Crystals are pure substances whose molecules form solid structures extending in three dimensions and boasting well-defined geometric forms. They differ from minerals in that their molecules don’t always form crystals but still take form solidly over time.

Madagascar is one of the world’s leading producers of crystals, yet over 80% are mined artisanally for minimal money in remote regions by families or small groups without regulations in place.

Crystals are a natural form of energy

Crystals such as quartz and obsidian are often believed to possess healing properties that benefit mind, body and soul. Ancient cultures such as Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Chinese all made use of crystals for spiritual practices and healing purposes.

Some believe that amethyst and rose quartz stones help foster love, balance and peace while jade and citrine may promote prosperity and creativity. Other stones like clear quartz and selenite may amplify energy and aid detoxification.

Crystals come in all sorts of forms, from tumbled stones to large crystal clusters and gemstone beads. You can wear these beautiful gems as jewelry or add them to a mala (a string of prayer beads used during meditation to count repetitions of mantra). When purchasing your crystals, be sure to cleanse them to get rid of any negative energy they may have absorbed – this can be accomplished either by running them under water or leaving them out in sunlight or moonlight for at least 24 hours prior to use.

They’re beautiful

Crystals possess an ordered structure which gives them their distinctive shapes and symmetrical patterns, distinguishing them from rocks and minerals. Furthermore, crystals shine beautifully with an appealing luster – just like nature’s perfect dancers lined up in an orderly pattern like snowflakes do. Each snowflake contains thousands of individual crystals of ice.

Crystal gemstones make an elegant addition to any jewelry collection, boasting their wide array of colors, shapes, textures and luster that reflects light perfectly.

Many people believe that crystals contain unique energies which can have profound impacts on both physical and spiritual wellbeing. People commonly use these crystals for emotional healing, increasing energy levels and encouraging personal development – it’s important to know your preferences when selecting an appropriate crystal.

They’re healing

Crystals are commonly believed to have curative powers for the mind, body, and soul. These beautiful stones are said to contain positive, fruitful energy which helps remove negative energies from our lives while simultaneously supporting mindfulness practices that foster a healthy mindset.

Some believe that various colors of crystals contain unique healing properties. Red crystals may help stimulate health and passion while green ones focus on peace and prosperity; orange crystals have been linked with dissipating negative energy while encouraging growth.

Pointed crystals are thought to direct positive energy inward while negative energy outward, while flat surfaces disperse their energies evenly. Integrating crystals into meditation or mindfulness practices may further strengthen their effects.

Though there’s no scientific proof that crystals possess healing powers, using them to promote a healthier outlook shouldn’t cause harm. Just ensure to set realistic expectations and don’t treat crystals as an alternative form of mental health treatment.

They’re versatile

Crystals and gemstones can be powerful tools for reaching different goals. Some promote energy, motivation and creativity; others foster spiritual connection or emotional healing; still others, such as mookaite jasper, can promote adaptability and openness towards new opportunities.

Black tourmaline absorbs negative energy and releases it, providing pain relief and stress reduction. Amethyst soothes anxiety while clearing the mind – ideal for meditation or relaxation – while rose quartz acts as a heart healer, encouraging self-love, emotional healing, and harmony.

To find the ideal crystal, start by setting your intention and determining what you would like it to support. Next, read about each stone to determine which resonate with you before paying attention to how it feels in your hands – trust your instincts!