Types of Crystals

This article was written by Phyllis Galde on May 10, 2002
posted under

When people talk about crystals, they are usually referring to clear quartz, the most common form, which is often called the "grandfather" of the mineral kingdom.

Quartz crystals represent the sum total of evolution on the material plane. The six sides of the quartz crystal symbolize the six chakras, with the termination point corresponding to the crown chakra: that which connects one with the infinite. The base of the crystal is their root or foundation with the Earth. Frequently quartz crystals are cloudy or milky at the bottom and become more clear at the top, or point. This also symbolizes a growth pattern in which the cloudiness and dullness of consciousness is cleared as one grows closer in union with the Higher Self. Within clear quartz crystals are usually found inclusions, or clouded areas. Sometimes these resemble galaxies and in a sense they are, for "As above, so below."

The most common type of clear quartz crystal is a single, six-sided length of mineral. Six natural facets join sharply together to form the terminated apex. The crystal is supported by six sides and grounds the light force at the base. These, too, are likely to be cloudy at the bottom, and clear at the top, sometimes reflecting rainbows or prisms within, with inclusions. Occasionally the crystal will be completely clear all the way through, reflecting its advanced state of growth toward perfection and complete understanding.

A quartz cluster is a natural conglomerate formation of three or more single terminated quartz crystals joined in a massive rock matrix. A quartz crystal cluster can have as many as 100 individual quartz points or terminations, or it may have only two. These clusters share a common base. They represent the evolved community, each member being individually perfect and unique, yet sharing a common ground, common truth with the others. In clusters, all units join together to reap the benefits of living, learning and sharing in an advanced society. The individual crystals reflect light back and forth to one another, and all bathe in the combined radiance of the whole.

A single terminated crystal is formed when the six faces of quartz join together to form a point on one end. When both ends of a crystal join in this manner, a double terminated crystal is formed. These double terminated points are useful in that they have the capacity to draw in energy as well as radiate energy from either end of the crystal. By uniting the energies together in the central body of the crystal, a double terminated crystal can then project that unified essence out from both ends. These crystals are complete, and have reached a state of perfection. Instead of growing out of a hard rock surface where single terminations are formed, they grow in the center of softer clay. They know no limits or boundaries, and have grown to completion on each end. The double terminated crystals teach that it is possible to be balanced in the dual expression of spirit and matter.

A tabular crystal appears somewhat flat. This is because two of its six vertical sides are each at least twice as wide as any of the other four. This crystal may be either single or double terminated. The wide flat faces can be used as a sending and receiving board for telepathic healing and communication. It is said that these crystals are very strong and powerful. It is believed that this type of quartz crystal configuration is excellent for balancing any two elements, chakras, or people.

One more unique form of quartz crystal is the Herkimer Diamond. This is a higher vibration or octave form of crystal. These crystals are only found in one place in the world: New York. They are brilliant, usually double terminated, many with small black flecks of androxylite. Many also have rainbows. They are small but very powerful. Herkimer Diamonds are considered to be the catalysts of the quartz family. They have the potential to initiate deep inner transformation of the self.

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