Using crystals in water—whether for cleansing or creating a crystal elixir (often called gem water or elixir)—is a popular practice among crystal enthusiasts. However, not all crystals are suitable for immersion in water. Some crystals can dissolve, release toxic substances, or suffer physical damage when exposed to water. Below is an extensive guide that explains which crystals should be kept away from water, why they are sensitive, and provides alternative methods for cleansing or channeling energy in water safely.
Crystals That Should Be Avoided in Water
Selenite
- Why:
Selenite is an extremely soft crystal with a Mohs hardness of only 2, making it highly soluble in water. Prolonged exposure to water can cause it to erode, dissolve, and lose its unique structure. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Use smoke cleansing (smudging) with sage, use sound vibrations (such as a crystal singing bowl), or place selenite under moonlight to clear 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 rust and lose its characteristic bright green color. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Clean malachite using a dry layer of salt or cover it with rice. Short-term exposure to sunlight can also be effective, but avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can overheat the stone.
Hematite
- Why:
Due to its high iron content, hematite is prone to rusting when it comes into contact with water. Rust not only damages the surface of the crystal, but can also make it unsafe to handle. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Use smoke cleansing, sound cleansing, or place hematite on a quartz cluster to absorb and neutralize unwanted energy without water contact.
Lepidolite
- Why:
Lepidolite contains lithium, which can leach into water and be harmful if ingested. Additionally, this crystal is quite soft and can begin to chip and break when submerged. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Allow lepidolite to cleanse itself under the gentle light of the moon or sunlight, or use sound vibrations from a crystal singing bowl to renew its energy.
Azurite
- Why:
Like malachite, azurite contains copper and is very sensitive. Exposure to water can lead to the release of harmful substances and physical damage to the crystal. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Cleanse azurite by smoke cleansing with sage, place it on a bed of dry rice, or use the energy of other strong crystals, such as clear quartz or amethyst, for indirect cleansing.
Calcite
- Why:
Calcite is quite soft and can gradually dissolve in water. Such dissolution can cause the crystal to lose its shape, become brittle, or even dissolve completely. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Rely on sound cleansing, smoke cleansing, or indirect sunlight exposure to revive the energy of calcite without causing structural damage.
Fluorite
- Why:
Fluorite is slightly soluble in water, especially if it contains impurities.Prolonged exposure to water may cause discoloration or physical damage. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Use the soft light of the moon or sun for cleansing, or place fluorite on a selenite slab to absorb and channel negative energy.
Pyrite
- Why:
Known as "fool's gold," pyrite can oxidize in water to form sulfuric acid. This not only damages the crystal, but also creates a hazardous substance. - Alternative Cleaning Methods:
Choose smoke cleansing, sound vibrations, or place pyrite on top of a larger group of crystals to clear its energy without direct water contact.
Safe Crystal Elixirs Making
When creating crystal elixirs—water infused with the energetic properties of crystals—it is crucial to use only stones that are safe to immerse in water. Safe options include many types of quartz (such as clear quartz, rose quartz, and amethyst), which are stable and do not leach harmful substances into water.
Direct and Indirect Method
- Direct Method:
Place safe crystals directly into the water to charge it with their energy. Make sure the water is clean and use glass containers if possible to avoid chemical reactions. - Indirect Method:
If the crystal should not come into direct contact with water, use the indirect method. Place the crystal in a smaller glass container, and place this container in a larger container filled with water. This way, the water will absorb the crystal's energetic signature without coming into direct contact, reducing the risk of dissolution or contamination.
In summary
While many crystals can safely interact with water, it is important to know which ones should be kept dry to avoid melting, toxicity, or physical damage. By understanding the properties of each crystal and choosing the right cleansing or energy transfer methods, you can safely and effectively enjoy all the benefits your crystals provide. Always research the properties of each crystal thoroughly and follow safety guidelines to support your spiritual and healing practices responsibly.
For more information on safe crystal practices, visit our website. Stay informed, choose wisely, and enjoy your crystal journey with confidence and responsibility!