Stones, crystals, and gems are compounds that form within the Earth; they are, therefore, generally associated with the Earth element. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and each stone has its own unique attributes. Below ore some of the most commonly used stones in Wicca and magick; if you decide to purchase no other stones, these are the "staple" stones that will cover most of your magickal needs.

Quartz

   One of the most common stones used in magick is the quartz crystal. It is clear overall, but natural crystals generally have "imperfections" which may be any variety of colors depending on what type of quartz it is. It comes in several varieties and colors, such as rose quartz, smoky quartz, rutilated quartz, and milky quartz. As some of you may not know, the following crystals are actually forms of quartz:

   Quarts is a very powerful stone and is known especially for its ability to conduct energy. It is used in communication more often than you are even aware of (it's even in your telephone!) and is also useful for such things as psychic communication and communication with the self/unconscious, deity, and Universal energy. It can help you both send and receive energy and communication, magnify energy and magickal power, and can be used as a tool of focus and centering. It is a wonderful all-purpose crystal, but is particularly good for communication and psychic activities as it amplifies and focuses energy. If you only buy one stone, this is it.

Hematite

   Hematite is arguably one of the most important stones to those who are very sensitive to energy, are highly empathetic, or have difficulty grounding. It is rather pretty, being a silvery-metallic color. Not surprisingly, it contains iron oxide, and so has the potential for magnetic interactions with energy - this makes it a powerful stone in energy use. It calms and maintains balance, and is often thought to improve self-esteem. Its grounding properties make it very useful after magick to aid in the process of grounding excess energy.

Amethyst

   As a type of quartz, this crystal contains some of the same properties. It is a very beautiful purple crystal. The Greeks saw it as a stone that prevented excess (particularly overeating and drunkenness). It is a balancing stone, as well as aiding psychic abilities and being a "dream stone" - a stone used to aid bad dreams or in dream magick.

Moonstone

   As may be guessed by its name, moonstone is sacred to the Moon and the Goddess. It is one of the most beautiful stones, being a creamy white color with bands of reflection that resemble moonlight. Its association with the moon makes it a powerful stone for emotions and feminine energy. It is a good choice for esbats.

Tiger's Eye

   This is my favorite stone, partly for its appearance and partly for its properties. It is much like moonstone in that it contains bands of reflection within the stone, and its color changes as you move it before your eyes. The common color scheme is brown/gold, but it also comes in blue and red varieties. It's useful in magick related to money matters, and can also be used for protection. It is a masculine stone associated with the Sun and, therefore, the God. It promoted proper energy flow and can also be used for healing. It is a very positive, "happy" stone and is useful in fighting depression as well as lending courage. Obviously, it is very versatile.

   Choosing a stone can be easy. If you feel its time to have one, go to your local metaphysical store (I've also seen stones sold in some craft stores). Take the time to look at what's available. See if you're drawn to one type more than any other. Pick up the stones and note how you feel when you hold it, and if you can get any sense of the stone's energy. When you find the right stone, you'll probably know. If not, go to another store or try again later. You may find yourself drawn to a stone without even having intended to purchase one - if this happens, it's a good bet that stone would work well with you.

   Like any other tool of magick, you don't need a stone to be successful - they can be helpful, but don't rush into finding one. You may end up with a stone that doesn't work well with you and have to get another one later anyway.

   I recommend that anyone who uses stones do several things before utilizing them in magick:

  1. Cleanse and consecrate the stone.

  2. Spend time getting to know the energy of the stone. Hold it often, carry it with you if you can, sleep with it near you. Once you understand the nature of the stone, its energy, and its properties, you'll be able to use it more effectively in magick.

  3. Keep it in a special place. Don't just toss it anywhere - that's disrespectful, and could disrupt the energy of the stone depending on where it's kept and what it's near. I keep all of my stones in a special box that I made for them, each with their own little section.

   For more info on other stones and properties, visit the following links: