How do Crystals Work?

With thousands of years of evolution, something so enduring right from the Earth, crystals can add so much meaning into our daily lives. They hold the Earth’s history inside of them. Quartz even makes up 20% of the Earth’s crust and 12% of the land surface.

They were born from the ancient rumblings and rattlings of our beautiful Earth. Grown from molten rock deep within the Earth, crystals and minerals are formed when the molten rock gradually cools and forms orderly, geometric patterns.

I love this description by Yulia Van Doren:

Beneath our feet lie unimaginable quantities and varieties of crystals and minerals within the earth. Above our heads sparkle the mineral clusters we call stars. Out buildings are crafted from minerals and crystals. Our cars, computers and phones work only because they contain a multitude of minerals and crystals that literally power them. Crystal technology isn’t just some woo woo, New-age concept, it is one of the essential building blocks of our modern technological age.

As we know from scientists, all life moves to a vibration- each and every atom is in constant motion. What makes crystals unique is that their crystalline structure is perfect- their atoms are completely symmetrical. It’s their regular and repeated pattern that makes crystals a powerful holder and transmitter of energy and vibration.

In comparison, the human make-up is a far messier atomic arrangement. So, our atoms are harmonized when interacting with the unique symmetry of crystals!

Where do the Meanings Come from?

Ancient Times

Ancient Civilizations across time have long used crystals for medicinal purposes, as protective talismans (a lucky charm) and worn as beautiful jewelry. These meanings have been passed-down over time, evolving into what you see now when you look up a crystals properties.

Roman soldiers wore Citrine on their breast plate, to protect them in war. Ancient Greeks drank from Amethyst-decorated goblets as a talisman against over-indulgence. Ancient Egyptians wore jewelry made from Lapis-lazuli for protection and health. Many cultures believed quartz was eternal ice sent down from the heavens. I could go on and on…

Colour & Energy Centers

Colour also plays a role in the different meanings of crystals. Science has proven how the colour that surrounds us can effect us physically and emotionally. Just think of how different you feel in a bright red (energized and passionate) room versus a pastel blue room (calm and tranquil). In addition, I find it helpful to look up which chakra is attributed to which crystal. The 7 chakras are each associated with a different colour so it allows you to delve deeper into the meaning.

Present Day

These days, in Western Culture, the meaning of crystals can be more interpretive. Whichever stone you connect with, based on its looks, how it feels or an intuition is right for you. When you choose a crystal for a specific intention, Rose Quartz for love, for example- it transforms your crystal into your personal talisman.

How to Use Healing Crystals

Crystals are not going to change your life on their own, nor are they going to heal physical ailments on their own.

I look at them as (the most beautiful) tools in accountability. Their presence gives you a nudge, it’s a tireless reminder of the life you’re ready to step into. They help you to work on yourself in a deeper way. But ultimately, you are your own healer.

All you need to get started is a sense of curiosity and open-mindedness when bringing crystals into your life!

How to Choose a Crystal

More often than not, the crystal that you are visually drawn to is the one that is right for you. It can really be as simple as that. Don’t resist the ease and allow yourself to be guided by your heart.

Maybe there is something in particular that you want to bring to fruition such as wealth or love. Then, you can of course also choose a crystal based on its associated meaning. Here are the meanings of some popular crystals:

Rose Quartz: is a stone of unconditional love that purifies and opens the heart at all levels – love for oneself, family, friends, the Earth and the Universe.
Citrine: evokes vibrancy, happiness and abundance in all forms. Carrying the power of the sun, it is also warming and energizing.
Amethyst: is one of the most spiritual stones, aiding in meditation and helping to still thoughts. It brings peace to the brain, enhances memory and aids in decision making.
Quartz: is the most powerful healing stone. It brings the body into balance by its unique ability to take on the energy of any situation.

How to set an Intention

Once you have chosen a crystal it’s now time to decide and declare the intention you want to set.

What do you want to create in your life? What are you working on? Is there something you are struggling with? Ask yourself these hard questions so that they can guide you to an intention you wish to fulfill.

When you declare an intention you are letting yourself and the Universe know exactly what you want. Having this clear purpose gives you something to stay in the present moment and helps to avoid negative thought patterns.

What you believe about yourself and your life on a deep subconscious level is what you live out daily through your actions, words, choices and habits. It’s also what you attract and manifest more of. Be mindful of the power of your beliefs and their power over your life

Lalah Delia

When you decide (and I mean really decide) you are going to change an aspect of your life so that it better aligns with your goals and aspirations- the law of attraction comes into play. Your beliefs begin to shift, then your thoughts and, in turn, your actions. The intention you have set acts like a magnet and will begin to attract what will make them come true. Want to learn more about intention setting? I’ve made a free, in-depth guide you can download here.

Different Ways to Use Crystals

wear your crystals
carry them in your pocket or purse
meditate with them
put crystals in your home
place them under your pillow at night
keep them at your desk or another special place

A Subtle form of Holistic Healing

Having a lack of expectation is key. Set an intention with your crystal- but then don’t obsess or over-analyze it.

When I saw a crystal, the color shifted me. Then, as I started to learn to meditate, I would hold a crystal because I felt like I could get grounded by holding rocks. The more I integrated them in and didn’t expect anything out of it, [my relationship with crystals] developed.

Heather Askinosie, co founder of Energy Muse, from Well + Good Interview

I read that using crystals in holistic healing is similar to the subtle effects of taking a vitamin. You don’t notice a change right away. But then, all of a sudden, after taking them daily, you realize something has shifted. This is often the way crystal healing works- it’s subtle yet deep.

My favourite part about crystals are they just feel comforting and grounding. They hold the history of the Earth, and, holding and wearing them connect us to that - If that’s not cool I don’t know what is!

The unique ‘make up’ of crystals, their history with both the earth and ancient civilizations, and their representation as a talisman make crystals one of the most beautiful, meaningful tools you can add to your daily life!

There is really no right or wrong way to use crystals. Their true magic is that they can support you in becoming the clearest, most inspired and grounded version of yourself! If you have any other questions please reach out to us at info@thebeautifulnomad.com.