For centuries, crystals and gemstones have been used for their perceived healing and metaphysical properties. Many cultures worldwide have used them as part of rituals or spiritual treatment, believing they can help promote positivity, prosperity and well-being.
The earliest known use of crystals and gemstones for their mystical properties can be dated back to 4000 BCE with the Ancient Sumerians. Other ancient cultures, like China, Greece and Egypt, have recorded the use of crystals and gemstones, too.
The use of sacred stones and crystals can be found in the texts of many organised religions, like Christianity, and mythology. Many believe that the use of crystals and gemstones dates back even further than 4000 BCE, but we just don’t have records.
So—it’s time to turn to the specific gemstones and crystals that potentially bring good luck, fortune and protection. Whether you believe in the mystical properties or just simply love the look, below we’ve outlined the five must-have crystals and gemstones, and what they can do.
Amethyst
A mesmerising shade of purple, the amethyst is a type of quartz that has been revered for millennia. For thousands of years, the amethyst has been a sign of power, intellect and protection in many ancient cultures.
The Ancient Egyptians believed amethyst was a “stone of intellect”. The Greeks believed that it could be used as a talisman against intoxication, whereas the Romans thought it could be used as an antidote against Bacchus’ wine-infused follies.
The lore for the amethyst, and how it is linked to sobriety, is interesting, too. The Greek myth for the crystal is that Athena herself plucked it from Dionysus’ tears. In present day, the healing properties and powers of amethyst include:
- Guarding against negativity: The idea that the amethyst holds protective powers is still held today. Many crystal enthusiasts believe amethysts can serve as a protective shield against harmful vibrations and bad aura.
- Cultivating serenity: Many cultures believe amethyst crystals have the power to promote calmness and tranquillity.
- Kindle intuition and spiritual awareness: It is believed that the amethyst can help its user to illuminate their inner self—fostering a deeper self-awareness and connection.
Green Jade
The green jade is the most sought-after hue for the gemstone and has been revered for thousands of years. Dating back to Ancient China, jade (nephrite) has been regarded as the most precious stone and symbolises “five virtues”.
These virtues are charity, rectitude, wisdom, courage and equity. The gemstone also has associations with Chinese conceptions of the soul and immortality. We have evidence going back as far as over 7000 years (5000 BCE) of jade production in China.
Green jade is a must-have for any home, especially if you’re of Asian descent and want to celebrate your heritage. Interestingly enough, while some crystals and gemstones have changed meaning and powers over the years, green jade has stayed consistent throughout history. Its powers can include:
- Balance overall well-being: The stone is believed to help balance the body, including bodily fluids and organs, and even remove toxins.
- Promote fertility: Throughout history, the green jade has been believed to be able to increase fertility and even help aid with childbirth.
- Bringing good luck: It is believed that if you carry a green jade or have the gemstone on display in your home, it can attract fortune and prosperity.
Agate
Known for their striking patterns and healing properties, agate stones are a type of chalcedony. The gemstone, composed of quartz and moganite, has been popular with many cultures throughout history.
The name ‘agate’ is believed to derive from the Achates River in Sicily, where Ancient Greek philosophers first discovered the gemstone. In ancient cultures, the agate was believed to be able to ward against evil and guard against natural disasters.
In the modern day, agate stones are believed to primarily help with mental health and positivity. They are seen as calming gemstones that can help heal inner anger, reduce anxiety and strengthen relationships.
Pyrite
Pyrite is a metallic mineral often called “fool’s gold” due to its striking resemblance to the precious metal. Although it may not be worth as much as gold, the mineral is believed to be a powerful stone with many positive qualities.
The properties and powers of pyrite include: attracting wealth and prosperity, and abundance. It is also believed that the mineral can also help with promoting self-esteem, willpower and confidence.
The optimal way to use pyrite is to set it up in the southwest quadrant of your home, following Feng Shui geomancy. It’s also important to remember that stones work best together, so you will want to surround the pyrite with other crystals or gemstones.
Malachite
Malachite is a green copper carbonate mineral and is often linked to success and as a guardian stone for travellers. Historically, this gemstone has been used for thousands of years, including by the Egyptians and the Greeks for its eye-catching colours.
The Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh, Cleopatra, used malachite as part of her makeup routine. She would ground malachite to use as eyeshadow for her lower eyelids. Ancient cultures also used malachite for its protective qualities, including:
- Helping with menstrual cramps: It is believed that malachite is closely linked with feminine energies, so it can assist with reducing menstrual cramps and labour pain. It’s also why the stone is also known as the “midwife stone”.
- Promoting quicker healing: Malachite was popular with healers and alchemists going back centuries. It is believed the stone can help with keeping down blood pressure and encourage faster healing.
- Flushing out toxic emotions: When it comes to emotional well-being, it is believed that malachite can help with flushing out toxic emotions, like anger and hate. It can help with letting go of negative thoughts and feelings.
