Crystals & Gemstones: Exploring Healing Properties & Beliefs

Practitioners and followers of alternative medicine believe that certain crystals and gemstones have healing properties. Crystals and gems are used in a variety of ways and are seen as promoting healing, increasing energy and inducing feelings of well-being. There are many varieties of crystals and semi or precious gems that are said to possess different healing properties. Western medicine does not generally support the idea of crystal healing and according to Altmed.com, sees the practice as "producing a placebo effect."

Quartz Crystals

• Quartz crystals are one of the most well-known crystals used in healing. Quartz crystals can range in shade from clear to smoky to a rose color. They are said to directly affect the energy field of the user or wearer by refocusing the body's energy into a positive force. Quartz crystals are used to make the user feel calm.

Amethyst

• Amethyst is a member of the quartz family that is also widely-used in crystal healing. It is a purple crystal and is used to induce feelings of calm and to also cure insomnia when placed near the bed. It is also used to absorb negative energy.

How to Use Crystals

• Crystals are often used as pendants or other forms of body adornment. They can also be placed in a room, both at home and at work. Alternatively, crystals are placed directly on any areas of the body that are in need of healing. Some people also use them in prayer.