Cleansing and Charging Gemstones
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Gemstones are not only beautiful to look at, but for many people, they also hold symbolic or energetic meaning. Just like jewelry or other valuable items, they require care to remain beautiful. In this guide, you'll discover when, why, and how to cleanse and charge gemstones , with practical tips suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Why cleanse gemstones?
Gemstones come into contact with many hands, surfaces, and environments during their journey from mine to your home. Some people believe that stones absorb energy from their surroundings. Even if you don't believe this, cleaning them is important to remove dust, dirt, and skin oils so the stone retains its shine.
When should you cleanse your gemstones?
There are a few times when it is advisable to cleanse your gemstones:
- Immediately after purchase or receipt
- After intensive use or wearing
- If the stone looks dull or feels greasy
- When you feel the stone feels 'heavy' or 'full'
Methods to cleanse gemstones
There are several ways to cleanse gemstones. Not every method is suitable for every stone. Below you'll find an overview of the most commonly used methods and examples of stones that are and aren't suitable for this.
Overview Table: Gemstones and Cleansing Methods
| Method | Description | Suitable for | Not suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running water |
|
Rock crystal, Amethyst, Rose quartz, Aventurine |
Selenite, Malachite, Pyrite, Lapis Lazuli |
| Sunlight | Place the stone in direct sunlight for a few hours | Rock crystal, Citrine, Tiger's eye |
Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Fluorite (discolours) |
| Moonlight |
Place the stone at night in the light of the full moon |
All gemstones | – |
| Frankincense or Palo Santo |
Let the smoke flow along the stone for a few minutes |
All gemstones | – |
| Selenite |
Place the stone on or next to a selenite rod or disc |
All gemstones | – |
How do you charge gemstones?
Charging is often seen as a process of "renewing" a stone's energy. Even if you don't believe in energy, it can still be a beautiful ritual to consciously engage with your collection.
Popular charging methods
- Sunlight: Suitable for stones that do not discolour.
- Moonlight: Gentle and safe for all stones.
- Rock crystal cluster: Place the stone on a cluster for a few hours or days.
- Selenite: A natural charger that will not damage your stone.
Overview table: Charging methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Sunlight | Fast, powerful, free |
Not suitable for colour-sensitive stones. |
| Moonlight |
Safe, soft, suitable for all stones |
Only optimal during clear nights |
| Rock crystal cluster |
Can charge multiple stones at once |
You need a cluster |
| Selenite |
Convenient and fast, no preparation required |
Not suitable for water purification |
Common mistakes when cleaning and charging
- Stones that cannot withstand water should still be held under the tap
- Place colorable stones in direct sunlight
- Cleaning in salt water for too long can damage the surface
- Forgetting to remove jewelry with gemstones while showering or swimming
Conclusion
Cleansing and charging gemstones is a wonderful way to care for your collection and engage with it consciously. Whether you believe in their energetic properties or collect them purely for their beauty, regular maintenance will ensure they look beautiful for years to come.