Crystal Guide
Crystals
Start with the material: which mineral is it, has it been treated and how should it be cleaned? Then explore symbolism and zodiac or chakra associations.
Updated
Explore the stones
Amethyst
Quartz · SiO₂Amethyst is the violet variety of quartz. Spiritual practices associate it with contemplation and intuition. Appropriate storage and cleaning help preserve its color and condition.
Black tourmaline
Tourmaline group · schorlBlack tourmaline, commonly schorl, is known for its dark color and longitudinal crystal striations. Esoteric symbolism connects it with grounding and personal boundaries.
Citrine
Quartz · SiO₂Citrine is the yellow-to-orange variety of quartz. Its symbolism often concerns well-being and confidence. When buying it, the origin of the color and any treatment matter.
Clear quartz
Quartz · SiO₂Clear quartz is colorless transparent quartz. Its transparency makes it a useful image of clarity and attention in personal spiritual practices.
Rose quartz
Quartz · SiO₂Rose quartz is the pink variety of quartz. Its symbolic associations include love and gentleness. As a physical object, it needs gemstone care and attention to any jewelry setting.
Selenite
Gypsum · CaSO₄·2H₂OSelenite is a transparent crystalline variety of gypsum and is much softer than quartz. White fibrous wands often sold under the same name are commonly satin spar.
Crystals, zodiac signs and horoscopes
The zodiac links in the entries lead to information about each sign. A stone’s symbolic association is separate from an astrological forecast.
For a current forecast, see the daily horoscope. For the positions of planets at birth, use a natal chart.
Frequently asked questions
How do mineral properties differ from symbolism?
Hardness, chemical composition and structure are mineral properties. Love, protection and intuition are attributed meanings in spiritual practices. The two kinds of information answer different questions.
How do I choose a crystal for my zodiac sign?
Use your sign as a symbolic starting point if you enjoy that approach. There is no single table shared by every tradition. Material, treatments, comfort and personal taste also matter.
Can every crystal be washed with water?
No. The method depends on the mineral, treatments and setting. Choose dry cleaning for gypsum specimens such as selenite. Individual entries provide guidance and sources.
Are selenite and satin spar the same?
Both are varieties of gypsum, but transparent tabular selenite differs from white fibrous satin spar. The latter is often sold under the general label selenite.
What does charging a crystal mean?
In ritual practice, it is an act linking a stone to an intention or new period. It is not measurable charging like a battery and does not replace physical cleaning.
Do healing stones treat illness?
A commercial or esoteric name does not establish a therapeutic effect. Use stones as jewelry, collectibles or personal symbols; discuss health symptoms with a medical professional.
Sources and further reading
Each entry includes sources for its specific material and practical limitations.