Healing Crystals and Stones
So how do you pick a crystal book? Here are a few of my recommendations:
1. Go straight to the index at the back of the book. Perhaps think of a word or topic of interest ahead of time such as “angels” then see if you can find it in the index. Also make sure they index the crystals…believe it or not, some don’t.
2. Then go to the body of the book. Determine if you like the book arranged by:
a.. Color – great for when you are trying to identify a stone, but not so great when you are trying to look up the qualities of a stone.
b. Alphabetical – my personal favorite because I can find a stone quickly.
c. Properties – this is great when you want a quick reference book according to the reason you are needing a stone such as anxiety. You look up “anxiety” and it lists the stones that will help.
3. What is the picture quality? You really want a clear picture. Are they raw, tumbled, or gem stone quality? Many often want to see what the stone looks like when tumbled.
4. What data is provided? Do you just want the 411 on what the crystals can do for you or do you want more information such as the historical background of the stone?
5. What type of information is included? Do you want a book primarily about crystals for health or do you want a wide variety?
6. Do you resonate (vibe) with the author’s explanations?
If you are like me and love research, then lots of books are fine. But be warned: when they contradict one another it can get overwhelming and even frustrating. I recommend (but I don’t always take my own advice) sticking to two to four books…or even one if you can do it! Good luck with that!!!!
Some of my go-to books are:
1. The Crystal Healer, Philip Permutt – This book has a great index, pictures, and short explanations that stay with you. A special index has crystals broken down into crystals for emotional issues, physical issues, mental(intellectual) issues, and spiritual issues.
Con: the crystals are in color order within the book; therefore, making it sometimes difficult to quickly find the crystal you are looking for.
2. The Book of Stones, Robert Simmons – It has a very good reference book due to its thorough index, good photographs and good information. The explanations are good on every level: historical, scientific and metaphysical properties. I especially love the pocket edition which is great for easy reference.
Con: I’m not a big fan of trademarking stones and Mr. Simmons does trademark stones.
3. The Crystal Bible, Judy Hall
You name it, Hall has written it. The Crystal Bible Volume 1 and perhaps 2 are great resources. Decent index, good photographs, and alphabetical order (which obviously I prefer over grouping by color).
Helpful hint: when there are several volumes to crystal books, they tend to progress in the rarity, and therefore, price of the stones.
4. Crystal Prescriptions, Judy Hall
This is my go to book for physical ailments. I “don’t leave home without it.” It contains stones primarily for physical issues, but it does include other topics including emotional issues such as depression. I suggest only buying volume one to begin. It is small and easy to quickly use. You might also want to put it on Kindle on your phone for quick reference. You won’t regret purchasing this handy book if you are a crystal healer.
5. The Essential Guide to Crystals, Minerals and Stones, Margaret Ann Lembo
I really like the energy she puts into her descriptions. I have met her on several occasions and she is a lovely person with a soothing energy. The book is in alphabetical order, but her unique descriptions of stones are what I like. It is obvious she doesn’t just cut and paste what has been stated over and over. However, sometimes this can lead to a slight bit of confusion if consulting other books because what she writes about a stone’s properties may be different than what others have to say. I find her descriptions to be quite refreshing and interesting.
Again, this is a partial list. I know there are a million other books out there. I probably own them…Roger, my husband, will certainly be glad to tell you that I do. BUT remember I told you I’m a crystal book addict and thus far I’ve found no cure…I’m sure there is a crystal (no, not just amethyst) for that! Do you need to purchase books? Well…I don’t even relate to that question since I love books so much, but no. You can use your own intuition to ascertain the properties of a stone or use the dictionary of the gods…Google. But websites are a blog for another day. You can always drop by my store, SoulTopia, to look through my library of crystal books or to purchase the ones mentioned in this blog. Until next time…
Crystal Blessings,
Michelle Welch