Perhaps this should not be surprising as we ourselves have crystalline bodies and this is one reason why crystals have become a natural tool for healing purposes. It is known from ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs on emerald slabs that they were used for therapeutic & cosmetic purposes. Various tribes around the world still use minerals and crystals for magic, ceremony and healing. However they are used, they are powerful tools and need to be respected. As they are tools, they can be used for negative as well as positive reasons and therefore cleansing and dedicating a newly found crystal is one of the first priorities we need to attend to, so that a crystal  “from this point on, is only used for the highest good of all”.

The negative potential of crystals has caused some religious belief systems to assume that anyone connected with Crystal Healing must be a practitioner of the Dark Arts! Nothing could be further from the truth. However it is always wise to go to a properly trained Crystal Healer to be sure of a safe and caring healing experience. As crystals are tools they are only as good and as pure as the practitioner who is using them. Your intent is what most influences your experience with a crystal.

Science knows that crystals such as Quartz, Corundum (Ruby, Sapphire), Tourmaline, Diamond etc absorb, store and transmit energy that passes through them. This in modern times has been used with great effect in industry, in items such as computers and watches, in medicine and surgery and now in Space programs. Although Quartz, in particular, is grown artificially within a few days, (for industrial purposes), it is interesting that when it is needed for programs in a space rocket, only natural Quartz will do, as its greater precision in storing and transmitting signals is vital in outer space. It makes you respect crystals even more when you think those special abilities have taken millions of years to evolve and grow

Diamond

The Crystal Kingdom has developed into a huge variety of form and colour. According to those who have learnt to use and love them, each crystal group has been found to have its own variety of healing and spiritual uses. You will find, as you read various books on the subject, the same crystal may appear to have different qualities, depending on which book you read! This is not to be fretted over, as understanding the qualities of crystals is like looking at a gemstone and that, while it is the same gemstone, each person cannot help but look at it in a different way, through its different facets, thus receiving different facets of the same truth. Secondly, each individual will resonate in a unique way with each piece of crystal and therefore each of us will react in a unique way to it. For this reason it is very important we also learn to use and trust our intuition when choosing the ‘right’ crystal for a particular reason. Just because the book you are looking at doesn’t recommend your crystal for that particular purpose, doesn’t mean you have picked the ‘wrong’ crystal. Many of us have learnt that crystals choose you! This is due to intuition and personal energy resonance – the two vibrations of your crystal and your self, vibrating in harmony, an entrainment of comfortable knowing.

Quartz Agate

Here are two examples of crystals chosen for a very different purpose from what you might expect, according to common accepted beliefs. Rose Quartz is traditionally and widely accepted as a crystal for emotional balance. As a Crystal Healer I was surprised, one day, to be Spiritually Guided to use it to cleanse the negative effects of chemotherapy. This was specific to one patient’s needs and may not be appropriate for everyone in this situation. Another example was in the use of Ruby. I have a gentleman I have seen as a client for many years and he suffers with S.A.D. each winter. We have found that Ruby, placed around his head, on the pillow, affects these depleted energies, and uplifts his mood considerably. Ruby is traditionally a crystal for the lower body, especially as a grounding crystal.

So, you may begin to see, crystals can be used in a variety of ways for Spiritual and healing purposes. From Spiritual Development, healing and energy balancing, to psychic awareness and protection; also for strengthening the mind, the energies of the body and the emotions, not to mention the Spirit. They also have a place in balancing and cleansing the energies of the home, the garden, your pets and in the work-place.

Crystals also come in every conceivable size, shape, polish and colour variation. Some people will only work with natural untouched crystals as they want to be sure they are in their original, natural shape, such as clusters, single crystals and ‘massive’ forms (slabs or chunks of crystal – mainly quartz types – made of microcrystalline crystals). Others may only wish to work with smoothed forms such as tumbestones, spheres, freeforms and eggs. This area of polished crystals opens up a whole new realm of appreciation if you are a visual type. Unless a crystal is of a  high grade, it can be difficult to see inside it, at the beautiful formations that Nature creates as it grows. These wisps, ‘stars’, angel and fairy ‘wings’, rainbows and ‘landscapes’ are a stunning vision in themselves and surely add to the love one develops for the Crystal Kingdom. You do not have to be in the New Age scene to recognise how very beautiful this can be. There are many who collect crystals for the pure pleasure of what Nature can produc

Inside Quartz Crystal

Polished crystals also open up opportunities to use crystal in sacred geometric forms and precision healing tools such as wands and massage pieces. Quartz Platonic Solids, famously defined by Plato over 2000 years ago, can be useful for advanced healing and balancing techniques. They consist of the 5 principle geometric shapes found in Nature. Other polished forms that are more easily available are the four sided pyramid, the prism, the round-ended wand, the sphere and the egg.

Several forms of complementary therapies are adopting simple crystal healing techniques as part of their practise, as therapists train in these different fields. For instance, massage therapies, Reflexology, Acupressure, Spiritual and Reiki Healing are all beginning to embrace the use of crystals directly on the body. A wider variety of therapists use crystals to enhance and cleanse the energy of their therapy rooms and others adopt the use of crystals for Feng Shui reasons. Also many now wear crystal jewellery to enhance the Aura in various ways.

To develop a passion for crystals is to develop a passion for life! It’s a bit of an addiction actually and never fails to fascinate. It doesn’t have to be expensive but your collection can range from a humble tumble to a majestic Madonna. As a Crystal Healer I prefer to collect and use high grade pieces as I prefer their vibration. However there is no right or wrong – if you use your intuition sensibly and lovingly. When we bring crystals into our lives, we invite their transformative qualities to work at the very core of our being. In time this brings inner strength, comfort and healing. They are such simple and beautiful tools and yet have the capability of creating great internal shifts, which can go on to reflect in your outer life, with the potential of lifting you out of old patterns of behaviour and other states of dis-ease. Not only do their crystalline energies affect us, but also their ability to carry Light and colour, which greatly enhances their fabulous vibrational qualities for healing and transformation.

Jane Butterworth SRN, MICCH, MNFSH, ABNLP, ABHyp

is a practising Spiritual, Crystal & Sound Healer & Teacher, NLP & Hypnotherapist and Spiritual Channel. She lives near the SurreySussex border near Haslemere and also does Readings in Guildford.

For further information, contact

janebutterworth@aol.com or Tel: 01428 658833

http://neverbe-ltd.com/butterworth/index.html

The Pendragon Guide to Crystals is available £7.95 post free: A simple but complete channelled guide to the spiritual qualities of over 150 crystals, carefully collected over the past 17 years. A4 format.

It is hard to specify when crystals first appeared on the earth plane, but they were known to serve many purposes centuries ago. In the past, the people of Tibet used turquoise as it was said to be the stairway between heaven and earth. Going back in time, the Mayan Indians of ancient Mexico believed that quartz crystals helped cure and diagnose many illnesses. Even around 2000B.C, the people of Egypt used various crystals as the ultimate medical cure for the sick. They were also known to wear lapis lazuli as a headdress to ward off evil spirits. Malachite was transformed into powder form to aid better eyesight. Queen Amina of Zaria (Northern Nigeria) built a home made of amethyst back in the 16^th Century to aid protection of her most treasured possessions. In many cultures in ancient India, the moonstone was seem as one of the most sacred stones linked to romance. It is because of this, that the moonstone is still associated with love today as one of its main traits.

In the past, a variety of stones were also used for meditation on the 7 chakra centres of the body in Ancient India. In fact, this form of meditation is said to have originated back in 400 years BC were crystals would be placed on each chakra centre for several purposes, but especially to generate an overall sense of wellbeing. These methods have continued to be a popular choice for many even today.

With so many crystals to choose from, you could find yourself buying every dazzling stone in the shops which catches the eye. I have to admit, when I first drew close to crystals 7 years ago I found myself gathering a rather large collection, to later find that I only used a handful. By gaining more understanding of their healing properties, I can now understand why I was drawn to the ones I liked to use. So today I tend to only use a few, depending on how I am feeling on that particular day. The key is to think of what you need to guide you through the day, and place the crystal(s) in your pocket, or wear it like a piece of jewellery. Once you have established this, anytime you think you need some assistance throughout the day, just hold it in you hand to bond with the stone. This alone gives a sense of connection that will act as your spiritual buffer when needed.

If you wish to take your use of crystals to a whole new dimension, imagine that they are a transmitter that can provide you with overall healing to satisfy your present state of mind, when in need of some TLC. I tend to use amethyst when I have a heavy workload, or when I go into multitask mode. This glorious gem can be the ultimate stress buster as it gives my energy a boost when feeling exhausted. It was once associated as ‘The Stone of St Valentine’ as he was said to have worn amethyst as he linked it to love.

Malachite is renowned as the protector and cleanser, so it’s a great stone to use in the workplace. It can be placed near desks or on the computer to ease off migraines. It can also ward off against pollution and harmful rays such as bad lighting. Malachite can also be a good stone to wear when travelling by air because of its cleansing benefits, as our bodies tend to feel the need to recoup, due to the changes in gravity. I like to carry it in my pocket, as it helps to recharge my immune system- especially during my menstrual cycle.

Red jasper was a regular favourite for the people of Native America, who believed thatit was the stone of the earth. It was seen as sacred as it was believed to ward off negativity- Mark Antony wore it as a ring. It is believed that he marked each letter he sent to Cleopatra as a symbol of protection to her with the stone. I like to combine red jasper with hematite when exercising in the gym. Red jasper is also known for increasing energy whilst hematite is known for its grounding properties. With the two combined, I personally find it a stimulating combination whilst venturing on my fitness routine.

Another favourite of mine is brecciated jasper, which I carry with me when I need some guidance for emotional stability. This is particularly so when life is not going according to plan. For me it is very much a soothing and relaxing stone that I have become quite drawn and accustomed to.

My final choice has got to be black agate, which I feel I have connected to on a higher vibration. I tend to wear it as a ring, because for some reason I find that it works more effectively that way for me. Since I became attuned to the gemstone 4 years ago, I rarely can part with it, as I have developed a deep connection with it. By wearing it to work, I find that it gets me through the day. With its extensive healing qualities it is also known to aid concentration and courage, as well as promoting good will. One of the main things I like about black agate is its calming affects when I am overloaded with work, or other things that life throws at me. The stone is a member of a variety of gems from as the nature family (green agate and blue lace agate). This might explain why I am so drawn to it, as I have such passion for lush greenery.

For many of us life can be like a ping pong ball, where one minute we feel like we can take on the world as we are filled with so much joy and happiness. Then on the flip side, everything seems to be going downhill. However, I feel that I have found a vice through using crystals. They have given me strength in a similar way as a true friend, as they are always there when I need them.

Article by Tracey Celestin

As time went on I trained in Aromatherapy and Reflexology and became a practicing Complementary therapist. Eventually I got the chance to train properly in crystal healing, gaining a diploma qualification.

I have now reached the grand age of forty and I can honestly say my life has changed immeasurably for the better due to my utilising crystals in my life. I now tutor crystal courses myself and am in a privileged position to share my knowledge with others.

Crystals have always been used since ancient times as a link to God or spiritual wisdom, as well as for their healing properties. The Jewish high priests, which began with Aaron, brother of Moses, wore a breastplate containing semi-precious stones. Behind this were the ummin and thummin, a black stone and a white stone which were used by the priest to obtain directly the word of God. The ancient Egyptians also were known to use crystals such as topaz and tormaline for their healing properties.

I will try to explain how crystals work.

It has been long known and recognised by scientists that crystals have a “charge”. They have been used in technology for this very property for years, such as in computers, watches and televisions. In fact, we would not have technology without the use of crystals and their energetic properties. Nowadays natural crystals have been mostly replaced with the silicon chip, a man-made crystal.

We also have an electrical charge since we are basically liquid crystal. Our teeth, bone, blood and tissues are all formed from minerals, some forming solid structures, and some dissolved in liquid. All living (and ‘non-living’) things vibrate to certain frequencies. We’re taught at school that atoms are in constant motion, so this idea is not alien to us. When an individual is out of balance the crystals’ pure vibration will change their vibration, and bring the imbalance closer to harmony. Just having crystals around will help change the body’s energetic field in a positive way. This is a mild form of the well documented scientific phenomena called the Piezio Electric Effect: the effect that makes watches and computer screens work.

The Piezio Electric Effect means if you apply mechanical pressure, such as squeezing, to a quartz crystal it generates its own electricity. Quartz crystals store, amplify and emit energy at a regular rate depending on how it is cut.

The crystal healing therapist will facilitate changes in the body’s energy field by intuitively choosing the stones that resonate best with the individual. The stones are activated and utilised by using thought energy and feeling energy, or simply put, with intent and love. We know that thought is energy because it travels in waves, and can be scientifically measured. We often know how people are feeling because we sense their ‘vibe’ which is the feeling energy they are emitting.

Crystals make great ornaments and are beautiful to look at but they can do so much more. It is important if you have them around the house or wear jewellery with gemstones or crystals in that you cleanse them regularly. Crystals store energy, so if you have had a stressful day, that ‘stress’ energy will be absorbed by any stones in the vicinity. Technically speaking this can be amplified and then emitted, therefore creating more disharmonious energy around you. It is good to remember that what you put in is what you get out, that is why it is important to cleanse crystals.

CRYSTAL HEALING THERAPY – There are a few different ways to cleanse crystals. The easiest method is to run the stone under a cold tap for a minute or two. Immersing in a salt water solution is another way. This is fine for quartz but be careful with other stones as some may go dull or discoloured. Passing through incense is another way to cleanse your crystals.

I have found that if you look after your crystals then they will look after you. There have been times in my life where I’ve felt alone and unsupported and have been amazed at how I have gained inspiration from the crystals themselves. One day I was feeling particularly low, while walking round my house every crystal I looked at or picked up showed me a little rainbow within it. Even stones that were very dark or I didn’t realise had a rainbow in showed me one. This was the perfect pick-me-up and I felt like the crystals were communicating a spiritual message of hope as symbolised by the rainbows.

If you like crystals or feel drawn to them and have lots around your house it means you probably have an affinity with them. I always encourage people who are interested to extend their knowledge if they can. We need all the healers and healing we can get in this day and age. It’s a tough world to live in sometimes and the gentle supportive energies of crystals can be a strong antidote to that. When choosing the right crystal for yourself go for what feels right rather than what looks good. If you’re old and battered like me you might need a crystal that’s a bit rough round the edges. It will still work if it has a few chips and flaws. We all need to learn that despite our imperfections we are beautiful, just like the little crystals.

By: Lizzie Halbert

lizzyhalbert@googlemail.com

www.soothingscents.co.uk