The ABCs of Gemstones, Crystals and Minerals
What was once considered folklore, myths, a prop for fortune tellers, or traveling salespeople has become a pretty mainstream idea: gemstones, crystals, and minerals hold healing properties and health benefits. From amethyst to zultanite, these stones aren’t just for decorating (although most are pretty and used to spruce up a room), they’ve got the support of science behind them.
Science behind these ‘Magical’ Stones
Crystals and gemstones are not a replacement for medicine or medical treatment, says Forbes Health, but there are scientific effects that are hard to ignore. The Placebo Effect is a large factor for gems and crystals, says the article. Believing you are being helped, emotionally and physically creates a shift in mindset that will actually bring benefits. Another effect is the Piezoelectric Effect, which helps to explain vibrational medicine. This effect “enables crystals to transform a mechanical pressure into another form of energy, such as light, electricity, or sound, and then amplify it.” There’s a few ways to use gems and crystals, says Forbes. You can hold them during meditation, wear them in jewelry, get a massage or a chiropractic adjustment, or simply decorate your home with them.
A person holds a crystal
One of the most common, and popular, crystals is amethyst. With a long list of healing properties, its popularity is no surprise. According to Healthline, amethyst has been claimed to aid the immune and endocrine system, help skin and digestive health, reduce headaches, and support hormone regulation. That’s just the physical effects. Amethyst is also known to promote serenity and calmness, being used as an anti-anxiety tool, says the article. It’s easy on the eyes too, with its marbled purple color and (depending on how it’s cut) jagged, yet touchable, texture.
Another popular gemstone is jade. This special gemstone has an ancient history, etched in jewelry and statues in China, says Healthline, and offers different health benefits depending on the color. Although jade mostly appears green, these gemstones are associated with calmness and tranquility. Jade could also potentially help organs such as the spleen, kidney, bladder, skeletal system and hormonal system, says the article. Emotionally, jade also lends itself to relationship and self healing.
Jade jewerly
Minerals
It isn’t just gemstones and crystals that should get all the credit for awesome healing properties; minerals also hold health benefits. Feldspar, mica, calcite, and olivine are just a few, says USGS.gov. Minerals are naturally occurring rocks with inorganic elements, says the article. They are different from gems and crystals because of their internal crystal structures, says Indiana University, even though they share the same chemical composition. A common mineral is quartz. Known as a “master healer,” says The Science Times, clear quartz is said to detoxify organs and boost the immune system to promote balance and tranquility. Quartz has properties that draws off negative energy, which helps unpollute the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of our bodies. It is said to also balance the chakras. Leading from its name, quartz is a translucent, white mineral, cut in smooth circles, pointed spears with roots, or kept raw with rough, scratchy textures.
In addition to taking care of your body regularly with diet, exercise, and self-care, reaching for a crystal, gemstone, or mineral is an awesome way to enhance your health. Not only will it boost your immunity and clear your mind it will help focus you to a more mindful and self-attentive life. And who couldn’t use more of that?
Bend’s Metaphysical Boutique at The Blissful Heart Wellness Center
Blissful Heart Boutique in Bend
Ready to raise your vibrations and start a collection of your own gemstones, crystals and minerals? Not sure where to begin? Swing by our metaphysical boutique in Bend—home to a variety of spiritual wellness tools, books, jewelry and more. We have helpful staff on hand to help you choose the perfect item for your spiritual journey. Find us at The Blissful Heart Wellness Center campus at 45 NW Greeley Ave in Bend.
Shop crystals and more in Bend at The Blissful Boutique