Using crystals in water—whether for cleansing purposes or to create crystalline elixirs (often called gem water or elixirs)—is a popular practice among crystal enthusiasts. However, not every crystal is suited for water immersion. Some crystals may dissolve, leach toxic elements, or sustain physical damage when exposed to water. Below is an enhanced guide outlining which crystals should avoid water, why they are sensitive, and alternative methods for cleansing them or incorporating their energy into water safely.
Crystals That Should Avoid Water
Selenite
-
Why:
Selenite is an extremely soft crystal with a Mohs hardness of only 2, making it highly water-soluble. Extended contact with water can cause it to erode, dissolve, and lose its unique structure. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Use smudging with sage, employ sound vibrations (such as a crystal singing bowl), or place selenite under moonlight to cleanse its energy without physical contact.
Malachite
-
Why:
Malachite contains copper, which can leach into water and create a toxic solution if ingested. Additionally, moisture can cause malachite to tarnish and lose its characteristic vibrant green hue. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Clean malachite using a dry salt bed or by burying it in rice. Brief exposure to sunlight can also be effective, but avoid prolonged direct sunlight that might overheat the stone.
Hematite
-
Why:
With its high iron content, hematite is prone to rusting when exposed to water. Rust not only damages the crystal’s surface but may also render it unsafe for handling. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Use smudging, sound cleansing, or place hematite on a quartz cluster to absorb and neutralize unwanted energies without water exposure.
Lepidolite
-
Why:
Lepidolite contains lithium, a substance that can leach into water and be harmful if ingested. Moreover, this crystal is relatively soft and may begin to flake apart when submerged. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Allow lepidolite to cleanse under the gentle light of the moon or sun, or use sound vibrations from a crystal singing bowl to refresh its energy.
Azurite
-
Why:
Similar to malachite, azurite contains copper and is delicate. Exposure to water can lead to the leaching of harmful substances and physical damage to the crystal. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Clean azurite by smudging it with sage, placing it on a bed of dry rice, or using the energy of other robust crystals like clear quartz or amethyst to help cleanse it indirectly.
Calcite
-
Why:
Calcite is relatively soft and can gradually dissolve in water over time. This dissolution may cause the crystal to lose its shape, become brittle, or even disintegrate. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Rely on sound cleansing, smudging, or indirect exposure to sunlight to rejuvenate calcite’s energy without risking its structural integrity.
Fluorite
-
Why:
Fluorite is slightly soluble in water, especially if it contains impurities. Prolonged exposure can lead to fading or physical damage. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Use the gentle power of moonlight or sunlight for cleansing, or place fluorite on a selenite plate to absorb and redirect negative energies.
Pyrite
-
Why:
Known as “fool’s gold,” pyrite can oxidize in the presence of water, leading to the formation of sulfuric acid. This not only degrades the crystal but also creates a hazardous substance. -
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Opt for smudging, sound vibrations, or place pyrite on a larger crystal cluster to allow its energy to be cleared without direct water contact.
Creating Crystal Elixirs Safely
When it comes to making crystal elixirs—water infused with the energetic properties of crystals—it’s crucial to use only those stones that are safe to submerge. Safe options include many quartz varieties (such as clear quartz, rose quartz, and amethyst), which are stable and do not release harmful substances in water.
Direct vs. Indirect Methods
-
Direct Method:
Place the safe crystals directly into the water to charge it with their energy. Ensure that the water is clean and, if possible, use glass containers to avoid any chemical reactions. -
Indirect Method:
For crystals that should never come in contact with water, use an indirect method. Place the crystal inside a smaller glass container and then set this container within a larger vessel filled with water. This allows the water to absorb the energetic imprint of the crystal without any risk of dissolution or contamination.
In Summary
While many crystals can safely interact with water, it’s essential to be mindful of those that should be kept dry to prevent dissolution, toxicity, or physical damage. By understanding each crystal’s properties and selecting the appropriate cleansing or infusion method, you can ensure that you enjoy the full benefits of your crystals safely and effectively. Always research your crystals’ individual properties and follow safety guidelines to support your spiritual and healing practices responsibly.
For more detailed insights and safe crystal practices, visit our website. Stay informed, choose wisely, and enjoy your crystal journey with confidence and care!