Gemstone Information

Gemstones vs Crystals

In the world of alternative healing, there are two words that are commonly used synonymously– gemstones and crystals. Even though people tend to use these words interchangeably, they do have differences.

A gemstone is cut, faceted and polished to be set in jewelry or to decorate or accentuate an item.

A crystal, in its simplest definition, is pure substance that is a solid body with a geometrically regular shape.

A gem can be a crystal, whereas a crystal will not always be a gem.

There are overlaps when it comes to healing properties and use of them, which is why most healers, and people exploring alternative healing, use the terms similarly.

I am the first to admit, I am not a certified or professional Gemologist, but I am a certified Reiki Practitioner (energy healer), who has seen the power of gemstones and crystals; I am also 100% guilty of using them interchangeably :)

Why Gemstones?

Gemstones & Crystals can enhance your environment and also look stylish. Wearing gems were used to be common among royalty. It was much more than a badge of status, it conveyed power to the wearer. As far back as the Stone Age, people wore crystals and gemstones as talismans. They had a protective as well as a decorative function, guarding their wearer from harm.

Today, these stones carry the same power and jewelry serves a purpose besides its attractive exterior. Wearing crystals or gemstones assist with aspects such as, boosting your energy (Carnelian), attracting wealth (Citrine) or absorbing negative energy (Smoky Quartz). Stones such as Black Tourmaline are excellent to wear because it releases clean energy and protects you from electromagnetic emanations, including cell phones and computers, as well as protect from negative energies.

Science Behind Crystals

Crystals were created as the earth formed and they have continued to metamorphose as the planet itself has changed. They are the earth's DNA; a chemical imprint for evolution. Some have been subjected to enormous pressure, others grew up in chambers deep underground, some were laid down in layers, others dripped into being - all of which affects their properties and the way they function. Whatever form they take, their crystalline structure can absorb, conserve, focus, and emit energy; especially on the electromagnetic waveband.

At the heart of a crystal is the atom and its component parts. An atom is dynamic, consisting of particles rotating around a center in constant motion. So, although a crystal may look outwardly serene, it is actually a seething molecular mass vibrating at a certain frequency. This is what gives a crystal its energy.

Healing

Crystals and gemstones have been used for millennia to heal and bring balance. They work through resonance, and vibration, and aid with holistic healing; this is to say they work on the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels of being. They realign subtle energies that cause dis-ease, getting to the root cause.

Our Chakra system has an impact on us holistically. But when our system is not in a state of balance, this can have an impact on our emotional, mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Crystals and gemstones can act as "sponges" and cleansers to help balance our life force energy, which in turn realigns our Chakras. By bringing the Chakras back into balance, many states of physical and psychological dis-ease can be made better. There are even specific stones that assist with specific organs, illnesses, emotions, situations, stressors, aspects of spirituality, Chakras, etc. Just like there's seems to be an app for everything, it's the same in the crystal and gemstone world!

Some are even used in modern medical practices. They can produce electricity, and sometimes light, when compressed. This is harnessed in ultrasound machines, which uses this to produce sound waves. Sound is now being applied at the leading edge of surgery. A tightly focused beam of ultrasound can cauterize wounds deep within the body and blast tumors apart without the need for invasive procedures.

Ancient Healers also knew that some crystals and gemstones we either energizing or calming and some that would sedate an overactive organ or stimulate a sluggish one.

Crystals and Gemstones are excellent for dealing with headaches; Lapis Lazuli will quickly draw off a migraine. But depending on what is causing it can also determine the stone you wear. For example, Amethyst is good for stress induced, whereas Moonstone or citrine for food related induced headaches.

Not sure which stone is best for your specific healing needs? Contact us!

Soul NRG can assist you in choosing and designing your jewelry based your requirements and preferences.

*Most information is from The Crystal Bible by Judy Hall