From the beginning of time, mankind has relied on stones as tools. Whether in hunting, food preparation, or even timekeeping, rocks and minerals have played an integral role in our development. Some of the earliest artifacts from our early days are simple rocks shaped for ease of handling.

Not only did we look at stones as hand tools, however, but we also used them for their healing and spiritual properties. Stones are but solid energy, and each one has its own vibration. But what is the difference between minerals and rocks, if any?

Without going too deeply into geology, a rock is a naturally formed aggregate of materials, usually inorganic, from within the Earth. Minerals, on the other hand, are naturally occurring, usually inorganic, solids consisting of either a single element or a compound, and having a definite chemical composition and a systematic internal arrangement of atoms, designated as elements. Rocks are made up of minerals; for example, granite is a mixture of quartz, feldspar and mica while diamonds are pure carbon with only trace impurities.  A really good explanation can be found at: http://www.rocks-and-minerals.com/. 

Metaphysicians and Lightworkers take advantage of the energy-storing properties of stones. Various compositions provide different energy signatures, and while everyone has the ability to get their own impressions from stones, general characteristics have been noted over the years. Some stones lend themselves to healing, some to balancing energy, some to enhancing abilities. Some stones work on more than one plane, such as turquoise, which is known as "the Shaman's stone" for its versatility.

There are some excellent books that give information on uses of stones. Love is in the Earth by Melody has several volumes and not only covers the specific qualities observed in certain stones, but includes photos for identification. If you prefer a less comprehensive, more basic guide, look for Scott Cunningham's Crystal, Gem and Metal Magic.

Many Lightworkers keep a variety of raw or polished stones of many varieties on hand, including of course the quartz crystal which is probably most universally known for its use in healing and so-called new age spirituality. While many stones naturally are crystalline in form, most people think of quartz when they think of crystals and for good reason. Not only does quartz have useful properties of its own, but it helps to amplify the effect of any other stone--for that matter any substance--with which it is used.

For excellent specimens of various stones online, visit these sites:

http://freespace.virgin.net/broad.horizons/crystal1.html

Many practioners also have luck with Ebay.

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