What should you never do with crystals? You should never do anything that puts your crystals or yourself at risk, whether it’s physical damage or energetic imbalance. Crystals attract all kinds of people—just look at this chart showing how many young people use them for spiritual reasons:
Sometimes, you might drop a crystal or handle it too roughly. Experts say that breaks happen, and you don’t need to feel bad. Instead, treat these moments as reminders to show yourself kindness and stay mindful. No matter your experience level, you can always learn something new about caring for your crystals.
Never Do with Crystals
Skipping Cleansing
You should never do crystal work without cleansing your stones first. Crystals pick up energy from everything around them. If you skip cleansing, your crystals can hold onto old or negative energy. This makes them less effective for healing or manifesting your goals. Many people think crystals stay clean on their own, but that is not true. Even if a crystal looks shiny, it can still carry unwanted energy.
Experts say you should cleanse your crystals after each meditation session. You can rinse most crystals under cold water for about ten minutes. This simple step helps remove any leftover energy. If you forget to cleanse, your crystals might feel heavy or dull. They may not work as well as you want. Never do crystal rituals with stones that have not been cleansed. You want your crystals to be fresh and ready for your intentions.
Tip: Some crystals do not like water. Always check if your stone is water-safe before rinsing.
Skipping Charging
You should also never do energy work with crystals that have not been charged. Charging gives your crystals a boost. Over time, crystals can become energetically depleted. They absorb and change negative energies, which can make them less powerful. If you skip charging, your crystals may not match your intentions. Their energy can feel weak or unfocused.
Here are some things that can happen if you skip charging:
- Crystals lose their energetic strength.
- They may not help you as much during healing or meditation.
- Stagnant energy can build up inside the stone.
- You miss out on forming a strong connection with your crystal.
To keep your crystals at their best, charge them regularly. Experts suggest placing them in midday sunlight for about an hour after cleansing. You can do this daily or whenever your crystals feel tired. Never do important crystal work with stones that have not been charged. Charged crystals feel vibrant and ready to support you.
Sunlight
Fading and Damage
You might think sunlight is the best way to charge your crystals. It feels natural and easy. But did you know that direct sunlight can actually harm some crystals? Crystals like amethyst, rose quartz, and aquamarine are very sensitive to sunlight. Their bright colors come from special minerals inside them. When you leave these crystals in the sun, their colors can fade over time. For example, amethyst gets its purple color from iron. Sunlight changes the iron and makes the purple fade away. Sometimes, this fading happens slowly over months. You may not notice it at first, but after a while, your crystal will look dull and pale.
Sunlight can also cause crystals to crack or even break. Some crystals heat up quickly and expand. This can make them split or chip. There is another risk, too. Crystals with smooth or round surfaces can focus sunlight like a magnifying glass. This can start a fire if you leave them on a windowsill or near paper. Always think about where you put your crystals. You want them to stay safe and beautiful.
Tip: If you love the color of your crystals, keep them out of direct sunlight. Store them in a cool, shaded place.
Safe Alternatives
You do not have to use sunlight to charge your crystals. Many safe and easy methods work just as well. Here are some expert-approved ways to charge your crystals without risking damage:
| Method | Description | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Moonlight Charging | Place crystals under the moon, especially during a full moon. | Leave them outside or on a windowsill overnight. |
| Sound Vibrations | Use singing bowls, bells, or tuning forks. | Play the sound near your crystals for a few minutes. |
| Selenite Slabs/Clusters | Put your crystals on selenite or clear quartz clusters. | Let them sit for a few hours to recharge. |
| Charging Grids | Arrange crystals in a special pattern. | Set up a grid on a flat surface and leave crystals there for a day or two. |
| Reiki/Personal Energy | Hold your crystals and focus your energy and intention. | Imagine your energy flowing into the crystal for a few minutes. |
Try these methods to keep your crystals strong and colorful. You can find the one that feels best for you. Your crystals will thank you!
Water
Water-Sensitive Stones
Some people think rinsing crystals in water is always safe. This is not true for every stone. Certain crystals can get ruined by water very quickly. When water touches these crystals, it can change how they are built. Sometimes, the crystal can even fall apart. For example, the CL-20/TNT cocrystal is very sensitive to water. Water molecules stick to its surface using hydrogen bonds. This changes how the atoms are arranged. The crystal can break or react more easily. Even a little water in the air can make these crystals weaker.
Here are some crystals you should never put in water:
- Selenite
- Malachite
- Lepidolite
- Halite
- Pyrite
- CL-20/TNT cocrystal (used in science, not at home)
These stones can break down, rust, or get weaker when wet. Water can also make small cracks or rough spots on them. If you want your crystals to last, always check if they are safe in water before cleaning.
Note: Crystals with many hydrogen bonds or soft surfaces are usually more sensitive to water.
Saltwater Risks
Saltwater might sound like a strong way to clean crystals, but it can hurt them even more. Salt can scratch soft stones and get into tiny cracks. Over time, saltwater can wear away the crystal’s surface or change its color. Some stones, like malachite and pyrite, can react with salt and water to make dangerous compounds.
Here’s a quick guide:
| Crystal Type | Water Safe? | Saltwater Safe? |
|---|---|---|
| Quartz | Yes | Yes |
| Selenite | No | No |
| Malachite | No | No |
| Amethyst | Yes | No |
| Pyrite | No | No |
If you want a safe way to clean your crystals, try sound, moonlight, or a soft brush. These ways keep your stones strong and nice without any danger from water or salt.
Storage
Scratching
Crystals can look tough, but many scratch or chip easily. If you toss them together in a box or bag, they bump into each other. Harder stones can scratch softer ones. Even a small scratch can dull the shine or ruin the shape. You might not notice right away, but over time, your favorite crystal could lose its sparkle.
To keep your crystals safe, give each one its own space. Use soft pouches, small boxes, or wrap them in cloth. You can also use jewelry organizers with separate slots. This way, your crystals do not touch and stay in good shape.
Tip: Always clean your storage containers before putting crystals inside. Dust or grit can scratch the surface, too.
Environment
Where you store your crystals matters just as much as how you store them. Humidity can cause some crystals to break down or grow mold. Keep your crystals in a dry place. Sealed containers help block out moisture and protect against chemical changes.
Light can also hurt certain crystals. Some stones fade or change color if you leave them in sunlight or bright rooms. Store light-sensitive crystals in dark or amber-colored containers to keep their colors bright.
Temperature changes can damage crystals, too. If you freeze and thaw them over and over, they can crack or lose their shape. For most crystals, room temperature works best. If you need to store them for a long time, keep them in a cool, stable place. Avoid moving them between hot and cold spots.
Here’s a quick checklist for safe crystal storage:
- Use soft, separate containers or pouches
- Keep humidity low with sealed boxes
- Store away from direct sunlight
- Avoid big temperature swings
- Check on your crystals now and then
Taking these steps helps your crystals stay beautiful and strong for years.
Mixing Crystals
Incompatible Stones
It might seem fun to put all your favorite crystals together. But not every stone works well with others. Some crystals can have problems when mixed. Their energies might fight or stop each other from working. This means you may not get the effect you want. For example, a calming stone and an energizing stone can make you feel mixed up.
Here’s a table of crystal pairs you should not mix:
| Crystal Combination | Why They Clash | What Happens When Mixed |
|---|---|---|
| Carnelian + Amethyst | Carnelian energizes, Amethyst calms | Both lose their benefits |
| Rose Quartz + Black Tourmaline | Rose Quartz is gentle, Black Tourmaline is strongly protective | Rose Quartz’s energy gets overwhelmed |
| Citrine + Amethyst | Citrine is vibrant, Amethyst is calming | You may feel anxious or restless |
| Selenite + Hematite | Selenite purifies, Hematite grounds | Selenite can cancel Hematite’s grounding |
| Tiger’s Eye + Hematite | Tiger’s Eye stimulates, Hematite grounds | Both become less effective |
Tip: Do not use random crystal mixes for energy work. Always check if your crystals are a good match.
Energy Conflicts
Some crystals have elements that do not go together. Water stones and air stones can make bad energy if you mix them. Fire stones and water stones can stop each other from working. Fire stones and earth stones can also cause problems. These mixes can make your energy feel strange or block your goals.
If you want your crystals to work well, use stones with matching elements. Water and earth stones are a good pair. Air and fire stones also work well together. When you pick the right stones, they help each other and make their energy stronger.
Here are some easy tips for mixing crystals:
- Put together stones that do the same thing, like all calming or all energizing.
- Use crystals with the same element for better energy.
- Try a new mix and see how you feel before using it for something important.
The best results come from careful choices. Watch how your crystals act together, and you will see a big change in your energy work.
Placement
Home Areas
Where you put your crystals at home matters a lot. Some spots can boost their energy, while others might cause problems. If you place crystals in the wrong area, you might block energy flow or even risk your health. For example, using crystal drinkware that contains lead or cadmium can be dangerous. Always buy crystal glasses from trusted brands that test for toxic metals. Look for labels like “Not for Food Use” or “Lead-Based Glaze.” If you have old crystal glassware, test it for lead before using it. You can use a lead test kit from a hardware store or check for warning labels, especially if you live in places like California where safety rules are strict.
When you want to use crystals for energy in your home, think about the purpose of each room. Place calming stones like amethyst in your living room to create a peaceful vibe. Keep energizing stones like citrine in your workspace to help you focus. Avoid putting strong, activating crystals in your bedroom, as they can disturb your sleep.
Tip: Store crystals away from direct sunlight and moisture to keep them safe and powerful.
Body Placement
Placing crystals on your body can help with healing and energy flow, but you need to do it safely. Energy healers suggest matching crystals to the chakra they support. For example, wear rose quartz near your heart to boost love and kindness. Crystal jewelry like pendants or bracelets works well because it keeps the stone close to your skin. Rings and bracelets can also help, especially since your hands have many reflex points.
Here’s a simple way to use crystals for energy healing:
- Lie down in a quiet spot.
- Place crystals on each chakra, starting at the root and moving up.
- Focus on each area for a few minutes, imagining the energy clearing.
- Spend extra time on spots that feel blocked.
- When you finish, remove the crystals slowly from top to bottom.
Always make sure your crystals touch your skin for the best effect. Cleanse and recharge them often to keep their energy fresh. Carrying a small crystal in your pocket can also give you a gentle boost throughout the day.
Physical Activity
Wearing During Sports
You might love wearing your favorite crystal bracelet or necklace every day. It feels special and keeps your energy close. But when you play sports or do any intense physical activity, it’s best to take your crystals off. Crystals can break, chip, or scratch if they hit hard surfaces or get caught on clothing. Sweat and water can also damage some stones, making them lose their shine or even fall apart.
If you swim, run, or play basketball, leave your crystals in a safe place. This keeps them looking beautiful and helps them last longer. Crystal bracelets, in particular, should come off before you jump in the pool or use harsh cleaning products. Chemicals and water can weaken the string or metal, and some stones react badly to moisture.
Tip: Wear your crystal bracelet on your left hand when you want to absorb its energy, but always remove it before any rough activity.
Handling
Crystals need gentle care. When you pick them up, use clean hands and hold them softly. Dropping a crystal, even from a short height, can cause cracks or chips. Some crystals are very delicate and can break with just a little pressure.
Here are some best practices for handling your crystals:
- Cleanse them with gentle methods like sound or moonlight. Avoid harsh chemicals or rough scrubbing.
- Store each crystal in its own pouch or box to prevent scratching.
- Listen to your body. If a crystal feels uncomfortable, take a break and try another one.
- Check your intentions often. Make sure the crystals you use match your current goals.
Treat your crystals with respect, and they will support you for a long time. A little extra care goes a long way in keeping both their energy and beauty strong.
Fake and Toxic Crystals
Synthetic Stones
Some crystals look perfect. They have bright colors and smooth shapes. There are no marks inside them. These might be synthetic stones. Synthetic stones are made in a lab, not by nature. Many people use these stones by mistake. They think the stones are real. If you want to use crystals for energy, check if your stone is natural. Synthetic stones do not have the same energy as natural ones.
Here are some ways to tell if a crystal is synthetic:
- Synthetic gems look very clear inside when you use a magnifying glass.
- The color can look too bright or too perfect.
- You might not see any natural marks inside.
- Some lab-made stones have curved lines or bubbles. These do not show up in natural crystals.
If you are not sure, ask an expert to look at your stone with a microscope. Sometimes, even experts have trouble telling them apart. Do not use a stone for energy work if you think it is fake. It may not work the way you want.
Toxic Minerals
Some crystals are pretty but can be unsafe to touch or keep at home. Certain minerals have toxic parts that can hurt your health. For example, cinnabar has mercury. Malachite has copper. Long ago, people used cinnabar as a paint. It made them sick from mercury. Scientists found high mercury in old bones. This shows cinnabar caused real health problems.
Here is a table of some toxic minerals and their risks:
| Mineral | Toxic Component(s) | Health Risks | Handling Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cinnabar | Mercury | Nerve damage, kidney problems | Avoid touching or breathing dust |
| Malachite | Copper | Stomach pain, liver damage | Wash hands after handling, do not breathe dust |
| Galena | Lead | Brain and nerve issues | Keep away from kids, do not grind or sand |
| Pyrite | Arsenic, Sulfur | Poisoning, breathing problems | Store dry, avoid breaking or crushing |
| Chrysotile | Asbestos fibers | Lung disease, cancer | Never break or sand, avoid old asbestos collections |
Always wash your hands after you touch these stones. Never make crystal water or elixirs with toxic minerals. To stay safe, keep these crystals in closed boxes. Keep them away from kids and pets.
Bedroom Use
Higher Chakra Stones
You might want to keep all your favorite crystals in your bedroom. Some look nice on your nightstand or under your pillow. But not every crystal is good for sleep. Activating stones, especially those for higher chakras, can make your mind too busy at bedtime. These crystals give you energy and spark new ideas. They also open your intuition. This is helpful during the day, but not at night. At night, you need to relax and rest.
Here’s a quick chart of stones that can cause sleep problems:
| Stone | Chakra Association | Sleep Disruption Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Labradorite | Intuition, spiritual development | Makes your mind too active, causes wild dreams |
| Citrine | Energy, motivation | Makes you think too much, causes restless sleep and strong dreams |
| Tiger’s Eye | Focus, confidence | Keeps you alert, makes it hard to calm down |
| Carnelian | Vitality, enthusiasm | Gives you too much energy, hard to fall asleep |
| Hematite | Grounding | Can make you feel alone and cause restless sleep |
Tip: Use these stones in your office or meditation spot. Your bedroom should be peaceful and calm.
Sleep Disruption
If you keep activating crystals in your bedroom, you might toss and turn at night. Your mind stays busy, and your dreams can get weird or strong. Stones like labradorite and citrine can make your thoughts race. Tiger’s eye and carnelian fill you with energy, which is not good before bed. Hematite can sometimes make you feel far away or uneasy.
If you wake up tired or can’t fall asleep, check what crystals are near your bed. Try using calming stones like amethyst or lepidolite instead. You will probably sleep better and feel more rested. Remember, your bedroom is for rest. Pick crystals that help you relax and get ready for tomorrow.
Delicate Crystals
Special Care
Some crystals look strong, but they are actually fragile. You may not realize which ones need extra care until you see a chip or scratch. Many soft or porous stones can break, fade, or even dissolve if you do not handle them gently. It is important to know which crystals need gentle care so you can keep them looking nice and strong.
Here’s a helpful table to show you:
| Sensitivity Type | Examples of Crystals | How to Handle Safely |
|---|---|---|
| Avoid Water | Selenite, Malachite, Lepidolite, Halite, Kyanite, Opal, Turquoise, Raw Stones | Never soak in water. Dry quickly if wet. Keep away from salt water. |
| Photosensitive | Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Fluorite, Opal, Amber | Store out of sunlight. Use shaded boxes or drawers to protect color and shine. |
| Easily Scratched | Celestite, Chrysocolla, Malachite, Fluorite | Handle with care. Keep away from harder stones like quartz. Use soft pouches or cloth wraps for storage. |
Tip: Always check the Mohs hardness scale for your crystal. Softer stones (below 5) need the most gentle care.
Cleansing Methods
You want your delicate crystals to stay clean and full of good energy, but rough cleaning can hurt them. Do not use water or strong chemicals on soft or porous stones. Try these gentle ways instead:
- Wipe your crystals with a soft microfiber cloth.
- Use a dry makeup brush for small cracks or rough spots.
- Gently wipe with a clean, dry cloth. Never scrub hard.
- Do not use ultrasonic cleaners. They can break fragile stones.
- Never use bleach, vinegar, toothpaste, or mouthwash. These can harm the surface or make colors fade.
If you do not know how hard your crystal is, look it up before cleaning. When you are unsure, always pick the gentlest way. Your crystals will stay pretty and full of energy!
You want your crystals to last and work their best. Experts say you should never do things like leaving crystals in sunlight, storing them together, or cleaning all stones with water. Handle each crystal with clean hands and give them their own space. Regular energy clearing and gentle charging keep them strong. When you follow these simple steps, your crystals stay beautiful and powerful. Good care brings out the best in every stone!
FAQ
Can I put all my crystals together in one bowl?
You should not mix all your crystals in one bowl. Harder stones can scratch softer ones. Some crystals do not get along energetically. Give each crystal its own space or use soft pouches.
How often should I cleanse my crystals?
You should cleanse your crystals after each use or at least once a month. If your crystal feels heavy or dull, it needs cleansing. Trust your intuition. Some people like to cleanse during the full moon.
What is the safest way to charge my crystals?
Moonlight is the safest way to charge most crystals. Place them on a windowsill overnight during a full moon. You can also use sound, selenite, or your own intention. Avoid sunlight for sensitive stones.
Can I use crystals in water bottles or elixirs?
Warning: Never put crystals directly in your water. Some stones can release toxins or break apart. Use a separate chamber or place the crystal next to your bottle for safe energy transfer.
