by Ronnee Ruselle

Crystals are wonderful gifts from nature that can bring beauty and healing into your life in a gentle way. Perhaps the best thing about crystals is that you don't need a prescription or a practitioner to be able to use them. You only need to follow your instincts. Working with your intuition and feelings can bring great satisfaction and enjoyment when selecting and using your crystals.

When I am purchasing crystals, I have always found the best way is to use my own instincts on what to buy. I have found repeatedly with clients and students that they automatically choose whichever crystals work the best for what their current needs are - even if they have no experience or knowledge of crystals at all. The beauty of selecting crystals in this way is that they not only work with the issues you are aware of, but they also will help the ones you are not aware of.

The best way to do this is to just take your time and relax. Then walk around the crystals, look and also feeling within yourself which ones you are drawn to. Try holding them for a moment and see if they feel right. Some people like to hold an open hand above crystals to see if they get a response such as a cold or warm feeling or a slight vibration, but go with what feels natural to you.

Crystals make wonderful gifts for Children. Not only are they of some value, but they can be their very own piece of nature. They are also beautiful and of a good size for children to keep. Of course you would not buy crystals for a very young child due to the risk of swallowing or choking. But for the older child, it's perfect, especially if they are a child who likes to collect things. It could be the start of a lovely collection.

Many people who are eager to have a good crystal collection might be tempted to spend a lot of money at first and just buy a whole range of crystals. It is best to purchase what you feel drawn to when you feel you need to. However, below is a good general start list to go by for when you buy your first crystal collection.

Clear Quartz - This stone is a cleansing stone. It is good for helping to clear the mind. It amplifies the effects of any other stone you put it with. It also makes a refreshing drink. Simply place the stone into a glass of water and leave it for a half an hour or longer if you prefer and drink. I tend to put a good sized clear quartz into a jug of water in the refrigerator overnight for use the next day. It's wonderful in the hot months. This is more effective when used in crystal or glass jugs and glasses.

Amethyst - This stone is good for removing negativity. It's a stone of protection and a good one if you wish to purchase crystal jewellery as a gift for others. It is a beautiful purple or violet coloured stone and if particularly lovely as a display piece.

Rose Quartz - This is the stone of love. It's soft pink colour is eyecatching, but it's energy is gentle and it helps people feel more accepting and loving towards others. Another stone which is a great gift, rose quartz can be purchased in a variety of appealing shapes.

Smoky Quartz - This stone is a great one for balance. It works with the base chakra, but it's lovely soft tones make it a gentle stone to work with so it's perfect for beginners. It will aid with meditation and healing. This stone relaxes and can help pacify an irritated person or help calm before sleep.

Citrine - This lovely stone is considered to be an orange colour although they can be found in tones from golden yellow to a soft brown. Known as a stone for prosperity, people often keep it around to help them when they are in need. It's sunny colour suits it for it is a stone of happiness, lifting the spirits.

You can buy any of the above stones in the form of tumblestones when you begin to collect crystals. It is a good way to begin a collection as they are very affordable and you can buy quite a few different ones, getting to know them one at a time.

A good way to do this is to hold one in your hand each day for a while and make a note of what you feel. In time you'll become familiar with your stones and comfortable using them. There are a range of ways to use them, from wearing them as jewellery, holding them when meditating and creating crystal water as mentioned above. Trust your instincts with them and have fun!