Crystal Shapes
Crystal Health Disclaimer
⚠️ There is no clinical or medical proof that crystals help with physical, psychological, or emotional issues. There is also no scientific evidence for any metaphysical claims about crystals. Please do not ignore professional advice or symptoms. Crystals should only be used alongside your current treatments. The information on Larinas Labyrinth is not medical or expert advice.
What Shape Crystal should I buy?
The shape of your crystal will reflect your intention to use it—it might be purely for ornamental purposes. However, if you are into the metaphysical attributes, each crystal has a purpose and function, On this page, we offer names, descriptions, and suggestions for using each of the shapes to maximise the intention. Scroll down for more information.
Ankh
The Ankh is an ancient Egyptian symbol that people often wore as an amulet for spiritual protection and healing. It is also linked to ideas of rebirth and transformation and attributes to support ease of transition. The Ankh stands for balance and reminds us that life is an eternal, cyclical force, and that each person holds the key to their own spiritual renewal. When we buy crystal ankhs or pendants with crystals, we use the Ankh’s power and combine it with the qualities of the chosen crystal. For example, lapis is known for its protective properties. Crystal Ankhs do not form naturally, and are carved from larger rocks.
Asterism (Star)
An Asterism Star (4 or 6 rays) can be seen when the crystal is held to the light. It is believed to bring forth universal light for intergration with the light of the innerself. This process of ‘enlightenment’ is one that aligns with Divine Will and a desire to speak and act in accordance with the ‘highest good’ and the ‘collective consciousness’. It occurs in rubies, sapphires, garnet, diopside, and spinel when a cabochon is cut from a suitable stone. Star Topaz will have 8 rays, and Star Diopside 4 rays. Garnets may also display a star with either four or six rays.
Barnacle
Barnacle crystals are quartz crystals in which a larger crystal is covered with many smaller crystals. This type of crystal cannot be fabricated. Their healing attributes include social and family relationships, fostered by increased self-awareness. The formation is one in which the large, singular crystal is believed to act as a teacher to the smaller ones, who are in the process of ‘gathering wisdom’ that is shared with the group to promote peace and harmony (including work or business activities). The Barnacle crystal is also believed to comfort those in mourning and is recommended for placement in healing or health care environments. Physically, barnacle crystals are ‘master healers’, and the clear quartz barnacle will act as an amplifier and provide immune support and overall well-being.
Bridge
Bridge crystals have a secondary crystal that grows partly within and partly outside the primary crystal. Use them to access higher realms or to connect with others for healing. Remember, clear quartz amplifies your energetic state. If you are peaceful, it amplifies peace; if you are agitated, it amplifies agitation. Clear your energy before using it for spiritual work.
Balls
Crystal balls are commonly associated with psychics and scrying; however, they are multipurpose. They make a wonderful addition to any home, and when used as an ornament, they will emit ambient energy. While the Clear Quartz Crystal ball is the most popular type for scrying, other types of translucent or transparent spheres such as citrine can also be suitable for scrying - especially when the ball has ‘planes’ within it. Caution should be taken with your clear quartz (including spheres) as they act as amplifiers, including when placed in the environment, and they do not discern the energy that they amplify. For example, when placed in the living area of a family home with lots of tension and arguments typical of sibling interactions, it may escalate the tensions. Your clear crystal ball is best put away unless you're using it for specific work. Smaller balls (spheres) can be used for healing and other metaphysical work.
Bowls
Typically, crystal bowls and plates are carved from a larger piece of a rock, such as quartz. However, crystal bowls can be manufactured by processing and may include crystal sound tuning bowls. Crystal bowls and plates can range in size, and carvings serve multiple purposes. they can emit ambient energy when placed in the environment, and, depending on the material, they can be used to clear and charge other smaller crystals. Clearing and charging crystal bowls are naturally formed, and selenite is a popular choice for this purpose.
Bracelets
Crystal bracelets can be made in several ways. Some use stones that are set, like cabochons, while others use tumbled stones in mesh or, most commonly, beads. Beaded bracelets are usually more affordable and help use up smaller pieces of the original crystal. Both beaded and stone-chip bracelets are popular choices for those who want to benefit from the crystal’s healing energy. When made from crystals with protective properties, these bracelets can also serve as amulets. Many people who work with energy wear protective bracelets on both wrists to help keep their energy balanced during treatments. The common belief is that the non-writing hand receives energy, while the writing hand sends it out. For example, a right-handed person might say, 'in through the left and out through the right.' This practice is based on the idea that energetic boundaries can be affected during sessions (see 'auras and energy sharing'). The left hand is thought to draw in energy from others, while the bracelet on the right hand helps prevent others from picking up your personal energy, as opposed to universal or divine energy.
Cabochon
A cabochon is a crystal that has been carved to be flat on the back and is curved or moulded on one side. They are used by jewellers and designed to be set in settings such as rings and pendants. Cabochons are an easy way to experience the ambient metaphysical energies of your crystal. They may require extra care to keep in peak condition, and depending on the crystal, it may be easy to scratch or damage. Not all cabochons are suitable for bracelets, and even if they have been ‘set’ in a metal setting, cabochons may not be suitable for cleaning in an ultrasonic cleaner. You will need to understand the crystal properties of your cabochon.
Cartouche
A cartouche was an Egyptian jewellery item that had hieroglyphics carved into it. They symbolise divine protection, power, and eternal life. The hieroglyphs were also designed to provide information and knowledge. The protective aspect is very personal - and encircles the person completely. They make good protective amulets and talismans. The ones we see on the market are carved copies, and once again, it's important that when you buy a cartouche, the crystal it's made from supports protection, information, and wisdom-seeking attributes. You could consider holding a cartouche while meditating to access information about your Divine plan or past life.
Carvings
Not all crystals are strong enough or suitable for carving; however, many are carved into ornamental or religious (or other) shapes. Generally speaking, a carved crystal will carry the inherent metaphysical properties of the stone carved as well as the symbolic properties of the shape. For instance, an animal carving symbolically carries the animal's properties and wisdom, as well as those of the stone. Ideally, a carving should complement the stone's natural metaphysical properties. For instance, carvings of fairies and angels should be made from stones that reflect rainbows, OR if angels possess properties that connect them to the higher realms. Fairies - the properties to connect to Mother Earth or the elementals. Protective talismans and amulets should be made from crystals that possess protective properties, such as Lapis or many Black or brown crystals. Often, we see symbolic crystals that are carved from crystals that are contradictory to the symbolism - for instance, a woman attempting to increase fertility and pregnancy will use an amulet made of rose quartz or carnelian. A male with libido issues or fertility problems would use tiger iron, or carnelian, or one of the red crystals, but not rose quartz. To summarise, crystal carvings should be made from crystals that complement the carving's symbolism.
Cave
Geodes are naturally occurring hollow rocks, often called 'crystal caves'. Within the hollow of the rock, there is a crystal lining. They commonly contain clear quartz, amethyst, celestite, and agates (to name a few). Collectors and mineral enthusiasts enjoy geodes for their formations and colours, usually as specimens or for ornamental value. Crystal lovers, enjoy them for their inherent healing attributes, ambient energy, and other healing properties specific to the crystal type within the geode. Geodes are believed to carry the same vibrational healing properties as the raw crystal, emitting a stronger and more grounding healing energy, encouraging energy flow, offering internal healing, and cleansing and purifying. Crystal enthusiasts may use amethyst geodes to cleanse other crystals.
Cluster
The crystal cluster is a group of numerous crystals that form and grow together on a shared base (the matrix). They have many points that radiate outwards, and they can include different types of crystals that do not interfere with the natural growth process of the other crystals. They grow in an open space that does not interfere with the cluster's natural formation and supports the growth of the individual points. Each point is well-formed with clearly defined faces and edges. The crystals will have a symmetry typical of their specific mineral type. Crystal collectors enjoy their structures and are popular as specimens with collectors. Crystal enthusiasts believe the clusters radiate energy outwards, particularly related to the mineral attributes. Each point of the cluster is said to hold an individual power and energy; the larger the cluster, the more intensity radiates from it. Energetically, they are popular within the metaphysical industry because they are said to encourage unity and act as an energiser within their environment.
Cross
Crosses can be either naturally formed or created from other crystals and minerals. Naturally formed crosses are recognisable because of the ‘cruciform’ shape. Crosses such as Staurolite and chiastolite have a balanced natural form of a lighter and darker mineral, and should not be removed from their natural configuration to maintain this energetic balance. The cross symbolises the elements (earth, water, air, fire) and the seasons: spring, summer, autumn, winter. Inherently, it is a reminder that life is a cycle of births and rebirths. Most naturally formed crosses come in white or brown, earthy shades and are believed to link a person to both the higher and earth realms (Mother Nature) and to the inherent metaphysical properties of the earth, such as activating the Kundalini chakra. Gold and silver are both minerals, and when manufactured into a cross, they carry the properties of the ‘cruciform’ (balance, integration, wholeness and unity with the higher and lower selves, and connection to the Divine/Creator). For Christians, the cross also represents a connection to “Jesus”, rebirth and resurrection, and even Surrender to Divine Will. In more recent years, metal crosses have often had coloured gemstones added to enhance their chakra-balancing properties. Other ‘manufactured crosses’ can include crosses carved from solid rock/crystals, and these will carry the same properties of the cruciform, with the additional empowerment of the crystal used in the creation of the crucifix. Cruciforms, or crosses, are popular among light workers and energy healers and can be worn or placed in the environment to energise it.
Crystal 'in the Rough'
A crystal in the rough is a naturally formed crystal that remains attached to the host rock on which it has grown. They are usually found as specimens and sold as'crystals in the rough,' and are popular with mineral collectors for their unique form. Often these crystals are 'gem quality' and removed from the host, and made into gemstones for jewellery collections. Many crystal enthusiasts and metaphysicians believe they emit a stronger, purer energy than polished, refined crystals, because the polished and refined crystals are exposed to multiple energies before they reach you, including the handling by the person who found the crystal, the receiver, the carver, the wholesaler, the jeweller, the dispatcher, and so forth. A crystal in the rough is believed to sustain the ‘earth connection’ better than a polished crystal. Depending on the size of the crystal, you might use it as an ornament or as a holder when meditating. If you're manifesting business and financial opportunities, you could place your crystal in the rough in your work environment or study. Other ways to use the crystal in the rough are to place it in the area best suited to its inherent healing qualities, or beside your bed, to extend healing to you while you sleep.
Cubes
Crystal cubes can be natural or carved. The ones that form naturally tend to grow upon a host rock, such as this image of a pyrite cube on a matrix. Perfectly formed squares are not common, but not rare. For metaphysicians and energy workers, the cube reflects underlying messages of sacred geometry (harmony and balance). Other times, it represents stability and order, and building strong foundations, especially within the material world. A naturally forming cube is a perfect complement for manifestation work (depending on the crystal type). Crystals with manifestation attributes, such as Tigers Eye, will strengthen the cube's manifestation power. Other attributes of the cube include wholeness and completion, the provision of security and a sense of safety, and connections to the seasons and cycles of life, making it a recommended crystal for overcoming feelings of grief or loss or for those desiring a ‘rebirth’. Manufactured cubes tend to be tumbled and polished, with ‘rough edges’ smoothed over. They are created from larger rocks (potentially left over from other rock carvings), and may or may not be perfect squares. The ‘Tumbled’ cubes are perfect for ambient healing and as part of healing grids, and are commonly found in chakra balancing sets.
Dendritic
Dendritic crystals form naturally with ‘dendrites’, which look a little like branches, moss or ferns. This form of crystal cannot be manufactured. Dendritic crystals will inherit the properties of the rock they form in, as well as other attributes specific to the dendrites, which can include life path and revelations, and, depending on the format of the dendrites, may even be beneficial for transformation and change, especially behavioural. Reshaping beliefs, attitudes and thoughts of limitation to expansive belief systems is another attribute.
Double Terminated Points
Double-terminated points are naturally forming points that are naturally pointed at both ends. They are believed to transfer energy from both ends of the crystal, enhancing the flow of healing energy. An example of a double-terminated crystal point is the Herkimer Diamond. They are popular with metaphysicians as part of Crystal Healing treatments and for gridding.
Druzy
A druzy is a naturally occurring phenomenon in which tiny crystals form and appear as a sparkling layer on the surface of a larger rock or mineral. They are densely packed and give a shimmering or sparkling effect.. They commonly occur on quartz and agates. They are often used in jewellery but are also desirable for those who wish to place them in the environment to experience the ambient metaphysical attributes.
Earrings
Crystal earrings can act as a balancer when worn on both sides of the head. They will carry the properties of the crystal they are made from. Balance includes balancing the left and right hemispheres, as well as potentially balancing the thought processing and impulse control between the frontal lobe and the brain stem.
Eggs
Crystal eggs are popular both for ornamental value and for metaphysical value. They are carved from a bigger rock and come in a variety of sizes. While many believe that the shape reflects fertility, others believe that it is only if the egg is carved from a crystal that carries the attributes of fertility, (such as Rose Quartz) that it will promote creativity, pregnancy and procreation. The smaller sizes are currently popular for women, marketed as 'yoni eggs' as part of repairing muscles after childbirth, or to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles where there is a weakness.
Elestial
Elestial crystals are naturally formed crystals that have etchings as well as an overgrowth of crystals over the body and face of the etched or layered crystal. These types of crystals can’t be fabricated. They are believed to activate access to the higher realms and link the conscious self with the Higher Self and universal consciousness. This includes activating the psychic gifts for divine communication and channelling wisdom for the purposes of harmony and enlightenment. It is believed to work very quickly or at ‘hyperspeed’.
Etched
Etched crystals are naturally formed crystals that have abrasions on the outer part of the crystal that sometimes appear as a type of hieroglyphic. When worn as a talisman or used as part of a meditative practice, they are believed to act as messengers for action on boundaries (and for having healthy ones), and to raise awareness to remove self-imposed limitations, and to transform negative inner scripts.
Faceted Crystals
A facet on a stone is a flat, polished surface that acts as a mirror, reflecting light. The term faceted refers to multiple facets on a stone, and most people think of gemstones such as diamonds, which are generally have multiple facets which create the glittery and sparkling effects. However, faceted stones don’t have to be gems or crystals, although crystal chandeliers and cut glass often throw reflective rainbows. Often, for marketing purposes, gemstones and mineral specimens such as labradorite (which has ‘flash’) are faceted to display their colour more effectively. Rainbows are associated with the Angelic or Fairy Kingdoms.
Family Cluster Crystals
Family clusters are clusters of crystals in which one crystal is much larger than the others and surrounded by smaller ones of varying sizes. Typically, people are attracted to family clusters that reflect the number of family members, with smaller points of varying sizes surrounding the larger one, symbolising their children or spouse. Energetically, it is believed that a family cluster will support harmony within the home and the family unity when placed in the shared environment.
Freeform Crystals
Freeform crystals have been polished and carved to enhance their striking visual effects. They usually have a cut base so they can stand easily as ornaments, and, metaphysically, they emit ambient energy into the environment specific to their associated properties. They are often a good way to make the most of smaller crystals that have broken away from a larger one (such as large quartz crystals, whose points have been damaged. The broken, unpointed end can be polished and cut for ornamental value. Other times, a larger rock may be broken during the unearthing or sourcing process, and polishing to a freeform shape maximises the use of the crystal. Other times, the free form can be made from leftover material from a larger carved item, such as points, towers, generators, and so forth.
Gateway Crystals
A gateway crystal is a natural crystal with a portal on one face that leads to its interior. It is quite rare and usually found in crystals such as clear quartz, citrine, amethyst, fluorite, and calcite. It is believed to act as a portal to the ‘higher realms’, uniting the aspects of self (Higher self with lower self) and providing a connection to guides and guardians for information about past lives, the present life, the divine plan, potential obstacles and challenges. Also believed to activate access to the Akashic Records and to purify and stabilise the aura and chakra systems.
Generators
Crystal generators have a distinctive geometric shape, with a flat base and pointed six-faceted tip. The sides are not always carved, and the tip is believed to concentrate and amplify energy. They are usually made from quartz but are also carved from other minerals. They make beautiful ornaments and are popular for their metaphysical attributes and ambient energies. Energy workers and metaphysicians use them for healing, gridding, or meditation. In grid and healing work, energy is believed to enter through the base and out through the point directly to the area requiring an energy 'boost'.
Key Crystals
A key crystal is a crystal with a six-sided indentation on one face that extends toward the interior, narrowing toward the centre. The key is associated with naturally formed crystals only and is believed to activate your self-awareness, enabling you to recognise who, where, and how you are giving your power away, keeping you locked in unhealthy cycles and relationships. Ideally, you would meditate with the crystal with the intention of receiving revelations and insight into where you need to strengthen your boundaries and how to liberate yourself. This can include oppressive work situations. You could also wear a key crystal as a pendant (or carry it on your person), as a talisman to remind you of your worth, and to navigate the blocks on the pathway.
Obelisk
The obelisk typically has four equal sides that taper upwards to the point, which is generally four-sided. It is carved to a flat base and is ideal for standing (stable form). Depending on its size, it can also be used for meditation or as part of a healing grid. It can be used as an ornament and will emit ambient energy associated with its inherent crystal attributes.
Octahedron
Octahedrons are naturally forming crystals that look like two four-sided pyramids joined together. They are not common, but neither are they uncommon. You tend to find more fluorite octahedrons on the market. Metaphysically, they are believed to possess the ability to create harmony and balance. They help with acceptance and release of resistance. They also raise a person's vibration to a level where the higher and lower selves can be integrated, and spiritual energy can be grounded. They are said to act as a bridge to higher realms and to the fairy or Earth Kingdom. This connection helps you understand at a heart level the meaning of 'as above/so below.' The type of crystal they are made from adds further metaphysical meaning. You can wear them as a talisman or meditate with them for specific purposes.
Palm Stone Crystals
Any stone can be used as a 'palm stone' if it comfortably fits into the centre of your hand. However, those marketed as palm stones tend to be polished smoothly, oval-shaped, or round to increase the holder's comfort. When used for meditation, it is believed that holding it in the non-writing hand increases energetic receptivity. They are most commonly used as tools for meditation and crystal healing energy. While they can be used as 'worry' stones, they differ from a worry stone because of their shape and size.
Pendants
Pendants are an excellent way to experience the healing properties of any crystal at any time. Particularly as protective talismans. Other times, if you have an emotional, behavioural or physical disorder, you can wear them as part of receiving ambient healing energy. It is best to wear pendants that retain their form and have not been drilled, such as a full-point pendant or a tumbled stone, wrapped or set. This allows the energy to remain uninterrupted, especially at the points. As a pendant, you can use either a single or double terminated point with the point pointing downwards. The open end is the end that draws in universal healing energy, and the point is the direction from which the energy is emitted. If you are wearing a double-terminated point as a pendant, it will emit energy in both directions from the points. If you are using pendants, it's a good practice to take them off at the end of each day and ‘clear and charge them’ for the next day to maximise their benefits.
Pendulums
The pendulum is a divination tool that can be used in multiple ways, from helping a person connect with their guides and guardians as a communication tool to locating lost items and even for water divination. There are many pendulums on the market, and some are designed to be chakra balancers (healing tools) that can be held over a person's chakra to help unblock stagnant energy or speed up the chakra's vibration. The type of pendulum you buy will be determined by how you intend to use it. Whatever type of crystal pendulum you buy, you will need to attune it to its intended purpose.
Phantoms
A phantom crystal is a quartz crystal with an inclusion that reveals a former growth stage or developmental period, creating a form of ‘ghosting’. The phantom is the ‘ghost-like inclusion’ and can be different colours depending on which minerals have mixed with the quartz during development. Green phantoms tend to include chlorite, and red phantoms have iron inclusions that have settled on the surface of the inner crystal before it has resumed growing. Phantoms can also occur in the crystals of amethyst, citrine and sometimes diamonds. Metaphysically, they are believed to promote healing through personal growth, development, and evolution and are recommended for healing blockages and promoting recovery from conditions such as trauma and abuse during the past or childhood.
Pyramids
Pyramids are carved from larger rocks and tend to be more popular with crystal enthusiasts, metaphysicians, and crystal healers. The shape is believed to energise the natural crystal attributes because of its associations with 'sacred geometry,' enhancing any healing activities. When using or working with a pyramid, the energy collects at the apex (top point) and is channelled down and through the base, when 'channelling universal energy downwards'. To release energy to the Universe, the pyramid is turned upside down, so that the energy goes through the point from the person, and then back to the Universe. When working with the pyramid, you should hold it in your non-writing (or non-dominant hand). Pyramids are believed to enhance energy and create a vortex because of the geometry of their shape.
Rainbows in Crystals
Rainbows in crystals carry additional meaning to the healing properties of the crystal, especially when they are naturally occurring. For example, they often naturally occur and are often found in the Quartz crystals - clear, smoky, citrine and Rose to name a few. They hold value for metaphysical healers who believe that they offer additional healing to each of the seven primary chakras. Other attributes include intuition and divine communication, with reference to the ‘rainbow bridge’ that connects a person to the angelic realm and the earth Kingdom (also known as the Fairy Kingdom). Rainbows carry a happy, joyous energy and are uplifting, believed to offer transformational healing of any wounds and assist in breaking through obstacles and blockages to growth, balance, and love. Artificial rainbows occur when a crystal or stone is treated with bonding metals such as titanium and gold. where vivid rainbows are produced on the surface - examples of artificial rainbows include Angel Aura Quartz, Opal Quartz and Aqua Aura Quartz. Rainbow crystals (artificial or naturally occurring) are suitable for meditation to raise your vibration and connect with guides and guardians, or to heighten your intuition. Other options include ornamental items in a room to allow for the ambient healing energy to permeate. The artificial rainbows are believed to offer colour-healing metaphysical attributes for chakras and enlightenment.
Record Keeper Crystals
Record Keeper crystals are those crystals that have one or more perfect raised triangles on the side face of the crystal. These types of crystals cannot be fabricated. They are believed to contain the wisdom of the Atlantean priests and priestesses. Each record keeper provides a unique understanding of the universal truths and knowledge. They are used during meditation to access the pool of wisdom, and it is important that when working with them, you keep an open mind and do not seek specific answers or results. The idea is that the intention is to receive the information and knowledge relevant to you that you can understand and integrate into your current life. It takes time to work with them, as in practice, and it is believed that more than one person can work with a record keeper and receive different information from the crystal.
Rough Crystals
Raw crystals are also called 'rough' (and differ from the 'crystal in the rough'). Raw or rough usually means that they are unprocessed, uncut, without further refinements, and less handled by people before they reach you. Many prefer their crystals to be as natural as possible because they believe they emit a stronger (often sporadic) and unadulterated energy, and support a person to remain grounded in the present.
Rutilated Crystals
Rutilated Crystals are those clear quartz crystals that have needle-like inclusions called ‘rutile’ within them. They occur naturally during crystal development, and rutile can be a variety of colours, from gold to red, brown, and black. Some rare pieces contain silver coloured rutile. They are sometimes called ‘Venus Hair’ crystals, and the golden rutile is the most common. Rutilated crystals can be fabricated through lab-created substitutions rather than synthetic ones. Lab-created rutile is rare because it's not believed to be financially viable. The lab-grown rutilated Quartz is identifiable through its perfectly uniform needles. It is believed that by working with and wearing rutilated quartz, a person can experience greater happiness, excitement and joy in life. Other people believe that meditating with the crystal can expand a person's perception and awareness, enabling them to see their place within the larger vision, which leads to a heightened understanding of their life path, destiny, and the processes of eternal life. The type of learning and understanding will be associated with the inclusions of rutile - for instance, tourmaline will promote knowledge of the Earth Kingdom, and gold will promote understanding of the higher realms.
Scarab Crystals
Scarab crystals are carved stones, and their meaning is largely symbolic, although they will also carry the ambient metaphysical properties of the stones from which they are carved. Historically, in ancient Egypt, scarab beetle carvings were placed in tombs as a talisman of protection, symbolising rebirth, resurrection, and the ongoing cycle of life and immortality. In modern times, people will wear the scarab carving not only for protection, but also to attract good fortune and luck, to ward off illness and sickness, for energetic boundary protection (especially over the heart), for navigating the life path, and for accessing divine wisdom. People will use the scarab as amulets or talismans of protection and luck (especially with travel and connection to higher realms) and to encourage strength and resilience during difficult times.
Sheet Crystals
Sheet or 'Lens' crystals are distinct from 'Window Crystals,' even though they are sometimes called 'window crystals.' They form in flat layers and are clear. Physically, they can magnify light and have the light-bending properties similar to when we look into a dome or curved item (such as a spoon). Many are from Brazil, although you can often find sheets in various sizes in Selenite. They are attributes that magnify the intention of an energetic activity (such as healing or meditating for knowledge), or that help develop psychic vision and the ability to see beyond or through the illusions of the mind. They are often used for ‘shamanic journeying’ and revelations, and to heal trauma through a gentle release (especially past life). They can be used with the Herkimer Diamond to activate the brow chakra.
Single Facet Crystals
Single-faceted crystals are created by cutting a larger crystal into smaller pieces and polishing one side to enhance its colours. They are less processed and preferred by people who love crystals and like them to be processed as little as possible before reaching them. They are popular with mineral collectors and crystal enthusiasts. Metaphysicians believe they emit the same energy as a rough crystal and enjoy the tactile sensation when holding them in their hands while meditating. Other times, a metaphysician will keep them in the environment to emit ambient energy.
Single Terminator Crystals
Single terminated points are naturally formed crystals that have usually broken away from a larger cluster. They are 'open' on one end, and pointed at the other end. Crystal healers use clear quartz single-terminated points as part of their treatments, where it is believed that energy enters through the 'open end' and exits in a focused and pointed direction to a person, part of a person or a crystal. For instance, they may place a tumbled stone over a chakra and surround it with crystal points, directed to amplify the stone's natural healing attributes, which is believed to strengthen the healing of a specific chakra.
Slices
Mineral slices are slices of a bigger 'rock' that have usually been sliced and then polished on both 'faces' to enhance the colour and appearance of any of the crystals' unique details, such as stripes. They tend to be more popular with specimen collectors than crystal enthusiasts; however, they allow enthusiasts to collect without worrying about freight costs if they have to order it from overseas. Enthusiasts believe the slices emit ambient energy within the environment where they are placed, and some people will meditate with the slices. Crystal enthusiasts will often use a slice as an ornament, as part of experiencing 'ambient energy'.
Spheres
Spheres are carved from larger rocks and are popular with crystal enthusiasts and collectors. Quartz spheres (of varying colours) are also popular with the metaphysical industry and workers for 'scrying' or 'gazing'. However, they are believed to send ambient energy into the environment aligned with the crystal attributes from which they have been sourced. Depending on the size of the sphere, you can wear it on your person, as an amulet, jewellery item, or use them in crystal healing grids, chakra balancing and so forth. The way you use them is up to your imagination. The larger spheres are popular as ornaments, and as part of energising the environment.
Tabulated
A Tabulated crystal is a flat crystal that has at least one notch. Metaphysically, they are believed to teach the lessons of opening and expanding the mind and thinking, and to break free from the daily grind and the mundane. It reminds us that life is more than the day-to-day, and that we should all strive to live each day to the full, and to achieve our true potential. They are emotionally uplifting and help retain a sense of wonder and awe, combined with appreciation, gratitude, and joy for each moment, to see opportunities and act upon them. Recommended for people who are feeling a lack of joy and are trapped by circumstances.
Tourmalinated
Many crystals can contain tourmaline; however, the usual reference to ‘tourmalinated quartz’ is to clear quartz with tourmaline needle-like inclusions within the crystal. It combines the metaphysical attributes of purification and amplification of clear quartz with the grounding, stabilising and protective attributes of tourmaline, making it a powerful choice for protection and stability. It is recommended for people seeking to re-pattern and break old, restrictive, and unhealthy habits. Recommended as an amulet for people suffering from boundary issues and desiring protection against negativity and ‘psychic attack’ (energy transfer), and believed to act as a shield. Other attributes include balancing the polarities of yin/yang and overcoming self-sabotaging thoughts and behaviours. Requires regular cleansing and charging.
Towers
The natural quartz type tower usually has a natural hexagonal shape with six sides meeting at a six-sided point. Typically, they will be wider at the base. However, they can be carved to be even on all sides. Some towers may be octagonal (8 sides) and are generally marketed for chakra healing purposes. Depending on the size of the tower, it is often cut and polished at the base to create stability. Some towers are less distinctive and naturally formed and will be of different materials. Towers are excellent for transmitting ambient energy into the environment. Depending on the tower size, you can also hold it during meditation or place it nearby.
Tumbled Stones
Tumbled stones or crystals are the smaller part of a larger mineral, unsuitable for carving and often not considered suitable for jewellery making. They are usually the leftover pieces of a bigger carving, set aside to sell as tumbled, although in some instances, they are mined with the intention of tumbling. Usually, we consider tumbled and polished stones smaller stones (less than 3cm or less) that hold no value to collectors but are considered valuable to metaphysicians, as amulets, chakra balancers, healing grids or for making crystal elixirs. Larger Tumbled stones are what is called 'freeform shapes'. (CAUTION: Some crystals contain toxic minerals and are unsuitable for ingestion, prohibiting them from being used as an elixir. Other crystals are not suitable for water immersion. See our section on "Toxic Crystals".)
Twin Points
A twin-point crystal is a naturally occurring crystal that grows with and attaches to another crystal. The 'join' is clearly visible, and the crystals have two separate points (one of which is usually longer than the other). Sometimes, the twins will angle at each other at the tip, but they are still clearly attached. Twin-point crystals are popular with crystal enthusiasts and metaphysicians because they are believed to support balance, enhance communication and cooperation, and bring harmony to relationships.
When the twin points are the same length, they are believed to be a 'soulmate' or 'twin flame' point, which attracts your soul mate or strengthens the telepathic communication between you and your loved one. Other beliefs include working with your soul mate to uncover karmic links (and heal them). When a person is not in a romantic relationship (and has no desire to do so), the twin is believed to help create and heighten internal balance and independence. Attributes of the crystal include the balancing of yin/yang, masculine and feminine individual energy and unifying them, giving a greater sense of internal unity and wholeness.
Wands
Crystal 'wands' come in a variety of shapes and styles, and not all are polished. They can be carved from crystals or from wood, with crystal additions. Massage wands are usually fairly small, and other wands can be used for ritual or healing purposes. Selenite wands can be extremely long (over a meter), and are generally unpolished. The type of wand you purchase will determine the use. Selenite wands are generally used to clear and purify the aura and to remove chakra blockages. Wooden wands with crystal points are generally used for ‘psychic surgery’.
Windows
The window crystal has a perfect diamond-shaped window at the top near the apex. The diamond window crystal is a specific type of crystal with a singular purpose - that is, to assist you in focusing on seeing your own ‘inner diamond’ or ‘soul diamond’. The purpose is one that allows you to go beneath the subconscious and to see and understand yourself - your drivers, your motives, your areas for improvement, and your gifts. If you feel lost and inadequate, you will benefit from using the diamond window to uncover your pathway and regain direction and purpose. Particularly beneficial when there is a need for ‘self-help’. It is believed to dispel confusion and to regain clarity and direction.
Worry Stones
Worry stones are similar to palm stones and can be used in the same way; however, they are smaller and designed for handling when feeling stressed or anxious. They are usually smaller and thinner, and they have a hollowed-out area for the thumb to rub against them. They fit easily into a pocket or a handbag. It is believed that handling them supports receiving the healing attributes of the crystal they are carved from.
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