Introduction to Crystals and Their Unique Properties
You might recognize crystals as the sparkling collection of stones that convey healing into our lives. Yet, at an elementary level, crystals are solid substances made up of molecules that organize themselves in an ordered manner. This means that the molecules maintain a repetitive pattern, which, in turn, bestows upon the crystal its form, hue, and metaphysical characteristics. Crystals are a wondrous gift from nature. Whether we utilize them in the forms of spiritual healing, jewelry, or modern technology, they are endlessly fascinating. And for all their enchanting properties, a few fun facts about them underscore their uniqueness.
The Formation of Crystals
Crystals are frequently created deep within the Earth’s crust. Their birth often occurs when heated liquids cool down and solidify. For instance, when magma cools, it can give rise to diamonds, quartz, and other types of crystals found in volcanic rocks. Even the large salt crystals found in some deserts likely began forming in a similar fashion. Both salt and ice crystals are examples of crystals that form when “solutions” (saltwater, in the case of salt, and water vapor, in the case of ice) are allowed to cool down and evaporate. In each case, the materials first tried to form an amorphous solid (one with no organized structure) before coming to their senses and forming a crystal instead.
Product Recommendation: Natural Quartz Crystals
Juna Crystal carries an array of natural quartz crystals, which can easily complement your home or spiritual practices.
The Appearance of Crystal Structures: The Six Main Crystal Systems
Crystals can be grouped into six principal geometric systems based on their atomic structures. These systems influence not only the geometric form of the crystals—family resemblance amongst the members of each system clearly shows in the shape, size, and angles of any given crystal—but also their so-called “external properties.” External properties encompass anything that can be observed without the aid of special instruments. For the cubic or isometric system, consider diamonds and fluorite.
Exploring the Hexagonal and Tetragonal Crystal Families
Amethyst and hexagonal quartz crystals belong to the hexagonal family of crystals. Crystals that belong to the hexagonal system share six-sided symmetry and often tend to form elongated hexagonal prisms. Zircon, in its tetragonal form, belongs to the same family. Crystals that are tetragonal share some fundamental features with cubic crystals. They have a long axis that is twice as long as each of the short axes.
The Triclinic and Monoclinic Crystal Systems
Turquoise and kyanite are triclinic. In the triclinic system, crystals have unequal, unsymmetrical axes, which give them the least symmetry. The next-step-up from triclinic is monoclinic. Gypsum and malachite are two monoclinic minerals. They have unsymmetrical shapes, they are to some extent “hacked off,” with two axes that meet at an angle less than 90 degrees.
Orthorhombic Crystals and the Power of Amethyst
Topaz that occurs in an orthorhombic crystal system falls under this banner. Orthorhombic crystals are defined by three unequal axes that meet at 90-degree angles, giving way to many shape forms that are either prismatic or tabular. Amethyst: This powerful purple stone makes for a famous crystal because of the calm and spiritual energy it gives off. Amethyst is a hexagonal crystal.
The Allure of Pyrite and Its Crystal System
Crystals of pyrite, which gleam like gold, are often confused with the real thing and go by the moniker “fool’s gold.” They belong to the cubic crystal system, and they are visually striking. If you want to get a better understanding of them or see some impressive specimens, check out Juna Crystal’s collection featuring amethyst and pyrite. Not only is it gorgeous, but the collection also serves as a reminder that a crystal’s appearance and its purported effects can deeply influence what it means to the beholder.
Fun and Fascinating Facts About Crystals
Crystals—They’re Everywhere: Crystals are found everywhere and are a big part of our natural and everyday world. Did you know that even salt and sugar are types of crystals? When water vapors, it leaves behind tiny crystal solids; if you were to magnify salt and sugar grains, you would see shimmering, tiny crystal shapes. These and a multitude of other kinds of crystals are found in nature.
The Unique Beauty of Snowflakes as Crystals
One of nature’s most stunning formations and structures, the snowflake is also one of its most beautiful crystals. Not only is each snowflake an exquisite tiny sculpture, but each is also a one-of-a-kind work of art. This is because, formed high in the atmosphere, every snowflake freezes into a distinct shape that is peculiar to it alone, thanks to the influence of temperature, humidity, and even atmospheric pressure.
The Massive Crystals of Mexico’s Naica Cave
The Deep Earth within Mexico’s Naica Cave holds some of the crystals found on Earth. There, the soaring gypsum can reach a breathtaking 36 feet and a weighty 55 tons. Talk about crystal power. Product suggestion: Of course, you won’t find that kind of size in your run-of-the-mill crystal store. But Juna Crystal’s got you covered for smaller formations that add a radiant energy to your home.
The Metaphysical Power of Crystals for Healing
Crystals for Curing: Crystals arrive endowed with unique energy fields – as does everything in our world. However, because they possess a stable atomic structure, they also show stable energy, which impacts our energy fields directly. For ages, people have turned to crystals for curing ills. In their mind, gemstones like Rose Quartz, Amethyst, or Clear Quartz balance energies, eliminate bad vibes, and fulfill their antique promise of healing on emotional and physical levels.
The Healing Properties of Rose Quartz and Amethyst
Unconditional love is what rose quartz is all about. This sweet pink stone is perfect for pulling in romance and for amping up the amity among family members and friends. Amethyst is a stone for relaxation, sleep, and for the growth of spirituality (if that’s your jam). Many believe it’s one of the top healing crystals.
Chakras and Their Associated Crystals
Chakras and Crystals: It is thought that our bodies contain seven different energy centers that govern our emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness. Each of these centers, called chakras, is associated with a particular crystal that is either placed upon or very near to the chakra. While not all centers have their own dedicated crystal, it’s generally accepted that the rudimentary chakra healing we’re capable of doing can be achieved with just a few commonly known stones.
The Citrine Crystal and the Solar Plexus Chakra
The citrine stone, which is a sunny yellow color, is linked to the solar plexus chakra. The chakra purportedly allows humans to discover their confidence and not just “be” but boldly “do” in the world. If that resonates, you might consider practicing with crystals like citrine. A company called Juna Crystals sells sets of chakra crystals.
The Role of Crystals in Modern Technology
In our daily lives, we encounter the most amazing structures of matter—crystals. Indeed, if you take a close look at any of the most mundane parts of our existence, you will most likely discover that they are composed, at least in part, of crystals. Crystals are nature’s building blocks. Even quartz, the crystal we are closest to and that we understand best, holds a few secrets. Still, when it comes to tech, quartz is the crystal we should revere.
The Use of Quartz in Technology
Apart from keeping time, quartz finds usage in a variety of devices that serve more complex functions. These include microphones, equipment operating on the principle of ultrasound, and GPS systems. Why are these devices, and others like them, based on quartz rather than another material? Primarily for the same reason that quartz is used for timekeeping: quartz’s nearly perfect piezoelectric properties.
The Cultural Significance of Crystals Throughout History
The use of crystals for spiritual and decorative reasons has a long-standing tradition, dating back to Ancient Egypt, Greece, and China, and even further to Native American culture. Amethyst was frequently worn to counteract drunkenness, while Lapis Lazuli was thought by the Egyptians to facilitate communication with the spirits. Jade was treasured in Ancient China and revered as a token of intelligence and opulence. Among Native American cultures, turquoise was not only employed in art and for ornamental reasons but was also central to many religious practices and held in high esteem for its purported ability to shield, empower, and connect its wearers with the heavens and the earth.
Product Recommendation: Historical Stones at Juna Crystal
With Juna Crystal, you can appreciate the exquisite beauty and power of historical stones such as Lapis Lazuli and Amethyst when you view their stunning jewelry collection.
The Absorption of Energy by Crystals
The Crystals Absorb Energy from Their Environment: Crystals are so because they have molecular structures that make them very good at holding and moving energy. When you use a crystal, what you’re really doing is using the energy it’s holding to somehow better your own life. (What’s that you say? You thought using a crystal was all about being in touch with your inner self? Nice try.) Crystals hold the same kind of energy that the stars and planets do, or the energy that Mother Earth does. When you dig down deep into certain kinds of rocks or into sandy soil, you find the kinds of structures that form crystals. The kinds of “gems” that sit in your kids’ Halloween bags after they have gone trick-or-treating are made from the kinds of structures that form crystals.
Tips for Cleansing and Storing Crystals
Keep in mind that when you cleanse delicate crystals, like Amethyst, sunlight is not your friend. Direct, bright sunlight can cause even the toughest of crystal shades to fade, and that topaz-like blue in the Amethyst you hold can lose its vibrancy if left in the sun for too long.
How to Properly Store and Protect Your Crystals
Keeping your crystals in a reverent and private place allows them to maintain their vibrational energies. For the energy that your stones hold to remain intact, consider these stellar storage recommendations: Soft pouches work remarkably well. Dividers and separate drawers are good options too. And who says a crystal grid can’t be used for a great “display and protect” function?
Product Recommendation: Juna Crystal’s Storage Solutions
I recommend the following product: Juna Crystal has beautifully designed storage pouches and tools for cleansing crystals that keep your collection energetically pure.
The Importance of Ethically Sourced Crystals
When you buy crystals, you want to make absolutely sure that you’re getting not only high-quality crystals but also crystals with an ethically sourced backstory. That’s because the last thing any of us would want is to have our crystals somehow linked to negativity or exploitation. And, to be clear, if you’re going to spend money on something for crystal healing, you want to get the maximum energetic benefit. Ethically sourced crystals will deliver on that promise.
Juna Crystal’s Ethical Crystal Collection
Store Recommendation: Juna Crystal carries an extensive selection of crystals that are not only rare, but also ethically sourced. These are crystals that people hold to the highest regard for more than just their beauty. They have real power and a range of potential applications in life.
Explore the Exclusive Crystal Collections at Juna Crystal
Investigate the Crystal Collections at Juna Crystal: Juna Crystal boasts an impressive and extensive assemblage of crystals across the metaphysical spectrum. Its offerings are perfect for anyone looking to add a decoratively magical touch to their space, and they are even more perfect for people who want to channel the true nature of crystals when using them for meditation, protection, and manifestation.
The Fascination of Crystals and Their Scientific and Metaphysical Aspects
The crystal world is captivating. They are beautiful and have magical qualities. Understanding their scientific composition only adds to their enchantment. Crystals have a long and significant history, and the more you know about them, the more factors there are to appreciate.
How Juna Crystal Supports Your Well-Being
In this sense, Juna Crystal is helping us on our journey of well-being. They offer not only transparency in their operation and with the products that they offer but also a curated selection of high-quality crystals that can be a part of our lives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crystals
Frequently asked questions: What makes crystals unique? There are countless unique aspects of crystals, one being their capability to store energy. This is due to their stable atomic structure. It is this stable atomic structure that allows crystals to vibrate in a certain way, which is why they—which we—can work with them in the context of healing.
The Function and Purpose of True Crystals
What is the actual function of true crystals? One of the core tenets of crystal healing is that these valuable stones can harness energy, channel it, and direct it to do their bidding. This means they can, with the help of a healer, direct energy toward a person who has requested assistance in achieving better health, mental clarity, or emotional stability—whatever that person needs at the moment.
The Temperature of Crystals: Warm or Cold?
Do crystals feel cold or warm? Crystals might feel warm or cold, but they often feel cool to the touch before you start working with them. The more time you spend in meditation with your crystal, or using them for intention setting, the more it might feel like a warm hug, as the kiddos say.
