Crystals come in an amazing array of different shapes and sizes, each with their own pros and cons. There’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ crystal (except maybe clear quartz…), so it’s important to understand which shapes work best in different situations.
We’ve already discussed the best way to use various quartz shapes, and their versatility in crystal grids and for healing. In this article we’re going to take a look at tumbled stones and flat stones and discuss when to use them.
How to use tumbled stones
Tumbled stones are great for the beginner collector or crystal enthusiast. These small, rounded crystals are readily available and tend to be fairly cheap. Because of their size, they fit easily into your pocket or under your pillow, so are a useful portable option for crystal lovers. Tumbled stones also work well when making your own crystal elixir or when designing a small crystal grid.
For the serious crystal practitioner, however, tumbled stones have their drawbacks – first and foremost, is their tendency to roll. If you’ve ever tried to place a piece of tumbled sodalite on the third eye chakra, you know exactly what we mean!
When flat stones work better than tumbled stones
If you use body layouts in your crystal healing practice, or even just on yourself, flat stones (aka touch stones or palm stones) are a no-brainer. Their flatter shape means they stay where they’re put, allowing for a deeply relaxing healing experience rather than a frustrating one. Even the rise and fall of the breath won’t knock a flat crystal off the solar plexus!
Flat stones tend to be larger in size so have a comforting weight when placed on the body, without feeling too heavy. They feel wonderfully placed in the hands, especially if they have a thumb groove in them, and can be used on the soles of the feet to ground and draw down energy.
Some of our favourite flat stones to use in a body layout are:
Rose quartz over the heart chakra to encourage forgiveness of yourself and others
Lapis lazuli on the third eye chakra to improve intuition
Smokey quartz on the soles of the feet to ground and stabilise
Or how about a deeply relaxing chakra balancing layout? (See 'Rock On - The crystal healing handbook for spiritual rebels' for more body layouts than you can shake a crystal at!)
So, should you choose flat stones or tumbled stones?
Tumbled stones are a great multipurpose option for many people, but there are situations where they just don’t work. Flat stones have no such drawbacks and work anywhere you can use tumbled stones as well as some situations where tumbled stones don’t fit the bill.
In our Evolve Crystals shop, we stock a large range of high-quality flat stones such as rose quartz, labradorite, chrysocolla, and golden healer. We believe they’re the most versatile option for both professional crystal healers and amateur crystal lovers.
Want to add some flat stones to your crystal collection?
Kate Mantello is a Master Crystal & Energy Healing Practitioner, Founder & CEO of Evolve Healing Institute and the author of 'Rock On - The crystal healing handbook for spiritual rebels'. If you would like to learn more about crystal healing or how to become a crystal healing practitioner, then please check out Kate's world-class, internationally accredited online crystal healing courses. Alternatively, for a deeply personal healing experience, you may like to book a 1-1 online intuitive crystal healing session with Kate, which also includes your very own crystal prescription.
Mel Shieldhouse is a freelance copywriter and content creator, based on the Sunshine Coast. She specialises in helping busy, heart-centred entrepreneurs attract their dream client. If you’d like to work with Mel, you can contact her at Teacup Copy.