Admittedly, I am a little gem obsessed.

I am a lover of their energy, their history, textures, forms, and colors. Each one is like a vibrant little candy morsel for my eyes and soul. Luckily, I am not the only one!

Since the dawn of humankind we have been collecting these beautiful jewels of the earth to carry with us to admire and to infuse in our rituals. Gemstones seem to have always been revered for their beauty as well as their healing properties. Whatever you may believe about their energies, no one can deny the effect their exquisiteness has on our spirits!

I wanted to share with you a brief introduction to some of my favorite gems that can be used in your personal practice. You may choose a special gem to carry with you each day to set an intention, create a crystal grid, wear it on a jewelry item, have it resting at your altar or even have a mala with your chosen stone to meditate with.

Here are my top five picks of gems I think every yogi should have:

1. Lapis Lazuli

Lapis has been used for thousands of years for spiritual endeavors. Egyptians buried it with their dead, alchemists called it the Philosopher’s stone and Buddhists consider it a stone for inner peace. This beautiful blue stone with flecks of gold is said to offer clarity and truth. It is perfect for those who enjoy meditating with gemstones as it enhances concentration and focus.

2. Amethyst

Amethyst comes in a variety of gorgeous shades from deep purple to soothing lilac. It has been said to offer calm thoughts as well as nourish the soul, heal emotional trauma and assist with insomnia. It can create a space of sobriety. The very word amethyst comes from Greek meaning “without drunkenness.” (Not that any yogis we know would find that quality useful!)

3. Rose Quartz

Rose quartz is a beautiful pale pink stone that can be used to open the heart chakra, the seat of love and compassion. It is perfect for spiritual practices that focus on these qualities.  It is the gem of love of all kinds: self-love, Universal love as well as romantic love. It is easy to see why this is a favorite among many yogis!

4. Turquoise

Turquoise is one of the most cherished protecting and healing stones in many cultures. It is used to heal the body from stress, clear the mind as well as offer protection and wisdom. Native Americans wore this stone into battle and Persians adorned their buildings with it for good fortune. It has also been used as a symbol of wealth and protection, offering the wearer safety from negative influences.

5. Clear Quartz

Clear quartz is a gemstone that is said to enhance energies and thoughts. As it is clear, it is often considered a clarifying stone that can assist with concentration and healing. It also encourages harmony and alignment of the chakras.

The best way to choose a gem is find one that calls to you and enjoy it! You need not read books on the topic. Trust that the right stones will find you just when you need them.

Do share with me! What are the top five gems you think every Yogi should have?

Note: None of the above information is meant to treat or cure any disease. I am not a health care professional, just an ardent lover of gemstones and their properties.

 

Lauren Saraswati Zavlunov is a mother, aspiring Yogini, professional musician, jewelry designer and owner of the online boutique Jewels of Saraswati. Lauren’s specialty is creating customized hand-knotted malas and Yoga jewelry. She works closely with her clients on each mala design to manifest their unique spiritual and aesthetic vision. You may contact Lauren on either her website, on Facebook, or Twitter.

 

Like elephant Spirituality on Facebook

Ed., T. Lemieux & Brianna Bemel