If you’re anything like me whenever you spot an interesting rock, it’s destined to make its way into your pocket. I have clear glass jars filled with these found treasures, each one sparking memories of where it was discovered. My shop is filled with crystals and little signs with the science and the alchemy explained. When friends bring me rocks from their travels, I dive into the geology of their origins, adding another layer of meaning to each stone.
As a trained geologist with a master’s degree, I have found it very hard to buy into the healing properties of crystals. My science mind just isn’t wired like that. What I do know from experience is that when you hold an intention and use something to symbolize that intention, things do happen. When you tie your mind to a desired outcome, there’s an energy exchange that opens you up to possibilities.
I’ve developed a personal belief system around crystals, blending both scientific facts and a touch of mysticism. Rocks and minerals are shaped by intense processes — hydrothermal activity, heat and pressure — that leave their mark on each one down to its very chemical composition. In a way, their journey to existence is embedded, much like ours is in us. It’s a deeply personal practice, unique to each of us. As a friend who creates jewelry with crystals beautifully named her company, “Whatever Heals You.”
The science
I have a pet peeve when people call everything they see a “rock.” So here’s the difference. Minerals (most commonly called “crystals”) are the building blocks of rocks. Minerals are inorganic, have a chemical composition of one or more elements, and a defined crystal structure. Rocks are made of minerals. For example,the igneous rock granite is made up of quartz, mica and feldspar minerals. There are organic rocks like coal and some types of limestones and shales — some evaporite rocks can be made of one mineral such as halite, but that’s for another article.
There are four main ways minerals can form. One way is when magma or lava cools, crystals form from the elements within that molten liquid. The slower the rate of cooling, the larger the crystal. Crystals can also form from water that is supersaturated in dissolved minerals such as gypsum and halite. Minerals contained in rocks that undergo intense heat and pressure change from metamorphic (mountain building) activity can transform into other minerals. Lastly, hydrothermal activity deep within the earth can deposit minerals in cracks and cavities in the rocks the hot water flows through.
For those who want to begin their own collection, here are three of my favorite crystals you should start with:
- Black tourmaline: This three-sided prismatic mineral is most often found in granite pegmatites and metamorphic rocks. The largest crystals are deposited by hydrothermal fluids in cavities and fractures. Black tourmaline is often used for grounding and protection. It is said to aid in the understanding of oneself and others. It is also known as a great protector from negative self talk and the dark energy of others.
- Selenite: This mineral is a clear or translucent form of gypsum which most commonly forms through the evaporation of saline water in arid environments. Selenite is known for expanding spiritual awareness and accessing higher consciousness, making it useful for meditation. This mineral is said to possess powerful cleansing properties that can clear negative energies and purify your aura.
- Tiger’s Eye: This mineral is made during a complex metamorphic process when heat and pressure causes silica-rich fluids to flow through and replace another mineral (crocidolite/blue asbestos) with quartz. The original fibrous structure is maintained, giving Tiger’s Eye its characteristic cat’s eye appearance. It is said to aid in focusing the mind and promoting mental clarity for problem-solving. It assists in grounding one’s emotions during times of stress and uncertainty — particularly during fight or flight — bringing a sense of calm and stability while moving forward.
Toni Reale is the owner of Roadside Blooms, a flower, crystal and plant shop at 4491 Durant Ave., North Charleston. Online at roadsideblooms.com.
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