Choosing Your Crystals

Are you feeling lost, stressed out, and a little frazzled? Well, don’t worry, folks, because it’s time to turn to the marvelous world of crystals! These little gemstones have been revered for centuries for their healing properties and have been used by spiritual enthusiasts around the world to create a sense of balance, peace, and harmony.

Now, if you’re new to the world of crystals, you might be wondering how to choose the right one for you. Because let’s face it, there are tons of them out there, each with their own unique properties and vibes. But fear not because I’m here to guide you through the mystical forests of a crystal land and help you find your perfect match.

Whether you’re looking for a little bit of self-love, a boost in confidence, or just some good old-fashioned energy, there’s a crystal out there with your name on it. So, grab your sage, light up those candles, and let’s dive into the magical world of crystals

First things first: Identify what you feel you’re missing before looking into what the stones can provide you. This will help you determine what’s happening within yourself before depending on outside sources.

From there, just let your intuition choose what’s best for you.

Whether a crystal catches your eye or you feel a pull toward one, your inner subconscious can help guide you to the crystal that’s right for you.

Once it’s picked out, you can create the connection you need.

How to Choose the Right Type of Healing Crystal

Navigating the crystal maze can be a bit overwhelming, but fear not! I've got three top-notch methods to help you shortlist your sparkly friends – and for those just starting their crystal journey, "Method #1" is your golden ticket.

Method #1: Follow Your Heart (Or Gut, Or Any Other Intuitive Body Part)

Choosing a healing crystal is a piece of cake when you let your inner desires lead the way. Just pinpoint what part of your life could use a magical boost, and snag a crystal that vibes with your goal.

Crystals are like little life coaches for your energy field, each with their own specialty. Whether you're on a quest for enlightenment, need an energetic shield, or just want to feel like a million bucks, there's a stone for that.

Got your goal in mind? Great! Now, hop over to my crystal compendium where I spill the beans on which gems are the MVPs for your aspirations. And don't miss my pro tips on giving your crystals the VIP treatment they deserve.

But hey, if you're as clueless about your intentions as a cat in a dog park, no worries – I've got a couple more tricks up my sleeve.

Method #2: Picking a Crystal That Vibes With Your Chakra

Think of Chakras as the spiritual equivalent of spinning disco balls. When they're grooving, so are you, but if they hit a snag, it's trouble in paradise. Crystals are like the DJ that gets the party—and your Chakras—back on track.

Imagine the seven main Chakras doing the conga line from your spine to the top of your noggin. They're buddies with your nervous system and vital organs, not to mention they're in cahoots with your mental, emotional, and spiritual mojo.

Each Chakra sports a different hue and rocks its own gemstone entourage. Find out which Chakra is throwing a tantrum, and you can pick the crystal sidekick that'll calm it down.

1. Roll out the spiritual red carpet for the Base Chakra, the root of all earthly vibes and your personal bodyguard, stationed at the base of your spine. It's all about survival and security, like a cosmic insurance policy. The crystal entourage includes the mighty black tourmaline, bloodstone, red jasper, and hematite.
2. Next up, the Sacral Chakra, glowing orange like a sunset in Ibiza, is your go-to for creative juices and pleasure central, nestled just below the belly button. It's the VIP section for your emotions and sexuality. The guest list features carnelian, amber, orange calcite, and sunstone.
3. The Solar Plexus, a sunny yellow beacon of personal power, is like your inner CEO, pushing for that self-confidence and authenticity. Located just below the breastbone, it's where your gut feelings hold board meetings with crystals like Citrine, rutilated quartz, pyrite, and yellow jasper.
4. The Heart Chakra, a mix of green and pink, is where love and compassion throw an endless party. Positioned in the chest's center, it's the bridge between the physical and spiritual, with rose quartz, emerald, green aventurine, and green jade spreading the love.
5. The Throat Chakra, sky blue and the megaphone of the soul, sits at the neck's base, ensuring your voice is heard in the universe. It's the spiritual soapbox for crystals like turquoise, aquamarine, lapis lazuli, and blue apatite.
6. The Third Eye Chakra, in a deep shade of indigo, is the command center for intuition and your inner psychic hotline. It's all about the mind's eye, with purple fluorite, amethyst, shungite, and labradorite dialling up the mystic vibes.
7. And finally, the Crown Chakra, the VIP lounge of the spiritual world, where the dress code is pure light and enlightenment is the cocktail of choice. Stay tuned for the full reveal of this mystical marvel.

Method #3: Match a Crystal to Your Star Sign Shenanigans

Got a birthday? Of course, you do! And with that comes your very own star sign, one of the twelve zodiac buddies in the cosmic playground. If you're not chasing a particular vibe and just want to see what the universe has in store, snagging a crystal that jives with your zodiac sign is the way to go.

1. Aries (March 21 – April 19) – Aries folks are the go-getters, the movers and shakers of the zodiac. They're as ambitious as a squirrel before winter. Their crystal posse includes the fiery carnelian, the warrior's bloodstone, chill green jasper, and sunny citrine. Dive into the full monty of Aries-approved crystals here.
2. Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – Taureans are as steady as a rock and love a good routine. They're the loyal BFFs of the zodiac. Their crystal crew? Think luxurious jade, sparkly dioptase, lush malachite, and warm amber. Get the scoop on Taurus' top rocks here.
3. Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – Gemini peeps are the social butterflies, flitting from one conversation to the next. They're as adaptable as an octopus in a game of Twister. Their gem gang includes the zen howlite, banded agate, sky-blue celestite, and spotty dalmatian stone. Peek at Gemini's gem gems here.
4. Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – Cancers are the zodiac's caregivers, always ready with a comforting hug. They're as nurturing as a mother hen. Their stone squad vibes with emerald, pearl, moonstone, and red jasper. Check out Cancer's crystal collection here.
5. Leo (July 23 – August 22) – Leos are the life of the party, radiating confidence like a disco ball. They're as bold as a lion, naturally. Their rock roster includes the dramatic onyx, bold carnelian, shiny pyrite, and regal golden topaz. Leap over to Leo's lion's share of crystals here.
6. Virgo (August 23 – September 22) – Virgos are the zodiac's helpers, always ready to lend a hand or a green thumb. Their crystal companions are blue tourmaline, peridot, green jade, and moss agate.
7. Libra (September 23 – October 22) – Librans are the artists and intellectuals, always ready for a lively debate or a paint-off. They're as balanced as a tightrope walker. Their stone selection includes thoughtful sodalite, peridot, colourful tourmaline, and opal. For a deeper dive, check out the Libra crystal guide here.
8. Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) – Scorpios are the intense ones, with a passion that can either warm you like a blanket or burn like hot sauce. They're as mysterious as a locked diary. Their crystal choices are as deep and intriguing as they are. Stay tuned for more on Scorpio's stones!
9. Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) – Sagittarians are sociable, optimistic and love travel. Stones that align with their energy include sodalite, turquoise, tiger’s eye and topaz. To learn more, read my article about crystals for Sagittarius.
10. Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – People in this star sign are ambitious, strong willed and self-disciplined. Some of the crystals that resonate with Capricorn are garnet, fluorite, and malachite. To learn more, read my guide to crystals for Capricorn.
11. Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) – Aquarians like the truth in all things and are very independent. Stones that align with the Aquarian nature are garnet, amethyst, opal and turquoise. To learn more, read my guide to the best crystals for Aquarius.
12. Pisces (February 19 – March 20) – Pisceans put their friends before themselves and care about achieving goals and fulfilling their dreams. Some of the stones that resonate with Pisces are angelite, aquamarine, sapphire and amethyst. To learn more, read my guide to crystals for Pisces.

How to Choose the Exact Crystal for your Purpose

Deciding on the perfect stone is a bit like choosing a favorite ice cream flavor—trust your gut! There's no right or wrong pick, just go with what gives you the good vibes. Remember, there's no such thing as a 'bad' crystal choice. Each gemstone is like a snowflake, unique in its structure and energy—so whichever one you choose, it's all groovy. It's all about finding that one crystal that sings in harmony with your own energy tune.

How to Know You’ve Found the Right Crystal

If you experience a powerful tingling sensation while holding a crystal, that's a clear sign – purchase that crystal! However, if you're new to crystals or uncertain about your choice, here are some tips to guide you.

Feel the energy emanating from the crystal as you hold it or view its image.

Does it bring tranquillity or a sense of knowing?

Does it spark excitement or a feeling of potential?

Physical sensations like warmth or tingling, or any positive emotions, suggest it's the right choice.

In a crystal shop, handle different crystals and observe your reactions. If you're repeatedly drawn to a crystal you've set aside, it's likely the one meant for you.

You might also find it hard to put a particular crystal down. Pay attention to where your gaze naturally falls when you first view a selection or a photo; this can lead you to the ideal crystal.

Avoid choosing based solely on size, shape, cost, colour, or lustre – these are secondary considerations. Often, the most unexpected crystal will resonate with you the most.

Additional tips include closing your eyes to let your senses take over, thus allowing your intuition to guide you. Set a clear intention before visiting a shop or browsing online. This can be done in various ways, such as calling upon an angel or consulting your higher self.

When you discover the perfect crystal, its positive energy will captivate you, even if it wasn't your initial choice. For a more in-depth approach, you can employ a pendulum to select the right crystal. Remember, don't overthink the process of choosing a crystal.

There's no wrong choice, so enjoy the journey.

Internet Vs. Buying in Person

Shopping for gemstones has its ups and downs, whether online or in-person. There's no definitive best method; it's all about what suits your situation best.

Online shopping offers a vast selection of spiritual shops, each stocked with a variety of crystals, including those rare gems that are tough to stumble upon in person.

While you can't physically touch a crystal when purchasing through the web, you can still make an intuitive choice based on pictures.

However, a picture might not fully capture the true essence, color, or size of the crystal that arrives. Chances are, you'll get a stone similar to the one in the image, not the exact one. That's why it's crucial to shop from reputable stores known for their quality.

On the flip side, buying in person allows for a tactile experience. You get the exact stone that calls to you, simplifying the selection process. Plus, you can take it home immediately and start your work with it.

The drawback? Brick-and-mortar stores, spiritual fairs, and street vendors can't match the extensive inventory of online shops. For those on the hunt for rare or unique crystals, browsing online might be the way to go.

Summary

Diving into the crystal craze is like opening a treasure chest of spiritual bling and emotional bandaids. 

But let's be real – it's a jungle out there for newbies.

Kick off your crystal quest by setting your sights on what you want. Are you looking for love, wealth, or maybe just some good vibes?

With your goal in mind, you can whip up a list of sparkly candidates faster than you can say "quartz". Then, hit up every nook and cranny from online bazaars to street stalls to find that gem that sings to your soul.

Remember, it's not about snagging the shiniest stone. It's about the rock that winks at you. And hey, if the stars align, one might just land in your lap as a present.

Trust your gut, relish the hunt, and when you've bagged your stone, check out my guide on how to welcome a new crystal into your life.