If you are into rocks and crystals, you no doubt, are familiar with the believe in metaphysical powers of stones and have heard about Chakras. Some collectors aren't into "metaphysical powers", but many people in the rock and mineral world are, so occassionally I like to explore that world!

So if you want to learn about something new, read on!

What exactly are Chakras?

The original concept of chakras arose in Hinduism, though beliefs differ between the Indian religions, with many Buddhist texts consistently mentioning five chakras, while Hindu sources reference six or even seven. Chakras made their way to the western world in the 1920s, when Sir John Woodroffe (also called Arthur Avalon) wrote The Serpent Power. In the 1920’s each of the seven chakras was associated with an endocrine gland, a tradition that has persisted. And even more recently, the lower six chakras have been linked to both nerve plexuses and glands. Modern New Age practices usually have 7 chakras and often associate each chakra with a certain color.

The Chakras are traditionally considered meditation aids. The yogi progresses from lower chakras to the highest chakra blossoming in the crown of the head, internalizing the journey of spiritual ascent. The chakras are energy centers located throughout the body and each one corresponds to different aspects of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

In crystal healing rituals, gems or crystals are placed on the chakras and it is believed they will help clear blockages, release negative energy and restore balance to the body’s energy levels. Meditate with gems or crystals placed on your chakras and visualize the healing energies flowing in. Cabochons are the perfect size and shape to use in these rituals! This will lead to greater overall health and well-being. Crystal healers will actually do more complicated crystal grids and layouts, if that is an avenue you wish to explore.

The seven Chakras most often used in crystal healing include: 

Root Chakra-located at the base of the spine.  The Root Chakra is associated with grounding, stability and security. The best gemstone used for the Root Chakra is Red Jasper. Red Jasper is a grounding stone used for stability and security. Meditating with a piece of Red Jasper on your root chakra can help you feel safer.

Sacral Chakra-located just below the navel. The Sacral Chakra is associated with our emotions, passions, and pleasures. The best gemstone to meditate with on the Sacral Chakra is Carnelian. Carnelian is known for enhancing creativity and passion.

Solar Plexus Chakra-located in the upper abdomen. The Solar Plexus Chakra is associated with individual willpower, personal power, and commitment. The best gemstone to use on the Solar Plexus Chakra is Citrine. Citrine helps to boost self confidence and your sense of self-worth.

Heart Chakra-located in the center of the chest. The Heart Chakra is, of course, associated with love. The best gemstone for the Heart Chakra is Rose Quartz, the stone of love! Rose Quartz promotes love, compassion, and emotional healing from past hurts.

Throat Chakra-located in the throat area. The Throat Chakra rules all communication. The best gemstone for the Throat Chakra is Blue Lace Agate.  Blue Lace Agate is used to enhance communication skills.

Third Eye Chakra-located between the eyebrows. The Third Eye Chakra is associated with our insights and ability to engage in rational thought, regardless of a situation’s complexity, and is believed to be where our intuition rests. The best gemstone for the Third Eye Chakra is Amethyst. Amethyst brings energies of stability, peace, calm, balance, courage and inner strength.

Crown Chakra-located at the top of the head.  The Crown Chakra is associated with spiritual connection and enlightenment. The best gemstone for the Crown Chakra is clear Quartz. Clear Quartz is believed to help structure, store, amplify, focus, transmit and transform energy, which includes thoughts, emotions and information.

Be well!