Different Types of Gemstones and Crystals: Energetic Properties and Uses

In our upcoming posts, you will get to know each particular variety of crystal better in order to learn how each one can be utilized.

Alexandrite

Alexandrite is a variety of Chrysoberyl. One of the most remarkable characteristics of this stone is its ability to change colors. Alexandrite may appear in different hues of red, green, yellow, or violet, depending on how the light shines upon it.

The Magical Powers of Alexandrite

What it helps with:

• Good Luck
• Self-confidence

How it can help you:
Alexandrite is known to bring good fortune to its bearer. With the help of your alexandrite, loving and joyful energies are drawn to you. Surrounded by positive energies, you become a magnet to good luck.

This stone also banishes negative thoughts. It inspires you to see your strengths, so that you do not dwell upon your insecurities. When you have the proper amount of respect for yourself, you are more likely to command the respect of others.

Cleansing Recommendation
Alexandrite can be damaged by salt. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s heat may also affect the stone’s quality. Use cleansing methods that do not require the use of a salt bed, or too much sunlight. If you leave it out in the sun, make sure you do not leave it out for too long. Placing it in very cold places can do as much damage as too much heat, so do not leave it out in the rain. When washing it in rivers or fresh water, do not leave it underwater too long, as it might get too cold while submerged in the water.

Amber

Amber is formed by the fossilization of tree resin, which means that it takes several years to form. Because of its origin, amber sometimes contains tiny organisms, bugs, traces of plants and leaves that became trapped inside during its formation. Amber can be found in many different colors, but is usually a yellowish-orange or yellowish-brown color. It can also be blue or green, but this is very rare.

The Magical Powers of Amber

What it helps with:

• Healing
• Happiness

How it can help you:
Amber is often used for healing, and for aiding in a speedy recovery. It helps absorb negative energies that can cause or aggravate ailments. It takes away thoughts and emotions that can burden you, and make you feel trapped or helpless. When the stone absorbs these energies, its quality visibly changes,  in that the stone becomes cloudier than normal. This is why it is very important to cleanse it immediately after use.

Amber transforms negative energies into positive energies, showering you with positive emotions. As it lifts off burdensome thoughts and emotions, it allows happiness and healing to come into you. Anything that is preventing positive energies from flowing into you is removed by amber. This is why you feel lighter after working with its powers.

In addition to removing energies that cause you to feel bad or slow down your recovery, it also helps you to maintain a positive mental state. When you are in a positive state of mind, your healing process takes less time. Amber does not only heal you, it also unlocks your own healing energies.

Cleansing Recommendation
You can allow your amber to bathe under the sun in order to cleanse and recharge it. However, do not let it sit in direct sunlight for too long. While the energy from the sun helps to recharge your amber, too much of it may also cause your stone to be brittle. If you let it sit out to catch some sun, only leave it there for few minutes. Its surface is also easily scratched, so avoid placing it on rough surfaces, and take extra care if you choose to cleanse the stone on a bed of salt. Cleansing amber in gentler ways is recommended in order to preserve its quality.

 Amethyst

Amethyst is a type of quartz crystal, and can be used in many of the ways that
quartz is used. Its crystals are distinguished by their beautiful purple color.

The Magical Powers of Amethyst

What it helps with:

• Healing
• Focus and concentration
• Sleep

How it can help you:
Amethyst is a very powerful healing stone. Whether your ailment is physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual in nature, amethyst can be an important element in the healing process. It aids significantly in calming and soothing your mind, so that stressful thoughts and negative emotions do not aggravate your physical state. As a result, your natural healing powers are able to flow more freely, and your personal energy is fully channeled into the healing process.

Because of its power to calm your mind and body, amethyst can also be used to aid you in any practice or activity that requires concentration. It is a very useful stone to have during meditation, or when you want to perform a healing technique on another person. Because it helps you to focus, your ability to direct or channel your energies is strengthened, making you work more effectively on the task at hand. Amethyst can also be used for any other activities that require concentration, such as studying, memorizing, planning, or writing. The quality of your meditation is also greatly improved by amethyst, as it helps in clearing your mind. With a clearer mind, you can more easily reach a deeper state of meditation.

Sometimes, you may find it hard to get a good night’s sleep, because your mind is bombarded by thoughts. Amethyst, with its power to calm and soothe you, can aid in putting you to sleep.

When amethyst heals, it helps in taking away negativity. In the same manner, it can be used to “heal” your other stones of negative and unwanted energy. A cluster of amethyst can work in the same way as a cluster of quartz crystals.

Cleansing Recommendation
Amethyst should not be cleansed using sunlight, as sunlight can cause the stone to fade and become weak.