Why Cleanse Crystals?
Many crystal practitioners believe that stones can absorb energy from their environment and the people who wear them. Regular cleansing is thought to clear this accumulated energy and return the crystal to its natural state.
Signs Your Crystal May Need Cleansing
It feels "heavy" or different than usualYou've been through an emotionally intense periodSomeone else has handled your crystalIt's been a while since the last cleanseYou want to set a new intentionCleansing Methods
Moonlight
One of the most popular and gentle methods:
Place crystals on a windowsill or outsideLeave overnight during a full moonRetrieve before direct sun exposureWorks for all stonesSmoke/Smudging
Using sacred smoke to cleanse:
Light sage, palo santo, or incensePass the crystal through the smokeSet an intention for clearingEnsure proper ventilationSound
Vibrations can clear energy:
Singing bowlsTuning forksBellsChantingRunning Water
Natural flowing water is powerful:
Hold crystal under cool running waterVisualize negative energy washing awayPat dry completely**Caution:** Not suitable for porous or water-sensitive stones (lava stone, pyrite)Salt
Earth's purifier:
Bury in dry sea salt overnightDispose of salt after useRinse crystal briefly**Caution:** Can damage some stones—research firstOther Crystals
Some stones cleanse others:
Selenite plates or bowlsClear quartz clustersCarnelianCharging Methods
Charging is about refilling your crystal with energy after cleansing.
Sunlight
Brief morning sunlight energizes most stones:
15-30 minutes maximumEarly morning is gentler**Caution:** Prolonged sun can fade amethyst, rose quartz, citrineMoonlight
Moonlight both cleanses and charges:
Full moon is most powerfulNew moon good for intention-settingSafe for all stonesEarth
Burying in soil connects to Earth energy:
Wrap in cloth for protectionMark the spot!Leave for 24 hoursIntention
Your focused intention is powerful:
Hold the crystal in your handsClose your eyes and breathe deeplyVisualize bright light filling the stoneState your intention clearlyCrystal-Specific Considerations
Safe for All Methods
Clear quartzAmethystRose quartzTiger eyeAvoid Water
Pyrite (can rust)Lava stone (porous)Selenite (dissolves)Avoid Sunlight
Amethyst (fades)Rose quartz (fades)Citrine (fades)Creating a Cleansing Routine
Consider cleansing your crystal bracelets:
Weekly if worn dailyAfter particularly heavy daysWith each new moon or full moonWhen setting new intentionsThese are traditional practices. Find what resonates with you.