Healing Crystals: A Guide for Beginners
beginners
14 min read
Healing Crystals: A Guide for Beginners

When you are just starting to work with the energy of crystals, it can all feel quite overwhelming. What stones should you work with? Where do you begin? How do crystals have energy? What are healing crystals and what do they do? How do you get the most out of your energy crystals? This Beginner’s Guide to Healing Crystals gives you the answers to all of your crystal questions so you can get started with your new energy tools.

Created over the millennia, healing crystals harness the life-giving elements of the Earth and the Universe. Harnessing the energy of the Sun, the Moon, and the oceans, semi-precious stones connect us to universal energy as soon as we come into contact with them. Many people wonder if crystals have healing powers, and while there are many anecdotes describing the curative effects of crystals and healing stones, crystal energy works differently on everyone depending on how receptive you are.

While the Energy Muse healing crystal chart includes helpful insights, it is equally as important that you make a conscious effort to open your heart and mind to the power of crystal healing when working with these stones. Once you begin to unlock the unique power of crystals, your crystal healing journey will be studded with beautiful, mysterious, and unique crystals that will rock your world. Using our healing crystals guide for insight, you can tap into a limitless resource for spiritual, emotional, and energetic healing.

Use this form to download our healing crystals guide for beginners, including the best healing stones to add to your collection!


What can crystals do for me?

Think of your crystal as an ally on your journey, helping you to reach your goals and make positive changes in all areas of your life. Use the Energy Muse crystal guide with healing stones for manifesting your intentions and what you want to create in your life. These powerfully charged stones connect us to the energies we want to embody because they are tangible, physical forms that have powerful vibrations. This energy continues to connect with you when you wear these intention crystals close to the skin or place them in your environment. With every thought and intention, these crystals pick up on your unique vibrational energy and amplify the positive vibes that you’re cultivating. 

In this magical world of vibrations, crystal energy helps you on your spiritual journey because it works to hold your intention and send it out into the universe. A thoughtful and meaningful intention is the starting point for working with healing crystals because the intention acts as the “job” you give to your crystal, allowing its energy to work for you.

How do crystals work?

At its core, the power of crystal healing is that each crystal carries a unique vibration. As Albert Einstein is reported to have said, everything in life is vibration. The vibrations that these energy crystals hold can realign and re-calibrate your energy with theirs, helping you to raise your vibration and reach a higher state of being.

One of the first pieces of scientific evidence relating to the power of crystals is the work done by IBM scientist Marcel Vogel. While watching crystals grow under a microscope, he noticed that their shape took the form of whatever he was thinking about. He hypothesized that these vibrations are the result of the constant assembling and disassembling of bonds between molecules. He also tested the metaphysical power of Clear Quartz and proved that rocks can store thoughts similar to how tapes use magnetic energy to record sound.

Due to their structure and composition, crystals emit vibrations at a constant frequency, meaning that their vibrations do not change. This is especially powerful because when a crystal comes into contact with a lower vibration, it raises the vibration of that person or thing to match its own. When a crystal comes into contact with your body or your energy, it attunes you to its higher frequency, which allows you to move past mental, physical and spiritual blockages. This boost of positive and uplifting energy can be the difference between darkness and light. 

The crystal works with your intentions in a similar way. Holding strong and positive energy, the crystal amplifies and magnifies the energy of your intention so you can manifest faster and more effectively.

At every moment, we have the ability to choose our thoughts and as we continue our journey, each day presents us with new challenges and wonderful beginnings. Healing crystals remind us to quiet the chatter of the mind and reconnect to the universally healing vibrations of the Earth. An important lesson to learn from crystals is patience, because just like the eons of time it took for these semi-precious stones to evolve and transform, working with the healing power of crystals also takes time. As you learn, grow, and evolve, use crystals as a reminder to be grateful for the abundance of Mother Nature and the great mysteries of the universe.

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What are crystals used for?

Whether you are looking to enhance a specific area of your life, like your love life or professional life, or you are looking to let go of something that’s holding you back like fear or stress, crystals can be your support system and your tangible connection to that goal. They provide you with a touchpoint: something to come back to whenever you need a reminder or want to reconnect with your goal. No matter what you are working on, crystals can be used as an ally or a tool to help you get there faster. 

If you have difficulty letting go of old ideas that are no longer serving you, Black Tourmaline is a powerful gemstone for releasing unwanted patterns that may have turned into bad habits. It helps release all the negative energy in your body and within your energy field. This stone also serves as a talisman for protection, which is essential if you’re the type of person that easily picks up on other people’s energy. Hematite is great for deflecting the negative moods of others by grounding you and reconnecting your spirit to the energy of the Earth.

If you’re seeking more tranquility and calm in your life, Amethyst is one of the best intention crystals for relieving stress and bringing balance back into your life. Another gemstone that helps balance out emotions is Moonstone, which gives you support when you’re feeling overly emotional or out of touch with your feelings. Rose quartz is also helpful for emotional well-being because it opens and realigns the heart chakra, which magnifies feelings of self-love and the unconditional love of others.

Whether you’re seeking out crystals for their physical healing or to bring peace and tranquility into your life, they all work to increase your vibrational frequency. If you feel good when you hold the crystal in your hand or have it touching your skin, or even if you don’t feel the immediate effects of your stone, know that the crystals are emitting positive vibrations to help you up-level and grow.

Explore All Crystal Meanings & Benefits

What is an intention?

Thoughts create vibrations throughout the universe, which makes setting intentions a powerful tool for achieving happiness and well-being. Having a clear purpose provides us with insight into our aspirations, dreams, and values. It also helps us live in the present moment instead of being caught in negative thought patterns. Intentions are like magnets. They attract what will make them come true. Setting an intention is a powerful tool for achieving happiness. Crafting an intention starts by setting goals that align with your values, aspirations, and purpose.

  1. Decide what matters to you. Your values drive the actions in your life, and you’ll need to recognize what truly matters to you if you want to find fulfillment.
  2. Explore areas of your life that need an upgrade. Consider how you can improve your relationships, career, social life, spirituality, health, and community.
  3. Be specific about what you want to achieve, when you want to achieve it, and why.
  4. Bring your intentions to life. Certain rituals in the following chapters will ask you to write your intentions down. Make sure you write them in the present tense, as if they’re happening now, and affirm only what you want. You should also write down your goal, the end result of what you wish to manifest. Put feeling into it!

Shop Crystals by Intention


    I have my crystal. Now what do I do?

    One of the most important, and often overlooked, steps in learning what to do with crystals for health, balance, abundance, or any other goal is setting your intention or programming your crystal. In our own words, you have to give your crystal a job and a purpose! Crystals want to work for you, but you have to tell them what to do. In the moments when you’re vibrating at a lower frequency, your intentions can fly out the window. When you reconnect with your programmed crystal, it will help you remember your goals and limitless potential.

    Programming your crystal is simple. The first step is to cleanse your crystal. You can choose your preferred method of clearing, and what resonates with you the most. Here are some of our favorite ways to cleanse and clear the energy of your stones: 

    • Sun/Moon: Place your crystal out under the light of the sun or the full moon for at least 4 hours. 
    • Sound: Download and play the music of Tibetan singing bowls, the Om mantra, or Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. You can also use our free clearing playlist of high-vibrational music. 
    • Smoke: Immerse your crystal in the smoke of a burning sage stick, Frankincense resin, or Copal incense.
    • Earth: Bury your crystal in the Earth and allow it to become recharged with Earth energy. 
    • Other crystals: Place them on top of a Selenite plate or in a Selenite Bowl  to clear and cleanse any stuck energy.

    After cleansing, hold your crystal or crystals in your hands, close your eyes, and take three deep breaths. Then, while in this space of love and light, ask that your crystal be cleared of all unwanted energy or previous programming.

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    How to use healing crystals with a positive mantra?

    Aloud or in your head, say: “I ask that the highest vibration of love and light connect with my highest self to clear all unwanted energy or any previous programming. I activate this crystal. I command this crystal to hold the intention of . . .” To finish the sentence, add your intention for your crystal—an energy and goal that you wish it to hold for you. Repeat your intention three times, and end by repeating “thank you” three times. By saying it three times, you emphasize that what you’re asking for already exists in the universe.


    The Energy Muse Healing Crystals Guide: What are the 10 crystals all beginner's need?

    If you’re just beginning to use crystals, our healing crystals guide includes 10 powerful and essential intention crystals for encouraging balance, harmony, and peace of mind. How do crystals work? Here's how:

    Clear Quartz and How to Use it

    If you're wondering, 'what are crystals used for?', one of the best stones for beginners to collect is Clear quartz. This crystal further amplifies your intention, which makes it an essential component of any crystal collection. It is also the most versatile stone because it magnifies the vibrations of stones that surround it. In fact, clear quartz crystals are often used to cleanse and re-energize crystals. This is because of its powerful cleansing effects and the ability to counteract negative energy blockages.

    The energy of this stone not only clears your own energy field but also helps you get crystal-clear on what you want and how to achieve it, allowing you to manifest like never before. Learn more about Clear Quartz Benefits >

    Sit quietly with the stone and feel its white light fill your body with positive energy. Use the following crystal intention for Clear Quartz: I am crystal clear.

    Selenite and How to Use it

    Selenite is another powerful cleansing stone because it ensures a positive flow of vibrations between you and other rocks in your collection, which makes it an ideal crystal for beginners. This crystal cleanses and purifies your energy, your other stones, and your environment so everything is vibrating at the highest frequency.

    Quickly remove negative energy from the body and clear the aura around you by moving Selenite down the body from the top of your head to your feet. Repeat this cleansing ritual until you feel completely rejuvenated with positive vibrations. Afterward, you’ll have a restored sense of balance and the protection of a white light that connects you to the universe. Use the following crystal intention for Selenite: I am cleansed. 

    Learn more about Selenite Benefits >

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    Shungite and How to Use it

    One of the rarest stones on Earth, shungite contains antioxidants, which makes it one of the best crystals for healing, including protection from negative energies that are harmful to the body. It’s one of the best stones for detoxification of the mind, body, and spirit. Shungite is also our go-to stone for protection from EMFs, or electromagnetic fields, from technology and electronics. These crystal healing stones have powerful effects on the body, so it’s best to introduce them slowly.

    Place a piece of Shungite next to your computer, wi-fi hub, or any other electronics in your home. We also recommend placing a piece of Shungite on your cell phone to diminish the effects of EMFs. Use the following intention for Shungite: I am detoxified.

    Learn more about Shungite Benefits >

    Amethyst and How to Use it

    Known for its powerful spiritual properties, Amethyst is an ideal stone to place around the home as décor both because of its aesthetic beauty and healing properties. Amethyst crystal is one of the most powerful stones for boosting intuition and connection to self, as well as creating a peaceful and relaxing environment to soothe away stress, worry, or tension.

    While focusing on your intention, meditate with Amethyst to connect with your inner peace and calm. This stone also works well as a complementary healing tool in yoga and meditation. Use the following crystal intention for Amethyst: I am at peace.

    Learn more about Amethyst Benefits >

    Black Tourmaline and How to Use it

    One of the most powerful stones for protection, Black Tourmaline acts as your energy bodyguard to create an energetic boundary and protect you from unwanted energy. These power crystals work by absorbing the lower vibrational energy around you so you do not take the hit. 

    Place Black Tourmaline on either side of your front door or carry it with you to keep its protective energy nearby and keep bad vibes at bay. Use the following crystal intention for Black Tourmaline: I am protected.

    Learn more about Black Tourmaline Benefits >

    Carnelian and How to Use it

    The vibrant colors within the Carnelian crystal are a perfect representation of this stone’s fiery and vibrant energy. As one of the best stones for igniting passion and tapping into your creative nature, Carnelian gives you the confidence to break through energetic blocks. It inspires you to take action toward your creative pursuits.  

    When you need a boost of vitality and energy, connect with your Carnelian by placing it nearby or in your pocket. Use the following crystal intention for Carnelian: I unlock my creative potential.

    Learn more about Carnelian Benefits >

    Rose Quartz and How to Use it

    The soft and gentle energy of Rose Quartz is perfect for connecting with and opening your heart. When it comes to relationships, Rose Quartz can support the love of all kinds – friendship, family, romantic partners, and even self-love. 

    Place Rose Quartz over your heart to infuse this energy center with comforting vibrations. Use the following crystal intention for Rose Quartz: I am love.

    Learn more about Rose Quartz Benefits >

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    Pyrite and How to Use it

    Even just looking at the golden shimmer of the Pyrite crystal fills you with the energy of wealth and success. This crystal aligns you with the energy of abundance to invite in wealth, good luck, and new opportunities, making it the ideal stone for any intentions related to financial or career success. 

    Place Pyrite in your wallet or on your workspace and use the following crystal intention for Pyrite: I am a money magnet. 

    Learn more about Pyrite Benefits >

    Citrine and How to Use it

    A stone that harnesses the power of the sun, Citrine is infused with light and positive energy. These good energy crystals help raise your vibration and fill you with happiness. Considered one of the most powerful stones for manifestation, citrine helps make your intentions a reality by guiding you to direct positive energy out into the universe.

    Place a citrine stone on top of a list of your intentions to manifest them into reality much faster and fill your entire being with positive energy. Use the following crystal intention for Citrine: I am light.

    Learn more about Citrine Benefits >

    Blue Apatite and How to Use it

    Blue Apatite is an inspiring crystal that awakens new ambitions and motivates you to take action, especially when it comes to your health and well-being. If you are on a journey to improve your mental, physical or emotional wellness, connect with your Blue Apatite stone to stay on track with your goals.

    Place Blue Apatite in your space or carry it with you throughout the day. Use the following crystal intention for Blue Apatite: I prioritize my health.

    Learn more about Blue Apatite Benefits >

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    Crystal Couples for Every Intention

    Along with these 10 starter crystals for your beginner collection, go even deeper on your spiritual healing journey when you combine certain crystals for different intentions. If you're wondering how to use crystals for the most effective healing on your spiritual journey, part of the Energy Muse healing crystals guide includes the best pairings to maximize the synergistic power of their complementary properties. 

    Amethyst and Rose Quartz to deepen the love for yourself and others

    Also included in our healing crystals guide as part of the beginner starter set, Amethyst and Rose Quartz are a wonderful combination for healing the heart and bringing peace of mind. When used together, these crystal healing rocks have a synergistic effect that opens the heart to unconditional love while soothing the mind with peaceful and relaxing vibes. Knowing how to use crystals like this powerful yet gentle pairing starts with setting an intention for unconditional love. Then, place Amethyst over your third eye chakra and a Rose Quartz over your heart. Meditate with these stones for 6 minutes or more, allowing the energy of love to fill your mind, body, and spirit.

    Black Tourmaline and Selenite to clear your energy

    Another part of the Energy Muse healing crystal guide includes grounding and clearing techniques like working with Black Tourmaline and Selenite, a wonderful crystal pairing for energetic cleansing and protection. When you need a powerful recharge of your chakras, the Black Tourmaline helps you release any negative emotions that might be weighing you down. Once this darkness is released from your system, the Selenite fills your energy with the purest light. This releasing and replenishing of your energy with Selenite and Black Tourmaline is perfect for a daily energy-clearing or deeper therapeutic session.

    Carnelian and Rhodochrosite to boost creativity

    In this crystal guide for healing combinations, you can use this pairing to unleash hidden creative talents and ideas. A powerful heart chakra stone, the Rhodochrosite helps you get out of your head so you can connect on a deeper level with your heart. While the Rhodochrosite meaning gives you the ability to be vulnerable, Carnelian ignites the fiery cauldron that holds your creative nature, reawakening your sense of passion. 

    Citrine and Aventurine to enhance life force energy

    Another powerful pairing in the Energy Muse beginner's guide to crystals are Citrine and Aventurine, which supports and boosts your life force energy by infusing your chakras with vitality. Representing the sun and the earth with their yellow and green hues, this powerful crystal combination brings the revitalizing energy of nature into your life. One way to use this crystal couple is with a healing grid over your chakras, an important part of our best healing crystals guide. Place a piece of Citrine on your sacral chakra below your navel and Aventurine on your heart chakra over the chest. Then feel their healing properties infuse your mind, body, and spirit with a flow of fresh energy. 

    Ready to start your crystal journey? Get all 10 of these healing crystals plus sage in our Crystal Starter Set

    Heather Askinosie
    Heather Askinosie is a crystal expert and leading influencer on the power of crystals, Feng Shui and holistic healing. For nearly 30 years, she has been researching the scientific and spiritual aspects of energy. After studying with the best healers from all over the world, she has used the past three decades of her career to translate ancient wisdom into simple tools that anyone can use to transform their life. In 2000, she co-founded Energy Muse with business partner, Timmi Jandro. Energy Muse provides tools of empowerment and inspiration in the tangible form of jewelry and crystals. Her crystal teachings can be found in her book Crystal Muse: Everyday Rituals to Tune into the Real You as well as mindbodygreen, Well+Good, The Chalkboard Mag, and more. Learn more about Heather at energymuse.com.

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