Just starting out with crystals? Here are 5 essential crystals for beginners
Crystals are more than just pretty stones. Sure, we love a sparkly Amethyst as much as the next person, but we also believe in its magic. (Not gonna lie, my amethyst gets tucked under my pillow every single night.)
Crystals go way, way back to ancient times. Ancient Egyptians wore lapis lazuli, emerald and clear quartz as jewelry, and ground galena and malachite into powder for eyeshadow. In Ancient Greece, people wore a variety of crystals for protection, including hematite, which was associated with Aries, the Greek god of war. Ancient Greeks would rub hematite all over their bodies before battle, believing it would make them invincible.
Today, crystals and stones continue to be used for healing, protection and influencing energy. They are used in spiritual ceremonies, worn as jewelry, and placed practically everywhere you can imagine—room corners, window sills, office desks, pockets, purses, and on the body—in efforts to amplify and direct energy for health, love, protection, strength, tranquility and prosperity.
So what’s all the fuss about? Crystals hold vibrations that resonate with the energies in our own bodies. They attract and filter energy, so are perfect tools to harmonize, strengthen or clear energies that no longer serve us. And while these magnificent stones work for each individual in their ow unique way, certain types of crystals are well known for specific properties and benefits.
Read on for the 5 powerful crystals to keep around you for all-around good vibes!
Clear Quartz
Known as “The Master Healer,” there’s a reason Clear Quartz is considered one of the most powerful of all stones. As a do-it-all crystal, Clear Quartz enhances the energy of other crystals, and amplifies energy by absorbing, storing, releasing, and regulating it. It's truly a versatile stone that can be used alone or in conjunction with other crystals.
Clear Quartz has been used since ancient times to calm and balance the mind and spirit as well as harmonize all the chakras. This is a crystal that’s not only great for taking with you everywhere, it can also be used for regular meditation to provide clarity and focus the mind.
Selenite
Just as Clear Quartz helps amplify the energy of other crystals, Selenite is a powerful stone for clearing and cleansing energy blockages—both from our being and from other crystals. This powerful crystal, with its name derived from the Greek goddess Selene, the goddess of the moon, has been described as “liquid light,” as its intensely high vibrations encourage energy to flow like liquid. Selenite is remarkably effective for uplifting and rejuvenating the spirit, and is considered an essential tool for healing and energy work.
How to use a Selenite wand: Charge your Selenite under the light of the full moon, then use it to subsequently charge other crystals. Just place your crystals on top of or around the Selenite wand to distribute the energy and clear blockages.
Amethyst
Everybody’s favorite stone! Offering purification and protection, Amethyst is considered one of the most powerful protection stones. It is a cleansing and healing crystal that also promotes ultra relaxing, chill vibes. Amethyst has been used for centuries to calm and soothe the mind and spirit, enhance intuition and even ward against nightmares and insomnia. Just place Amethyst in the bedroom, or tucked under your pillow (as I do), to help ward off bad dreams. Because this beautiful purple stone offers incredible soothing properties, it is also a great crystal to use for a deep meditation session.
Fun fact: the Ancient Greeks used Amethyst for protection against drunkenness—indeed, the name Amethyst comes from the Greek word Amethystos and means “not intoxicated.” Pass the wine, please!
Rose Quartz
For those looking to strengthen their connection with others and themselves, Rose Quartz is the perfect crystal. As the stone of “universal love,” Rose Quartz is the sweet and touchy-feely crystal that opens up the Heart Chakra, promoting feelings of love in all of its forms: compassion, empathy, self-love, friendship, and of course, romantic love.
This soft pink stone is the crystal for love, as it encourages you to open yourself to new love and friendships. Rose Quartz is also a go-to for healing emotional wounds and deepening connections—including the connection you have with yourself. Carry Rose Quartz with you, or use in meditation, to incite feelings of love, empathy and compassion.
Citrine
Seeking more abundance in your life? Then you’ll want to get your hands on Citrine, or “The Merchant’s Stone.” A must-have crystal for intention setting, Citrine is perfect for anyone embarking on a new pursuit (entrepreneurs and investors, looking at you). This powerful stone for manifestation helps you attract all kinds of success, whether it's financial wealth and prosperity, or success in achieving one's goals.
Citrine carries the energy and power of the sun, which is reflected in its brilliant yellow and orange coloring. It’s a crystal for joy and all-around positive feelings—with its warm, bright and comforting energy, how could it not be? We also love Citrine for clearing the mind, awakening creativity and imagination, and promoting self-confidence.
Looking for even more crystals? Make sure you stop by our Crystals section to find other crystals for intention setting, protection, healing and more.
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Note: Crystals are not intended to substitute the advice given by a licensed healthcare professional. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease.
