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Crystals
Crystals
have became synonymous with the New Age philosophy. Included within this
category are clear and colored quartz as well as semi-precious and precious
stones. Since the 1980's such stones have been used as amulets and talismans possessing reputed healing and magical properties.
Although such paranormal properties have not been scientifically proven
those using the stones firmly believe that these properties are caused by
the stones emitting vibrations.
The modern belief in crystal power is a reassurance of an ancient belief.
Past civilizations valued crystals for their alleged protective powers against
disease, bad luck, evil, and sorcery; and for their physical and mental
healing powers. Crystals were worn as amulets and in breastplates by ancient
people. European nobility, especially during the Middle Ages, wore crystals
to ward off the plague. The stones are used against bad dreams, dissolve
enchantments, and were mediums for magical visions. (see Divination) It was
even believed that bruising crystals with honey would fill breasts with
milk.
Presently crystals are worn as jewelry in pendants and rings, and even carried
in small pouches as in ancient times. They are placed around the home and
office, and crushed or soaked in water for gem elixirs. The benefits of
using crystals are said to be the alleviation of stress, stimulation of
creativity, enhancement of dreams, and the awakening of the psychic powers
and higher consciousness. In some types of healing therapy crystals are
laid out in particular forms on the chakra points and energy meridians of
the human body. In alternative medicine they are used on animals as well
as humans.
Crystals are used in the work of the occult and magic too. In divination
they may be cast in lots or selected. Also, they are used in crystalomancy
and meditation.
Some crystal enthusiasts believe certain stones such as clear quartz can
be "programmed" to perform certain functions. There are certain
procedures for such programming, one is to "clear" the stones
by immersing them in salt, then exposing them to sunlight, then "programming"
the stones through meditation or concentration. Some stones are classified
as "double-terminated" or having points at both ends, and are
claimed to be stronger in mystical powers. A.G.H.
Sources: 9,
29.