By Dominique Michelle Astorino | Source

Despite lacking scientific evidence, many people incorporate them into alternative medicine practices.

Do rocks have healing properties? The concept of a calming stone with healing powers is nothing new. In fact, raw crystals and gemstones have been valued for their beauty, rarity and alleged metaphysical properties for thousands of years.

The recent surge in crystal popularity, as swaths of individuals seek alternative approaches to wellness and self-care, has many wondering what crystals actually do and which ones provide specific healing properties. From lapis lazuli to citrine, let’s get to know healing crystals and their meanings in today’s global wellness culture.

What Are Healing Crystals?

Healing crystals are natural mineral formations — think a geode, a tumbled stone or a cluster — believed to have metaphysical properties that promote physical, emotional and spiritual well-being, and imbue positive energy.

The theory is that crystals interact with the body’s energy field to promote physical and spiritual healing. However, there are no scientific studies showing that crystals can heal diseases or transfer energy to a person.

Still, proponents point out that the use of healing crystals is prevalent in various cultures throughout history. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese and Native Americans all incorporated crystals into their spiritual and healing practices.

Historically, Egyptians used crystals like lapis lazuli and carnelian in jewelry, amulets and burial rituals. In Chinese culture, jade was (and still is) a highly stone revered for its protective and healing qualities — you’ll find tools in traditional Chinese medicine that harness the healing power of jade, like a gua sha stone. Indian Ayurvedic traditions have long recognized the therapeutic properties of gemstones, known as ratnas.

Why Use Healing Stones

People use healing crystals because they believe these stones have natural energies that can positively impact their lives.

• Balance and calm: Certain stones, like amethyst or rose quartz, might help one feel more grounded, calm and centered.
• Focus and clarity: People might use these stones during meditation, study or work to help clear distractions and stay focused.
• Energy boost: Some stones promote energy, motivation and creativity.
• Spiritual connection: Crystals can serve as tools for meditation or personal reflection, helping people feel more connected to themselves or the universe.

Emotional healing: Some stones can help release emotional blockages.

How to Use Crystal Stones

Whether or not these stones have healing energy is up to the person using and experiencing the crystal itself. There’s no universal guide that explains crystals and their meanings, as they have different uses in different cultures and cultural contexts. However, there are some that are more broadly accepted.

In some instances, particularly in Western cultures, these “healing stones” are simply used to help bring awareness to a meditation (or similar practice) for well-being. Crystal healing, meditation, feng shui and jewelry all allow the user to connect with Mother Earth and the natural world (specifically, the mineral kingdom) and explore their spiritual and energetic needs.