When you first get your crystals or have been using them for some time, they will have absorbed a range of different energies that will then be exposed to you and anyone that has handled them. It’s important to 'cleanse' your crystals as soon as you obtain them or at least once a month. If you use them often, it might be a good idea to cleanse them on a bi-weekly basis.
This cleansing process isn't a 'physical' cleaning with soap and water, but intended to cleanse the stone of its stored energies, both good and bad. Crystals used specifically for healing should be cleansed before and after use.
Below is an outline of some simple steps to use to clean your crystals and stones:
Use sea salt
Sea salt and water is a great way to rid your stone of unwanted harmful energies. If the stone is not brittle, using sea salt will not harm the stone. When using this method, it’s best to leave the stone in the water overnight. You can also add sage, basil or lavender to the water to enhance the cleansing affect.
Use running water
Holding the stone under running is also a very efficient way of cleansing your stone. As you clean it, ask the stone by asking the Universe to remove all negativity.
Use other stones
Stones like Carnelian and Clear Quartz clean other stones. It’s actually really simple. All you have to do is add them to the bag where you store your stones.
Try smudging
You can also use sage to clear your healing stones. While smudging your stones, it’s important to put intention in to them. Asking for protection or dedicating love to them is the best medicine.
Use a crystal cleanser
One of the best ways to clean crystals is the organic way; in some instances the stone may be fragile. Crystal cleansers work better with brittle stones and a couple of drops do the trick.
Programming your gemstone
Crystals need to be dedicated to the purpose you’re using them for. It’s best to program your crystal directly after you've cleaned and cleared it. This gives you the advantage of better connecting with the crystals.
To program the crystal for a specific use, hold the crystal in your left hand. Focus on the intended use of the crystal.
Storing your stone
Most crystals are fragile, so tender love and care is essential to your crystals' longevity. Some gemstones fade after an extended amount of exposure to sunlight. When you’re not using your crystals, place them in a pouch or wrap them in a silk scarf to keep them safe.
Keep in mind that some crystals that have a high salt content (such as selenite), any raw crystal, and porus crystals (such as kyanite and azurite) should NOT be cleansed with running water. High salt content stones will dissolve, and many raw stones are toxic and rinsing can release their toxic dust and cause skin irritation. Porus crystals will become damaged. Water is only suitable for polished/tumbled stones (without cracks) and stones in the quartz/agate families.
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