Are you ready to set out on your crystal healing journey? Whether you’re a complete novice or haven’t dabbled in much more than a Rose Quartz, we’re here to help.
From understanding the basics of crystal types and their unique properties to learning how to cleanse, charge, and care for your crystals, we’re here as your trusty companion on your journey toward a more balanced and harmonious life.
This handy beginner's guide will arm beginners with all the insight they need to know about the power of these beautiful and transformative stones. You’ll learn about the science behind stones, their history, and how they can be used to balance well-being and unleash their inner potential.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways
Healing crystals have been used for centuries to bring balance, promote physical and emotional well-being, and enhance spiritual growth.
The best crystals for beginners are rose quartz, black tourmaline, and clear quartz.
You must cleanser and charge your crystals before each use, otherwise you risk inviting bad energy into your life!
Why Use Healing Crystals?
In a fast-paced world filled with endless distractions, many seek a path to balance, peace, and a deeper connection with their inner selves. Healing crystals can help you achieve this.
Crystals that possess healing properties have been used and respected by societies around the world throughout history. For example, the ancient Egyptians loved crystals and would use lapis lazuli, carnelian, and clear quartz in their jewellery.
Crystals are believed to be powerful tools for:
Promoting physical health
Blocks negative energy
Keeps a positive flow of energy
Kick starts your wellness journey
Enhancing emotional well-being
Inspiring spiritual growth
Developing a connection with nature
Ancient practices and modern uses
There is evidence of ancient cultures utilizing healing stones in ways that resonate with the practices of modern crystal healing enthusiasts. For example, the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese cultures have all utilized the healing abilities of crystals in various ways.
Today, we follow their lead. We still make use of these stones to promote health, protection, and spiritual growth.
The science behind crystals
The scientific world is uncertain about how effective healing crystals can be. However, studies have indicated that crystals generate strong vibrations which may affect our energy field. The quartz stone, in particular, has been shown to store vibrations. This is similar to how tape recordings hold sound waves as vibrations.
Despite inconclusive scientific research backing up these treatments, we believe wholeheartedly in the power of crystals, as do many others. People who have tried crystal work affirm their benefits, specifically with regard to cleansing bad energy and negative forces encountered during their lives.
On one hand, inconclusive scientific evidence is just that— inconclusive. However, the placebo effect is real, and if you believe these crystals will work, then they will.
How To Chose Your First Crystals
Beginning your crystal healing journey is a matter of choosing the perfect stones. The beauty of starting your crystal journey is that there is so much diversity. No matter your need, there’s a crystal to help you!
Step 1: What are you hoping to achieve?
The first step in starting your crystal journey is to consider what you’re hoping to achieve. Are you hoping to reduce stress and anxiety, manifest money, or develop self-love? Each crystal, with its unique energy and vibration, aligns with specific intentions and desires.
So, if you're looking to find tranquility and reduce stress, amethyst is soothing and relaxing, while black tourmaline absorbs negativity around you. To manifest financial well-being, you may benefit from citrine and green aventurine. Or, for self-love, try rose quartz.
The beauty of your crystal journey is that it’s so personal to you. You may not even be sure what you’re looking for, until the right crystal calls out to you!
Step 2: Find a crystal shop
The next step is to find a crystal shop that you like. Google ‘crystal shops near me’ to find your local crystal shop. You could also try ‘spiritual shops near me’ or ‘wellbeing shops near me’. They should list whether they stock crystals or not on the site.
You’ll find that different crystal shops carry a different vibe, so don’t be put off if a crystal shop makes you feel uneasy or uncomfortable— it may just not be the right one for you! The feeling of the shop is as much a part of your crustal journey as anything else, so don’t be afraid to try a few to find the right fit.
Step 3: Trusting your intuition
Relying on intuition plays an essential role when picking your first stones. The first thing you’ll need is an open and trusting attitude. From here, you can move on to one of our 3 tried and tested methods:
1. Eyes wide shut
When walking around the crystal shop, keep an eye out for a crystal that takes your fancy. Do you like the look, the colour, the feel? For whatever reason you like it, visual appeal can help you pick your crystal.
From this, we recommend you hold the crystal in cupped hands and close your eyes. If you feel yourself swaying slightly or feel off balance, this crystal is the one for you! If you don’t feel anything. It's okay to put it aside and continue your search. Trust in the process, and you'll know when you've found the crystal that aligns with your energy.
Remember that the energy of a crystal should make you feel more centered and balanced, not necessarily unbalanced or uncomfortable. So, when you hold a crystal and experience a subtle shift in your energy, it's often a sign that the crystal is harmonizing with your own energy, and it may be just what you need at that moment.
Pro tip: Don’t be disheartened if you go to a shop and you don’t feel like any of the crystals speak to you. This can be a sign in itself! Come back another day and try again.
2. Touch and feel
Another method is to wander around the shop and run your hands gently over the crystals. Watch our for ‘please don’t touch’ signs! The tactile experience can be a powerful way to connect with a crystal's energy.
As you glide your fingers across their surfaces, notice which crystal sparks a sensation, a subtle tingle, or a feeling of warmth in your fingertips. These physical reactions can be signals from your body, indicating a resonance with a particular crystal's energy.
Listen to your intuition to pick crystals that are best suited for you and that resonate with your energy. For instance, you might find yourself irresistibly drawn towards the amethyst quartz. This purple crystal is known for its calming powers as well as its ability to bring balance. By following your instincts when selecting stones, you can discover those special minerals that perfectly match your needs!
3. Pendulum
The pendulum method is a little more advanced but is a great way to help you pick your next crystal. To use this method, find a calm and peaceful spot where you won't be disturbed. Try the corner of the shop. This will help you tune into your own energy and the energy of the crystals.
Select a pendulum that you feel a connection with or one that resonates with you visually. It could be a crystal pendulum or any weighted object suspended by a string or chain. For example, an engagement or wedding ring on a chain.
Hold the pendulum in your hand and set a clear intention by stating what you seek in a crystal. It could be something like, "I am seeking a crystal that aligns with my intention for inner peace and balance."
Determine the movements of the pendulum that signify 'yes,' 'no,' and 'maybe.' For many, a back-and-forth swing might mean 'yes,' a side-to-side motion 'no,' and a circular motion 'maybe.' However, these signals can vary from person to person, so trust your intuition to interpret the pendulum's response.
From this, you can start your selection process!
Step 4: Cleanse your crystals
You can more about crystal cleansing below. However, this step is really important to ensure that the crystal you've chosen is free from any external energies or imprints that might have accumulated during its journey to you.
By cleansing your crystal, you're giving it a fresh start, making it a blank canvas to absorb your intentions and energy.
Step 5: Take it slow
You don’t need a collection of 100 crystals within the first week of your journey. Similarly, if you’re in to crystal jewellery, you don’t need to wear every piece you own. Using too many crystals at once can actually dilute their energies and make it challenging to connect with their individual vibrations.
Less can be more when working with crystals, allowing you to focus your intentions and fully harness the power of each stone.
Top 10 Beginner-Friendly Crystals
If you’re new to the healing crystal world, there are certain crystals that make great starter pieces. But, different crystals have different properties and bring different energies into your life. We’ve listed our favourites for you below.
Check out our list of the top 10 best crystals for beginners.
Rose Quartz
Appearance: Appears in a range of pink colours.
Chemical Structure: SiO2 with titanium, iron, or manganese impurities. The concentration of impurities is what gives rose quartz its distinctive rose hue. More impurities will mean a deeper pink colour.
Also known as: The heart stone
Rose Quartz is the stone of love. Liked to the heart chakra, it promotes feelings of self-love, romantic love, and compassion. This gentle pink stone has been cherished for centuries for its ability to open and heal the heart.
If you're on a journey of self-discovery and self-compassion, Rose Quartz is your gentle guide, reminding you to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. It's a reminder that you are deserving of love and that your own love is the wellspring from which all other forms of love flow.
It’s a great crystal for beginners because its energy is so inviting, comforting, and won’t overwhelm you with vibrations.
Clear Quartz
Appearance: Clear and glass-like
Chemical Structure: SiO2
Also known as: The master healer
Known as the master healer, Crystal Quartz has long been recognised for its remarkable ability to heal, purify, and amplify energy. This crystal possesses the power to dispel negativity and restore harmony in the mind, body, and spirit. It's a versatile gem that's highly valued in the world of crystal healing for its exceptional qualities.
Crystal Quartz is like a blank canvas. That means you can charge it to amplify any feeling or intention. Think of Crystal Quartz as a magnifying glass for your intentions, helping you manifest your desires and intentions with clarity and precision.
Pro tip: Clear Quartz is especially beneficial when combined with Black Tourmaline to enhance its protective abilities. However, Clear Quartz can also amplify the properties of Rose Quartz, Amethyst, and Selenite.
Black Tourmaline
Appearance: A deep black and opaque crystal with a prismatic texture. Glass-like.
Chemical Structure: (NaCa)(LiMgFe2+Fe3,Mn2)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OHF)4
Also known as: The stone of protection
A must have in your crystal collection, Black Tourmaline is one of our favouites. It’s ability to absorb negative vibes while while providing a shield of protection is truly outstanding. This captivating black gem is like a guardian, standing sentinel at the gates of your energy field, ensuring that only positivity and harmony are allowed to pass.
In a world filled with various energies and influences, Black Tourmaline acts as a potent barrier against psychic attacks, negative emotions, and harmful energies from the environment. It's like a protective cloak, helping to keep your energy field secure and unharmed.
Fun story: The first time I ever held Black Tourmaline, I was using the ‘eyes wide shut’ crystal selection method. I was in a terrible job, a terrible relationship, and was just all around miserable. The crystal had such a profound effect on my balance, I almost fell into the display! Since then it’s been one of my absolute favourite crystals.
Citrine
Appearance: Varies in tone from yellow to brownish-red
Chemical Structure: SiO2 with Fe impurities
Also known as: The stone of peace
Citrine is all about the money! Known as the stone of wealth and success, Citrine is a great stone for bringing abundance and financial well-being into your life. This sunny gem, with its warm, golden hues, has long been associated with good fortune and the attraction of financial prosperity.
Citrine is like a beacon, guiding you toward opportunities for growth and financial success. It stimulates your personal power, motivation, creativity, encouraging you to reach for your goals with enthusiasm and confidence.
Selenite
Appearance: White, translucent, textured
Chemical Structure: CaSO4·2H2O
Also known as: The ultimate cleanser
Selenite is a handy crystal to have in your collection because it cleanses everything it touches. Also known as "the ultimate cleanser," Selenite possesses the remarkable ability to purify and charge other crystals, objects, and even your own energy field. It's like a breath of fresh air in the crystal world, refreshing and rejuvenating everything it encounters.
This beautiful, translucent crystal is like a gentle yet powerful force for clearing away stagnant or negative energies. Whether you want to cleanse your crystals after use, rid your home of unwanted vibrations, or rejuvenate your own aura, Selenite is your go-to tool.
Try using a selenite bowl to cleanse your crystals, or even balance your other crystals on top of your selenite to unlock it’s cleansing ability.
Fluorite
Appearance: A range of colours from green to purple to blue depending on impurities
Chemical Structure: CaF2
Also known as: Genius stone
Fluorite is the multicolored magician of the crystal world. This gorgeous gem looks like a kaleidoscope and is a great starter crystal due to its multitude of uses.
This crystal is a master of organization, focus, and mental clarity. Fluorite helps clear mental fog and promotes order in your thoughts, making it easier to prioritize and make decisions with clarity.
What’s more, Fluorite is a potent energy cleanser. It has the ability to detoxify your energy field, ridding it of unwanted influences and negativity. This crystal is like a breath of fresh air for your spirit, helping you release emotional baggage and bring a sense of calm and serenity.
Hematite
Appearance: Black-silver and lustrous
Chemical Structure: Fe2O3
Also known as: Bloodstone
Hematite has grown in popularity in recent years for its ability to ability to ground and center individuals in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. Often referred to as the "stone of the mind," Hematite acts as an anchor for your thoughts, emotions, and energy, helping you find stability and balance in an increasingly chaotic environment.
Hematite's grounding energy connects you with the Earth's stable foundation, making it an excellent choice for those who feel disconnected from the physical world or struggle with daydreaming.
It’s also a very aesthetic gemstone. It has a silvery-black, almost ‘oil spill’ kind of appearance makes for beautiful rings and looks stunning in the home. However, it is very fragile, so be careful!
Carnelian
Appearance: Ranges in colour from red-orange to yellow
Chemical Structure: SiO2 with Fe2O3 impurities
Also known as: Artist's Stone
Carnelian is a great choice for those new to crystals who are looking to spice up with life. With its vibrant orange and red hues, this crystal radiates passion, strong and positive energy, and the zest for life. It provides a boost of confidence and inspires you to take bold actions.
Carnelian is said to make you more attractive, too! Not only in physical appearance but in the way you carry yourself. Those around you can sense its magnetic energy and will be drawn to your aura.
Pro tip: Try pairing rose quartz with carnelian for the ultimate self-love combo.
Lapis Lazuli
Appearance: Dark blue with gold veining
Chemical Structure: (Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(S,SO4,Cl)1-2
Also known as: Heaven stone
Lapis Lazuli is a beautiful, dark blue gemstone used for centuries for its association with higher knowledge, self-awareness, and spiritual enlightenment. It was especially popular with the ancient Egyptians who revered it not only for its stunning appearance but also for its profound metaphysical properties.
Lapis Lazuli is connected to the throat chakra and the third eye chakra, acting as a bridge between clear communication and inner insight. It's like a key that unlocks the door to express your deepest truths and spiritual wisdom. This crystal's positive energies encourage you to find your voice, speak your truth, and tap into your inner guidance.
Amethyst
Appearance: Varies in tone from a light lavender to a deep purple crystal
Chemical Structure: SiO2 with Fe3+ impurities
Also known as: The stone of peace
Amethyst is an incredibly calming stone, known for its ability to bring inner peace. This beautiful purple stone has a soothing and harmonizing energy, making it a popular choice in the world of crystal healing.
The Amethyst crystal also aids in stress reduction and emotional balance. It's a sanctuary for the mind, relieving anxiety and promoting mental clarity. This crystal's soothing presence encourages you to let go of negativity, making room for inner peace and relaxation.
Cleansing and Charging Your Crystals
Keeping your crystals energetically charged and free of negative energy is essential for enhancing their energetic healing properties. You should regularly cleanse your crystals to banish any bad vibes or nasty energies they may have picked up. We recommend cleansing your crystals at least once a month for best results.
We’ve included the best methods to cleanse and charge your crystals below.
Methods for cleansing
Running water
Cleansing your crystals with running water is one of the simplest and most effective methods. It harnesses the purifying power to wash away bad energy.
You can wash your crystals in a stream, river, or even under a cold water tap! Simply hold the crystal under the water and count to 30.
Pro tip: Don’t hold any stone that ends in -ite underwater! The chemical structure of these stones will degrade in water. For example, selenite, moldavite, malachite, fluorite.
Using selenite
Selentie is a universal cleanser and one of the easiest ways to cleanse a crystal. Simply purchase a selenite bowl and stack your crystals in this bowl overnight to remove negative energy from your stones.
With a sage smudge stick
Cleansing with a sage smudge stick involves using the purifying smoke of white sage to remove stagnant or negative energies from your crystals. Simply light the smudge stick, pass the crystal through the smoke for around a minute, and it will be cleansed.
Methods for charging
In the sun
This method draws upon the energy of the sun, a potent source of light and vitality. Simply place your crystals on a windowsill or outside where they can be bathed in the sun’s light. Leave them for a few hours, and they’ll be charged with the energy of the sun. Simple!
In the moonlight
Charging under the moon is similar to changing in the sun. However, it is best to charge your crystals under a full moon for maximum impact. Again, place your crystals on a windowsill where they can see the moonlight and leave your crystals to change as you sleep.
With your intentions
To charge a crystal with your intentions, hold the cleansed crystal in your hands, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Focus your mind on your intention, clearly defining what you want to achieve or the energy you want the crystal to carry.
In a clear and confident voice, speak your intention aloud. State it in the present tense as if it's happening now. For example, "I am confident and successful in my new job," or "I am filled with love and positivity."
After this, your crystal will be charged with good intentions.
Caring for Your Crystals
You need to take good care of your crystals so they can continue to support you in your crystal healing journey. To protect them from harm, store the crystals securely and wrap them up in a fabric or soft pouch when not being used.
It may sound silly, but if you drop them- apologise to them! It’s a symbolic gesture of respect and acknowledgment of their role in your journey. It's a way to maintain a positive and loving relationship with your crystals.
The Bottom Line On Crystal Healing
By understanding the diverse properties and uses of various healing stones, trusting your intuition, and building your own collection, you can start your very own crystal healing journey. You can incorporate crystals into your daily life with jewellery or meditation.
Crystals are not just beautiful adornments or geological curiosities; they are profound sources of energy, wisdom, and transformation. Each crystal holds its unique story and power, waiting for you to tap into its potential. Whether you're seeking balance, serenity, energy, or insight, there's a crystal that can assist you on your path.
So, begin your crystal healing journey with an open heart, curiosity, and the belief that within these beautiful and transformative stones, you will find the balance, harmony, and healing properties you seek. Your crystals are ready to guide you on this amazing journey of self-discovery, transformation, and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What crystals do you need as a beginner?
We recommend starting off with rose quartz, clear quartz, and black tourmaline. These stones form a powerful trio that will help you build confidence, banish bad vibes, and manifest your dream life.
How do you start off with crystals?
Beginning your exploration of crystals is easy. Simply take one in hand and allow yourself to feel a bond with it. You can also keep them close by wearing crystal jewelry or placing some around the home. In order to maintain their energetic purity, cleansing crystals regularly is essential as well.
How do I know what crystal to wear?
If you’re looking for some help selecting the best crystal to wear, then let your intuition be your guide. Look for a stone that captures your attention and holds it.
How do I cleanse and charge my crystals?
To cleanse crystals, you can rinse them with water, burn sage around them, or use selenite. To charge your crystals, leave them in sunlight, moonlight, or speak good intentions into them. These are all fast and cost-effective ways to cleanse your crystals.