By Nomathemba Pearl Dzinotyiwei

Crystals have been cherished for millennia, not only for their beauty but also for their believed metaphysical properties. Each gemstone is thought to resonate with specific energies, aligning with various chakras in the body to promote balance and healing.

I have always been drawn to crystals, starting as a child when I would collect interesting-looking rocks and pebbles of different colours. As an adult I began to work with crystals to enhance my spiritual practice. This includes wearing them in a crystal cage around my neck or wearing crystal bead bracelets or necklaces.

Crystals carry ancient earth energy and work with the body’s electromagnetic field or aura to recharge and balance the energy. This helps with emotional and physical conditions as these often manifest as a result of energy imbalances or blockages.

I find crystals to be very useful as an empath to prevent absorbing other people’s emotions and energy especially when leaving the house. At the beginning of my journey, before I started doing energy work and learned to control my energy, I was often overwhelmed by negative energy from other people, especially in crowded places and I would feel drained and exhausted when I arrived home.

We explore several notable crystals below and their associated benefits:

1. Lava Stone

Known for its grounding qualities, lava stone is believed to provide strength and courage. Often incorporated into chakra bracelets, it is associated with the root chakra, helping to alleviate anxiety and fear by fostering a connection to the earth.

2. Hematite

Hematite is reputed for its grounding and protective properties. It is said to enhance practicality and courage, working with the root chakra to instill a sense of stability and security.

3. Tiger’s Eye

Tiger’s Eye is associated with protection and personal empowerment. It is believed to boost self-confidence, determination, and clarity of vision. This stone, along with other yellow crystals like citrine, is linked to the solar plexus chakra, enhancing one’s ability to take decisive action and attract prosperity.

4. Malachite

Malachite is considered a stone of transformation and manifestation. It is thought to encourage change and self-empowerment. Working with the heart chakra, malachite aims to heal emotional traumas and strengthen one’s resolve.

5. Jade

Jade is traditionally associated with luck, harmony, and prosperity. This green stone resonates with the heart chakra, promoting emotional balance and attracting various forms of abundance.

6. Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is revered for its connection to wisdom and intuition. It is believed to provide clarity and enhance self-expression. This stone works with both the throat and third eye chakras, supporting effective communication and insightful understanding.

7. Sodalite

Sodalite is thought to promote rationality and truth. It encourages honesty with oneself and others, enhancing intuition. Associated with the throat chakra, sodalite aids in improving communication and self-expression.

8. Amethyst

Amethyst is known for its calming and protective qualities. It is believed to relieve stress and assist with overcoming addictions. This purple stone resonates with the crown chakra, facilitating spiritual connection and communication with higher realms.

9. Moonstone

Moonstone is associated with intuition, energy, and passion. It is thought to balance the sacral and third eye chakras, making it beneficial for sensitive and intuitive individuals. Moonstone is also recognized as a birthstone for Cancer and is favorable for those with Scorpio and Pisces placements.

10. Red Goldstone

Red Goldstone is linked to ambition and determination. It is believed to energize and revitalize one’s energy field, calming strong emotions and absorbing negative thoughts. This stone works with the root and solar plexus chakras.

11. Red Coral

Red Coral is associated with increased energy and vitality. It is thought to boost financial success, courage, and leadership qualities, aiding in task completion and protecting against negative influences. Red Coral resonates with the root, sacral, and solar plexus chakras.

Cleansing and Charging Your Crystals

To maintain their energetic properties, it’s essential to cleanse and charge your crystals regularly. Here are some methods:

• Smoke Cleansing: Pass the crystal through the smoke of frankincense or other purifying herbs.

• Anointing: Apply a small amount of frankincense-infused oil to the crystal.

• Salt Burial: Place the crystal in a bowl of coarse salt overnight.

• Sunlight or Moonlight Exposure: Leave the crystal under sunlight or moonlight to recharge.

• Earth Burial: Bury the crystal in the earth for a period to cleanse and recharge it.

Some crystals are sensitive to water or sunlight and may be damaged by these cleansing methods. For example, stones like malachite, selenite, and lapis lazuli should not be cleansed with water. Always research the specific care requirements for each crystal.

You can wear a single strand of crystals or multiple strands. A general rule with bracelets is to wear the crystals on your dominant hand to discharge negative energy and for protection. Good crystals for this are black ones like lava stone or obsidian and tourmaline. To reflect back negativity use hematite. For protection you can use Smokey quartz and amethyst. You can wear Whatever crystals you are drawn to.

You can wear crystals on your non-dominant had to receive positive energy that is aligned to the qualities you need.

I like to make chakra bracelets with a crystal colour aligned to each chakra and filler beads like seashell beads or clear quartz. These are good for wearing daily.

Incorporating crystals into your daily life can be a beautiful way to enhance your well-being and spiritual journey. Always choose stones that resonate with you personally, as your intuition is a powerful guide in selecting the energies you need.

For more insights and guidance on crystal healing, you can connect with Nomathemba on Twitter: @NomaDzino.

Please note that the information provided here is based on traditional beliefs about crystals and is not intended as medical advice.