Let Them Choose You

Crystals are solid inorganic substances that have a highly ordered structure, with tiny particles forming a crystal lattice that extends in all directions. Snowflakes, diamonds and table salt are examples of pure crystals.

Rocks (as well as most metals and some other inorganic solids, such as ice) are actually polycrystals, because they are made up of many microscopic crystals.

For centuries, people have admired the symmetrical beauty of crystals and polycrystals. People also attributed to crystals magical and mystical powers. It is believed that ancient Sumerians used crystals in magic formulas as far back as the 4th millennium BC. Crystals have been present in traditional Chinese medicine for about five thousand years, while ancient Egyptians trusted that lapis lazuli, turquoise, emerald and other stones incorporated in their jewellery would not only make them look good, but would also ensure that good things happen to them.

The belief in magical, healing or otherwise beneficial powers of crystals and rocks continues today.

Shapes

When browsing through the Bob Shop Crystals section within the Holistic and Esoteric category, you will notice that many sellers are careful to describe the shape of the crystal or rock they are offering.

This emphasis on the form is not accidental. It is believed that specific shapes are more conducive for a particular purpose than others. For example:

Pendulums are favoured by people who are seeking guidance or people who wish to see something that is to take place in the future. Thus, an expectant mother may ask the pendulum what gender the unborn child will be.

Pyramids are most commonly placed on a desk at home or in an office to emit and magnify positive energy.

Spheres allow energy to radiate in all directions equally. They can be used as a window into the past and future as they move energy through time. In the esoteric world, this is called scrying.

Tumbled stones can be carried around in pockets or in small pouches.

Other popular shapes include a wand, egg shape, prism, point, needle, and so on. Crystals are often incorporated into pieces of jewellery such as pendants, earrings and rings or joined to form a crystal tree.

Meaning and Benefits

In the esoteric world, the type of crystal or stone is even more important than the shape. However, when it comes to the meaning and benefits of a specific crystal or rock, there are many different, sometimes contradictory assertions, which is to be expected in a field that does not lend itself to any kind of systematisation.

Still, we’ll try to present properties commonly attributes to the crystals that are among the most popular on Bob Shop.

Agate is a stone of relaxation, balance, cleansing, meditation and vitality. Different types of agate have their own distinct properties. For example, moss agate is great for gardens, because it ensures beautiful and abundant flowers.

Amethyst stimulates and soothes the mind and emotions, encourages inner strength and relieves stress. Known in ancient times as the stone of sobriety, amethyst was used to prevent drunkenness and overindulgence.

Carnelian enhances courage, vitality, confidence and action. It also conquers the fear of public speaking.

Citrine promotes mental clarity and creativity and assists in acquiring and retaining wealth.

Hematite stimulates the mind, protects the wearer and provides stability.

Jade comes in a variety of colours. Green jade radiates a sense of well-being in all areas of life and promotes wisdom, peace and balance, while orange jade brings joy and teaches the interconnectedness of all beings.

Jasper stands for stability, comfort, security and strength.

Lapis lazuli enhances awareness, insight and truth. It deepens meditation during a yoga practice.

Quartz comes in many forms: rose, smoky, clear…. Rose quartz is the stone of unconditional love. It opens the heart to compassion and raises self-esteem.

Tiger’s eye enhances harmony and balance and wards off fear and anxiety.

Turquoise promotes leadership, enhances the clarity of communication and releases anxiety. It also protects from bodily harm.

Do they really work?

The numerous alleged medical properties of crystals are outside of the scope of this article, simply because any medical condition should be treated by a doctor.

But what about the claims regarding other benefits of crystals? Can they really protect, calm, inspire, energise, and so on? Well, that depends. Science says: definitely not. However, if you enjoy handling, sorting, displaying and contemplating the beauty of crystals and rocks, then they will certainly bring you many benefits.

Look for these beautiful creations of nature not only in the Crystals section, but also in the Jewellery & Accessories section of the Holistic and Esoteric category on Bob Shop. While you are at it, you may also want to explore Bob Shop’s Gemstones and Rocks category.

And finally, how do you know which crystals and rocks are right for you? The accepted wisdom in the esoteric community is that, ultimately, you do not choose a crystal. The crystal chooses you.