone. Now we are getting into the kind of elements crystals are made of and what they are used for in modern technology applications. How big do these have to be to be effective and at the same time practical? Small. The S21 Ultra 5G phone is 8.9 mm (0.35 inch) thick and weighs 229 grams (8 ounces). Going back to the question: why do we need a 15 lb crystal for? Just because we love it and enjoy it immensely in our 3D space.
My take on the subject is
Going back to the size question…in 3D is the number of turns in the coil and the relative permeability of the material that is directly proportional to the field…not the size…so anyways…
What it all comes down to is that we need to understand this concept of size to increase the electromagnetic field does not necessarily apply to our multi-dimensional existence. Size is a 3D constraint or quality if you may, in our multi-dimensional existence. Frequency and the ability to make contact, communicate, propagate the signal, and being able to receive are the most important functions throughout our planes of existence. Our ability to connect to the field.
The question that remains here is: do you want to limit your signal to 3D and constantly chase “bigger and better” or do you want to exist in the continuum? Do you want to live in a state of matter let that be organic or inorganic or embrace our eternal energy?
Energy is all there is.
Not all black crystals are created the same
We all own one or two or maybe more black crystals in our collection. A common characteristic of black crystals is that they are used for grounding and protection. Black crystals are a bit challenging because they almost look and feel the same. That is often the case with rocks.
Like red, black crystals are associated to the root chakra but many of them are strong earth chakra stones. Some of them work on the upper chakras and a lot of them are not crystals (in terms of chemical structure).
How do we know that we are using the correct crystal?
Let’s take a look at the properties of the crystals most commonly available in your favorite metaphysical store.
Black onyx
Onyx comes in different colors. Banded, multicolor and black are the most common. This is an immensely popular crystal for amulets and jewelry. It is an earth chakra crystal. For those whose energies are all scattered, it helps with concentration and to stay focused. It also helps to manage stress and grief. In the psychic aspect, black onyx is a good crystal to explore past lives and heal issues that created past lives trauma.
If you are exploring psychic abilities, use onyx to practice psychometry (the ability to discover facts about an event or person by touching inanimate objects associated with them).
Black obsidian
This is a rock that forms by rapid cooling of volcano lava. The cooling happens so fast that does not allow crystal growth. In the past it was used to make tools and weapons.
The best use for black obsidian is to shield from negativity and for cutting ties. This includes cutting off all those beliefs, thoughts, emotions, and habits that no longer serve us.
Snowflake obsidian is a variation of obsidian which is easy to recognize because of the white and light grey spots.
Obsidian is a good stone to use in developing psychic abilities for those interested in scrying.
Jet
Jet is fossilized wood. Like the other black stones, it shares the ability to protect and to ground. Jet is special though because it helps break with negative behavioral patterns and with irrational fears, like fear of dark forces or attacks.
Black Agate
Agate is a translucent variety of microcrystalline quartz. Is highly desirable for jewelry and accessories because of the variety of colors and the beautiful, banded patterns. Black agate is the crystal to help us see what lies beneath or what is behind what we are avoiding or fear. Is a good crystal to overcome obstacles and limitations. Its grounding and calming energy promotes balance of mind, body and spirit.
Shungite
The first thing to know about this rock is to make sure we obtain it from reputable dealers and stores. Shungite is known for being a purification stone, especially when used for treating water and for its anti-bacterial properties. That has to do with carbon content, which must be over 98%.
When it comes to the metaphysical, this stone works in the upper chakras. Like black tourmaline, it has that energy shield, protects from electromagnetic field radiation and psychic attacks. It also helps astral travel.
Other not so common but "must-have's"
Black spinel
Black spinel works like a grounding cord. Like black amethyst, this crystal will help healers recover from fatigue, and to ground excess high vibration energy. For all other healers, caregivers, and especially first responders included, who are exposed to a lot of pain and suffering resulting from tragic situations, black spinel helps with anger and grief.
Black amethyst
Black amethyst is amethyst with hematite inclusions. Is a “pick me up” crystal for healers that are working too much or feel burnt out. This is a crystal for the higher chakras, especially the third eye. It shares all the healing properties of the purple amethyst, but it has a grounding effect to it.
My top pick for black crystals is black tourmaline, check my other post on why I think black tourmaline is the bomb. You can find it anywhere, is affordable and it has layers of protection from the physical aspects all the way to psychic.
If you enjoyed this post, check out the YouTube video.
The root chakra is tricky
This is a theme that has been coming up in my recent experiences and in conversations with my close friends...not to mention that is also "in the air". The pandemic we are experiencing as a human collective in this planet is influencing our informational, physical and energetic bodies all in different ways. How intense the impact is based on where are we in our personal development and our beliefs system.
Some of us though healthy and fit, can't seem to resist giving the current events some or a lot of attention. That's the information body, the mind, going on overdrive with such stimulation. This is something easy to fix with deliberate choice and change of habits: change the channel or pick another show. We can also choose to enjoy the things that haven't changed or start enjoying those we had wished for "should I have had the time". These choices positively affect many of our energy systems and bring the chakras closer to a balanced state.
When it comes to the physical body and starting point of our earthly connection, we have the root chakra. The energetic function of this chakra is to connect us to this planet and give us our sense of belonging in this space and our sense of safety. This chakra taps directly into our basic needs and how we relate to those. The healthy aspects translate into: I have plenty to eat, I have plenty of money, I have a safe home. I am safe, healthy, and happy. The opposite of this also holds true as we have seen manifested more these days in the news of the loss of life and safety. No wonder this chakra has been overstimulated as we feel for those in need and give our compassion and service. Don't forget the root of compassion is as simple as "what if it was me."
What to do, then?
Fear for your survival, the primal kind, will deplete the energy of the root chakra. Fear of running out of food, losing a job, a loved one, health, and ultimately physical death are obvious imbalances of the root chakra. So what is the tricky part? It takes form when there is no apparent reason to be afraid.
The activation or welcoming of this primal fear comes in the form of holding back, purposely depriving ourselves and creating a sense of loss for things we haven't lost yet. This is all rooted (pardon the redundancy) in a belief that is coming into awareness now. Starts with the perception of what this means to us and then the characterization of the consequence.
Take, for instance, the perception that changes are unexpected and, therefore uncomfortable and painful to go through. The characterization is that change inevitably leads to a loss. Nobody is denying there have been uncomfortable changes but they are not permanent. There is activity happening at a higher level that we must observe. See how these and the next events will play out. The point of view of the observer has no perception and no consequence. It just is. To those who had chosen to play a role in it, we owe them respect and gratitude for the learning.
That sounds tricky enough but how does "tricky" play every day? The answer is: holding back from enjoyment in any way because of a feeling of uncertainty. It happens when we perceive threats to our safety and well-being even when nothing hasn't changed. This is a manifestation of how that root chakra is storing and processing a thought form that has upgraded to an emotion. That sense of mourning for some yet-to-come loss, the disconnect or wanting to disconnect from what is "happening on this Earth", the isolation and separation, "missing out on life" as we perceive it or had experienced it...being cut out from our roots. That is the sometimes tricky root chakra.
For more on chakra crystals, check out this video on root chakra crystals.
My top 5 energy medicine and crystal books
Let me start by saying that I purposely left out "must have" energy medicine and crystal healing books as they are classics and by all means you must acquire them for your reference library. Those are "Energy Medicine, The Scientific Basis" by James L. Oschman Ph.D., Judy Hall's Crystal Bible series, and Melody's "Love is in the Earth"...if you are lucky enough to find a copy. That being said, the books below mark milestones in my learning and resonate with me for different reasons. Also, these are books that I had recommended or given as gifts to my friends.
Please note that I did not assign a ranking from 1 to 5. I just listed them as I found them around the house. Each one served a very specific purpose in a given moment of your journey. They will serve you well.
You can also check the YouTube video for more recommendations on crystal books.
Here are my top 5 energy medicine and crystal therapy books:
Energy Medicine: How to Use Your Body's Energies for Optimum Health and Vitality by Donna Eden and David Feinstein
Before I became a crystal lover, it was energy medicine what brought me into this world. This book was my "first encounter" and I consider it the foundation of the subject of energy and vibrational medicine. Though a dense book, almost desktop reference type yet an easy read as it is not saturated with technical terms. Here, Donna Eden shares her journey, teaches us about subtle energies, and also integrates principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. I find her descriptions of the meridian systems most comprehensive. It is just so complete!
The Book of Crystal Grids: A Practical Guide to Achieving Your Dreams by Philip Permutt
This one is so special to me because sacred geometry and crystal grids is my thing! I really love this book. I learned about it from Ashely Leavy's online Crystal Summit interviews a few years ago. Her excitement about this book made me get it and I am so glad I did! I'm happy that I got it in print too. This book is not only educational, it is so beautiful! There is something about its beauty and the visual appeal that communicates the intention and purpose of these pages were put together. It makes for an easy read and learning of the basics of grid geometry and crystal combinations. This book made me step out of the box. Up until that moment, I was a sticker for form and uniformity. I was sort of "matchy-matchy" when picking the crystals but wow, the combinations Mr. Permutt creates blow your mind. The Book of Crystal Grids is a work of beauty, it stimulates creativity and brings inspiration.
Hands of Light by Barbara Ann Brennan
There are many reasons I like this book. Dr. Brennan is now an author, a healer, and an educator but she is also a physicist so that right there appealed to me when I was still in the engineering profession. This sort of provides the validation of the scientific aspects of energy healing. Hands of Light was her first book in a series of works about the healing modality based on the human energy field and consciousness. In this book, Dr. Brennan takes you through the life experiences that got her to study this field and eventually founding The Barbara Brennan School of Healing. She discusses the use of crystals in healing sessions to clear the aura and remove "mucus" from the energy field. Please note again my advice that this is also a book to get in print format.
If you are in a technical profession like engineering, applied science, or medical science, check it out.
Crystals for Energy Healing A Practical Sourcebook of 100 Crystals by Ashley Leavy
Another book I love and it is not because I am biased by being a graduate of her program. Ashley Leavy conveys here the vibration of beauty beyond the physical combined with an easy-to-read format and an awesome selection of crystals. This book goes beyond an inventory of crystals, it goes into the subjects of crystal properties and the different modalities of crystal therapy. A most complete sourcebook for anybody wanting to explore this subject but not yet ready to buy every crystal book and encyclopedia out there. Again, get the print copy. There is so much beauty in this book that you'll miss if you get it in electronic format.
A Practical Guide to Vibrational Medicine: Energy Healing and Spiritual Transformation by Richard Gerber, M.D.
A physician had given us a complete guide to all the healing modalities in one place! Homeopathy, acupuncture, color, light, magnetic healing, flower essences, and the multidimensional approach to health. Dr. Gerber discusses what is vibrational medicine, what is illness and what is health. If you are new to this field and you feel the previous books are not serious or pseudoscience, start with this and then go on to the other books he has published on this subject. Thank you, doctor Gerber!
I hope this article helps you to start building your library and these books become part of your favorite crystal and energy medicine books.
The six most important things to raise your vibration and that of your space
Why 6? Is the number of harmony, the cosmic parent, family, and nurturing…so let's get started:
The first one: Is all about the intention
The first and most important step to raise your vibration is intention powered by belief. Be clear about your intention to feel the best you can every day and be eager to see the gifts you will receive. Be excited about receiving but most importantly:
Allow Yourself to Receive!
Believe it and act as it is done. You will start to align yourself to this new state of being until it becomes your natural state of being.
Second: Do not underestimate the power of cleansing
This might seem mundane or probably goes without saying but a good old cleansing does clean in all aspects. It eliminates both physical and energetic baggage and waste. Eliminate clutter, take the trash out, do not accumulate loads of laundry, clean all the surfaces, discard food you know you won't eat (we'll talk about holding to that in the upcoming article series on limiting beliefs) does make your place clean but also open the space for better flow of energy and eliminate stagnation. Cleaning spaces soothes the senses, creates openness, and brings an overall sense of wellness.
Cleansing is another way of honoring your place and honoring yourself. I strongly recommend The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. It works!
Third: Beauty will raise your vibration
Surround yourself with beauty...and let's not take beauty superficially and vainly. There is a deep emotion about witnessing beauty that leaves you speechless and sometimes brings you to tears. It can be brought up by a tune, artwork, the sights of nature, playing with your child, or inner peace. Do not underestimate the power of beauty to bring joy to your everyday life!
Fourth: Music
Is no secret that music and specific tones have healing powers and needless to say your mood and energy change when you listen to the songs you love. It instantly takes you to another place, though sometimes sad or dark, but let’s choose joyful for this purpose. Dancing is an instant lift and makes your body happy. Music is also the language you can communicate with other living beings, such is its power!
Fifth: Scents
Aside from the benefit of enhancing the physical cleaning of your space, you’ll start receiving the aromatherapy benefits and raise the vibration. For a quick pick me up, nothing like citrus scents: orange, grapefruit, lemongrass, and bergamot are my favorites. How about Ylang-Ylang and Jasmine for romance? For a restful sleep, lavender and chamomile. For medicinal purposes, the list is endless!
And the Sixth is...
The placement of high-vibration crystals.
You can start in the areas of high traffic or where you welcome people to your home: entryways, living room, and kitchen. This is not about running to your local metaphysical store and grabbing the biggest geode you can afford nor is taking half the day on a Saturday to grid the house (though that is fun and we can go into that another time)...This is about working with what you have and incorporating it into the space. Take your favorite reds, oranges, and yellows for the areas where you serve food. You can set the intention to harness all the benefits of nourishment and enjoyment of the foods you will serve. All these as they complement your dining table setting.
When it comes to the bedroom, be cautious about which crystals you bring into this space and your intention. I prefer a neutral setting for this space but if you’d like to place crystals, I recommend those with calming and soothing energies to promote relaxation and restful sleep: blue lace agate, mangano calcite and rose quartz. If you are looking for guidance on dreams, amethyst is your crystal.
Citrine and the Feeling of Being on Top of the World!
It all begins with an idea.
Let me start by saying that yellow is not my favorite color nor do I care for yellow gold but when it comes to crystals, there's nothing like the shine and feel of citrine!
The color
Let's indulge in the feelings this master crystal inspires. Starting with the color energy of yellow. Citrine shows a beautiful range of yellow and golden tones from pale yellow over quartz through crystalline champagne. There are also the candy yellow, orangey to the deep gold tone with bronze-like edges. Now think of any of these sitting on a dense piece of quartz in a cluster formation...ahhhh, rich....isn't it? Is exhilarating and intense. Sometimes it feels like being at a jewelry store or maybe looking at it through the glass in a museum exhibit. Can you see the shine and feel it upon your skin? That's exactly what citrine does. Brings out the shine, the confidence, and the feeling of being powerful!
Healing with citrine
Citrine is from the quartz family and, therefore a master healer and a powerful solar plexus crystal. You can benefit from its energy by carrying tumbled pieces in your pockets, in your bag, or as part of a medicine bag. The benefits are also in wearing jewelry like a necklace, bracelets, or earrings. Wear citrine to get a boost of confidence, empowerment, and shine. This crystal will fuel your dreams. It has another awesome property: is "immune" to low-vibration energy Nothing sticks to it!
The healing properties of citrine support both physical and emotional health. As a solar plexus stone, it balances the chakra and supports the organs in that area: stomach, liver, kidney, and bladder. Use in combination with amber to get relief from indigestion and other digestive disorders. In the emotional aspect, the vibration of shine and warmth helps with depression and apathy. Carrying citrine with you is like having your own personal sun and that light shining upon you will get you noticed. Get out of the cave and happily show yourself to the world!
Citrine makes amazing combinations with the other crystals of the quartz family. It exists naturally combined with smokey quartz in smokey citrine and with amethyst in ametrine, a crystal of stunning beauty. This crystal pairs nicely with carnelian, yellow topaz, and aventurine when looking to bring abundance and prosperity. All these can be arranged in a crystal grid to bring confidence and success.
This master healer is a powerful manifesting crystal. It removes blockages, stimulates your imagination, and helps in creating the life you dream of. What are you waiting for?
Why I think Black Tourmaline is the Bomb
It all begins with an idea.
I love black tourmaline. Of all the varieties, this is my favorite! This crystal works hard and never gets tired. Black tourmaline is a cleanser and transducer. It helps with shielding from electromagnetic fields (EMFs). It also transforms negative/low vibration energy. This is why is the best crystal to have in the workplace and areas loaded with electronics. If your occupation deals with visiting or traveling to unfamiliar places, always carry black tourmaline with you.
Transforming your energy and environment
Whether you need to clean your own energy or that of an object, black tourmaline is your go-to crystal. You can transform the low energy around you by carrying tumbled pieces in your pocket, your purse, or any object that is in close contact with your person. An even more fun way to always carry this crystal with you? Jewelry, of course! Bracelets, pendants, and earrings. Always remember the triangle layout: earrings and a pendant/necklace or pendant and bracelets on both hands to maintain balance in the energy meridians. The meridians in these parts of the body are the heart, pericardium, lungs, large intestine, small intestine, and triple warmer.
To clear the energy of an object, hold a piece of black tourmaline in your hand and wave it in a single direction above or around the object. Think of it when you are cleaning a surface, you don’t go back to an already clean area. After you are done, do a “clean check” using a pendulum.
Create a protective grid around your home or areas of interest
The combination of black tourmaline and selenite sticks makes for an awesome energy field around your home. You can create a chain around the inside perimeter and over door frames by combining these two crystals as per the sketch below. Do you want to “spicy it up”? Add amethyst to enhance the high vibration…plus the color combination is beautiful! To protect a place like, say a child’s bedroom, you can apply the same combination of black tourmaline and selenite plus a crystal of soothing and loving energy like rose quartz.
Black tourmaline helps you stay grounded. Place a tumbled stone at the sole of your feet in the earth chakra or wear jewelry in the form of ankle bracelets. Remember, we want to keep in balance all the energy meridians that run through our legs: stomach, spleen, kidney, bladder, gallbladder and liver.
What do I love the most about black tourmaline?
For me, it is the fact they are low maintenance and such hard workers! When I first started to get to know this crystal, I was trying to take care of it but my stones didn’t want anything! No rinse, smudge, “sunbathing”, or none of the traditional methods of cleansing and recharging your crystal. One day I brought home a clear quartz cluster; since then, that’s the only thing they want when they are not working. Just hang out in the comfort and high-vibration energy of the quartz cluster.
Black tourmaline tumbled pieces on a clear quartz cluster
Black tourmaline is very common; you will find good quality stones online or in your local metaphysical store. If your intention is to carry them in your pocket or medicine bag, I recommend getting the tumbled pieces. This crystal is so versatile and affordable, that you can start working with it right away. Try it at home and work and see the transformations that will take place.