Caring for Gemstones

For optimal functioning of a gemstone, it must be properly cared for. The positive energy the stone releases into its environment must be regularly replenished (charging the stone), and the negative energy the stone has absorbed from its surroundings must be discharged (cleansing the stone). After acquiring a gemstone, it's wise to thoroughly cleanse and charge it before using or carrying it (we've already done this for you). If the stone appears dull or cracked, this is also a sign that it needs to be cleansed and charged. How often you cleanse and charge the stone depends on the stone and its purpose. Your own intuition is therefore very important. If you are sensitive to the energy of your stone, let the stone itself guide you. If you feel the stone's effectiveness diminishing or if it has absorbed a lot of negative energy, take care of it at that time. As a general guideline, if you use a stone for a healing session, you should cleanse it before and afterward. If you carry a stone for its (healing or therapeutic) properties, it's wise to cleanse and charge it at least once a week, depending on how intensively the stone's energy is being used. If you use a stone as a guide or for meditation, cleansing and charging it once a week or once a month is sufficient.

Cleansing or Discharging Gemstones

Gemstones absorb negative energy from their surroundings. The extent to which this happens varies from stone to stone. Some stones, such as tourmaline and amber, absorb a lot of energy and therefore need to be cleansed more often. There are various methods for cleaning stones. The most suitable method also varies from stone to stone. Below is an overview of the most commonly used cleaning methods. For all these methods, it's important to state the intention that you want to thoroughly cleanse the stone and release all absorbed negative energy. Running water

Earth

Hematite

Sage or other cleansing herbs

Frankincense (especially sandalwood)

Amethyst

Selenite

The first method for cleansing a stone is to hold it under running water for at least five minutes. This can be done under the tap, but of course also in a stream or the surf. This is one of the fastest cleaning methods, but not suitable for thorough cleaning. Some stones are corroded by water and cannot be cleaned in water. This applies to, among others, calcite, magnetite, selenite, lapis lazuli, malachite, turquoise, opal, and angelite. Silver jewelry and/or 14k gold-filled jewelry should also not be cleaned under running water.

For our jewelry, we prefer the method with hematite and rock crystal, which is described below.

A safe and gentle cleansing method is to place stones in a shell or bowl with hematite stones. Hematite absorbs the negative charge from the stone. Leave the stone on the hematite for at least 24 hours. The hematite can be cleansed and charged by holding the stones under running water, for example. Dry thoroughly, otherwise the stones may rust.

Charging Gemstones

Gemstones have a positive effect by releasing their energy to their environment or to the wearer. This energy must be regularly replenished for optimal effectiveness. Charging a stone can increase or strengthen its effect (or its intensity). Below are the most commonly used methods for charging gemstones.

Moonlight
Sunlight
Rock Crystal
Selenite
Meru Pyramid
By placing the stone in moonlight for at least one night (this can easily be done behind glass), the stone's natural energy is replenished. This is a very gentle and safe method for charging stones. Full moonlight is particularly suitable for this!

Finally, a stone can be charged very gently and safely by placing it on a rock crystal cluster or in a shell or bowl with rock crystal stones. Leave the stone for at least 24 hours. Make sure you clean the rock crystal regularly (rock crystal can easily be held under running water).

For cleansing gemstones and minerals, it's best to place the stones in the pyramid for at least 8 hours per week (continuously). For heavily soiled stones, this is 24 hours, followed by the same treatment as for normal use. Placing the stones in the pyramid longer and more frequently will yield even better results.