I still remember the first crystal I bought for a specific intention. I had just started a new business and wanted a stone to support it. A friend took me to a crystal shop in Chinatown, and after having my Chinese birth chart reviewed, it was determined that I needed a bit more metal for balance. I chose a citrine pendant, as in the Chinese system, metal is represented by the colors white, silver, grey, and gold. Over the next couple of years, I added a few more pieces to my collection, but this was before I dove deeply into the study of crystal energy.
Fast forward about 12 years to a rather unfortunate episode at an airport that involved nerves run amok, me in an ambulance, and my suitcase on its way to what would have been my destination. The paramedic diagnosed a severe anxiety attack, and that became the catalyst for my subsequent crystal studies.
Now, years later, I consult, teach, and provide treatments to individuals who are interested in working with crystals and subtle energy. I find one of the most often asked questions is, “Where do I start?” My answer is almost always to start with an intention. What is it you’re looking for, looking to accomplish, or feel is lacking in your life at the moment? If you aren’t sure or are unclear, start with a general stone, such as clear quartz, that will cover all of the bases.
There are always several stones to address any particular issue or goal, just as there are several herbs that can be used for a particular remedy. The trick, if you want to call it that, is to find the stone or stones that are the best fit for you. While there are stones that are more general in their scope, such as clear quartz, I find that choosing stones is similar to choosing clothes. Everyone has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and there is not a one- stone-fits-all (with a few exceptions like the aforementioned clear quartz, rose quartz, black tourmaline, and a few others).
I tell my clients to trust their instincts when choosing stones. If you’re attracted to a stone, get it, work with it, and then research a bit about it. You will likely find that it is exactly what you needed.
My clients also want to know what to do with their stones. Here, it also depends on your goal, but you have many options on where to place and how to use your stones, including:
- In your pocket
- On your desk
- In your bra
- Under your pillow
- In your wallet
- On your night table
- In your bath (first make sure the stone is not toxic and won’t be damaged by water)
- Worn as jewelry
- In your lap while you sit
- Placed on your chakras while lying down
- In your palms (palms stones are any stone shaped to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand)
- Near or on you during meditation (can also be in your palms)
- Create an altar with the stones, plants or flowers, a candle, and photos, drawings or hand-written notes pertaining to your quest.
The point is to be exposed to the energy of the crystal you’re working with in a setting it’s meant to support. For instance, if the goal is success with your business, you might want to put it on your desk or carry it in your bag. If you’re a chef, it might be best in the kitchen. If the purpose is to help you sleep better, you would want it near your bed or under your pillow.
I have crystals throughout my home, placed with intention. Knowing what stones go where is very useful. For instance, since quartz is an amplifier of energy, I do not put it near my electronics, and this goes for all of the quartz family (rose quartz, citrine, smoky quartz, amethyst, etc.). Similarly, I would not put high energy stones like carnelian or citrine near my bed, unless it wasn’t sleep I was looking for. If that’s the case, may I recommend rhodochrosite, fire agate, or spessartine garnet?
While you can start with and focus solely on one stone, often a combination is even more successful. I think of it similarly to cooking. When I create a set of stones for an intention, it is very much like creating a recipe. Certain stone complement each other, while others lend a bit of spice to the mix or soften a particular intensity.
No matter if you start with one stone or several, I recommend working with just one at a time for several days. I call this the “getting to know you” period. And, when I say working with, what I mean is have only that stone near you during that time. Sleep with it. Carry it in a pocket or bag, if possible. If you meditate, do so with your stone close to you.
Whether you’re working with more than one stone or with a set of stones, allow yourself the “getting to know you period” with each stone, before working with them together. And notice that I do not say “using them.” This is a rather important point. If you approach the stones with an attitude of cooperation, you will receive cooperation. I realize this might require a mind reset, and that’s okay.
While the goal is to communicate your intentions to the stone, take note that this is not a one-way street. Think of it as if it were any other conversation you might be having. If you do all the talking, you’re not really having a conversation.
If you pay attention, you will get a response. It might take the form of dreams. It may be a general feeling. Sometimes it’s very specific. Whatever it is, the point is to notice it. What you are working with is subtle energy, with an emphasis on subtle. Tuning into that requires a certain stilling of the less-than-subtle energies around and within you.
In our current pandemic climate, it seems the most immediate needs are for stress reduction and prosperity. For stones to address stress related issues I recommend any of the following:
- Lepidolite
- Mangano calcite
- Howlite
- Selenite
- Black Tourmaline
- Polychrome jasper
- Kunzite
For stones to encourage prosperity or abundance I recommend any of the following:
- Pyrite
- Chrysanthemum stone
- Jadeite
- Emerald
- Citrine
- Sunstone
- Rutilated Quartz
- Amber
- Tiger’s Eye
There has never been a more vital time for setting intentions and seeking healing, rest, and inspiration. Crystals can be an integral part of this solution. Whether you use them for yourself, your business, or to support your clients, when used properly and with purpose, the benefits will soon become crystal clear.
