Crystals
Crystals and precious gemstones, being of the earth, are as old as our mother planet herself. Some crystals have been scientifically dated as far back as the megalithic era and recent archaeological evidence from Egypt shows that diamonds were used to cut stone as long ago as 4000 BC. Their powers of healing were known to many ancient civilisations, including the Aztecs, Mayans and Ancient Egyptians. Today, people all over the world still recognise the value of crystals and gemstones. They are used in healing by many American Indians, by people in China, Tibet and India. Closer to home there has been increasing interest in the healing properties of crystals during recent years, whether this is self-healing, healing for others or in some cases, absent healing. Crystals and gemstones are also becoming more widely recognised as a valuable tool for enhancing spiritual, emotional and physical well being; all facets of crystal power that were well known among the people of ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians, Lemurians and, some say, even the Atlanteans.
The ancients understood that the vibrationary forces of different crystals and stones bore a significant correlation to those in the human body and they based their choice of different stones for various healing purposes on this theory. Fabled beauties such as Cleopatra used precious gems in order to enhance their loveliness. Mother of pearl was rubbed on the skin to make it sparkle, rubies and garnets were used to stimulate the cells, while coral was a favourite for improving circulation, and an emerald held under the tongue was believed to sharpen the mind and quicken the wits. While these practises may not be any more advisable than they are practicable, modern day women (and men) can benefit from taking gemstone elixirs or indulging in a crystal based massage - either with a partner or by oneself with a gemstone body oil. The knowledge passed down from ancient times and rediscovered by modern science is put to good use today by men and women from all walks of life.
Cleopatra may be long gone, but a large number of today's celebrities still recognise the value of incorporating crystals and gems into their lives. Women such as Elizabeth Taylor, Shirley MacLaine, Goldie Hawn and many celebrity models use crystals to enhance their lives and the men don't miss out either, as Richard Gere, Simon le Bon and others would testify.
So how can crystals and gems help you improve the quality of your life? How can you benefit physically and spiritually from these treasures of the earth? On these pages you can read about the different qualities associated with a number of crystals and gemstones that are quite readily available, and do not cost the earth. You can also learn some simple methods of choosing and preparing your crystal for its intended purpose.
Check out the remedy list to see what crystals will be of the most immediate benefit to you where there is a specific problem that needs help. It's important to bear in mind however, the difference between healing and curing. Healing helps the body and mind to become stronger and consequently more healthy, and as with many forms of healing, crystal healing treats the person as a whole as opposed to treating the symptom as a separate entity. Curing is the restoration of physical health achieved most often by treating the symptom rather than the individual, but nonetheless if you have an ongoing health problem you should consult your doctor. Complementary healing is precisely what it says - it is meant to complement, not replace advice from a medically qualified professional. Getting to know crystals and gemstones can be extremely rewarding however; they will enhance the quality of your life spiritually and emotionally as well as physically.
