Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Lasell chapter.

Are you feeling down lately? Having trouble falling asleep? No matter the ailment, you might find that you want to use the resource of Earth’s beautiful crystals. There’s lots to learn, and I love to share my knowledge. Starting with, what are crystals? Crystals are natural materials that present in many different ways.

Crystals can be classified by a few different characteristics. The Mohs Scale measures the crystal type’s hardness. It ranges from Talcum, which can be easily scratched by other minerals and fingernails, to Diamond, which is the hardest natural substance. They can also be classified by properties according to color. For example, orange stones are enlivening and energizing, and encourage creativity, while light blue governs expression and communication. 

There are many different ways that you can surround yourself with the energy of your crystals. My favorite way is to wear them as jewelry! One option is to buy a spiral cage pendant, so you can slip in and out any stone you want. Premade bracelets, earrings, and necklaces are also a good option, just make sure that you get them from a well-rated metaphysical or spiritual shop, as the ones you get from Target aren’t likely to be real. Another option is to keep them on display. Keeping them by your bed, on your desk, or even (safely) in your car can keep them close to you when you really need them. 

If I had to recommend a few beginner crystals, I would go with rose quartz, amethyst, and citrine.

Rose quartz, historically, is a symbol of love and beauty. It is part of the quartz family and is a 7 (out of 10) on the Mohs scale. Its healing properties include self-love, romance, patience, and kindness. It is associated with the planet Venus, the zodiac signs Taurus and Libra, and the heart chakra. 

Amethyst was historically known as the “gem of fire” and was worth just as much as a diamond. Amethyst is also a part of the quartz family and a 7 on the Mohs scale. Its healing properties include protection, inner peace, meditation, and self-discipline. It is associated with the planets Jupiter and Neptune, the zodiac signs Capricorn, Pisces, Aquarius, and Virgo, and it is the birthstone for those born in February. 

Finally, citrine has been referred to as the Merchant’s stone, for it was famous for assisting in acquiring and maintaining wealth. Citrine is once again part of the quartz family. Its healing properties include clarity, good fortune, confidence, and protection. It is associated with the planet Jupiter, the zodiac signs Gemini, Libra, Aries, and Leo, and is the birthstone of those born in November.

Do you have a favorite crystal? Let me know in the comments below!

Kyra is a senior at Lasell University and is an elementary education major. She loves to hike, bake, and work with her students at daycare.