Sent by a friend:

I have so many people reach out to me to ask about how to take care of their crystals. Others are surprised and may not know the importance of properly caring for crystals. There are three C’s to keep in mind when caring for crystals: Cleansing, Charging, and Claiming. Let’s discuss the why and how of the proper care of crystals so you can enjoy all the benefits they have to offer.
What is cleansing for crystals and why is it important?

You’ve selected the perfect crystal and you excitedly bring it home, ready to wear it or place it in the perfect spot. But before you do, think about that crystal’s journey to you. First, it was removed from a mine by one or more miners. From there, it was likely passed off to different handlers, and then a crystal vendor. The vendor either sold it to a retailer or at a trade show. In either case, various customers handled and touched it before you did.

We know that one of the unique sponge-like properties of crystals is that they absorb energy. Think of all the passing around that occurs; your stone has collected a lot of energy. This is why cleansing your crystals is a crucial first step to giving them a fresh start.

I also recommend cleansing your crystals periodically, especially if you wear them or carry them with you or place them in areas where they are exposed to lots of energy. The more often a stone is used, the more often it should be cleansed. You may even notice that a particular stone feels heavier or looks more dull than usual. This is also a sign that it needs a little TLC.
How do I cleanse my crystals?

There are several methods for cleansing crystals. Here are a few of the techniques I have used.
Himalayan or sea salt bath

Salt is a traditional purifying agent, making it perfect for cleansing crystals. Simply combine 1 tablespoon of sea salt or Himalayan pink salt in one cup of water in a glass container. (Don’t use plastic or metal.) Submerge your crystals and allow them to soak overnight. Alternatively, you can use dry salt. Just use enough salt to completely bury your crystals.

One additional method for cleansing with salt is to place crystals near a Himalayan salt lamp. Make sure that the bulb in the lamp is large enough that the salt heats up when it is turned on. Turn the lamp on and place crystals nearby for at least 12 hours.

Rice bath

Rice is another simple and inexpensive way to cleanse crystals. Place organic rice in a container large enough for your crystals. Bury them in the rice completely, and allow them to “soak” for 24 hours.
Sage Smudging

Smudging is an ancient practice that clears disharmony and restores natural energy to crystals. Take your crystals outdoors, light the end of a sage bundle, and waft the crystals through the smoke for 30 seconds – 1 minute. You can also place the crystals in a bowl and hold the bundle close enough to fully envelop them in smoke.
Running water

When you first obtain your crystals, one of the methods above may be a better option. But for everyday regular cleansing, running water works well. A natural water source, such as a river or stream, is ideal, but simply running water from the faucet over your crystals is often sufficient. Allow them to enjoy the shower for at least a minute.
What does it mean to charge a crystal?

Charging, or energizing, crystals is a way of “waking up” the natural energy of the stone. When crystals are still part of the earth, they draw energy from it naturally. However, once they have been removed from their natural habitat, the energy stored within is not limitless. The energy must be periodically replenished.
How do I charge my crystals?
Natural light

The simplest and one of the most effective ways to charge a crystal is with natural sun and moonlight. After cleansing, place your crystals outside or by a window with full sun and/or moon exposure for at least 24 hours. A full moon is the most effective, but even a partial moon will charge crystals.
Earth

You can also place your crystal in the pot of a healthy plant or bury it in the earth to charge it. Leave the crystal in the earth for 24-48 hours, rinse it off, and it is ready to go.
Put it with friends

That’s right, crystals need friends too! Certain crystals are wonderful for charging other crystals. Selenite is a crystal that absorbs negative energy while giving off positive energy. Selenite charging slabs are cut specifically for this purpose. If you have a slab, just place your crystals on the slab to charge them. Selenite also cleanses to a certain extent, so for maintenance, using it can accomplish both cleansing and charging. Selenite is unique because it never needs to be cleansed. It naturally transmutes negative energy, which is why it is so beneficial for cleansing and charging. Click here to purchase a selenite charging slab.

Clear quartz is another stone that can be used for charging. Simply place your crystal and the quartz together for at least 8-12 hours. Remember that the quartz does need to be cleansed occasionally. After you’ve used it to nurture other crystals, be sure to give it a wash and allow it to recharge as well.
How and why do I need to claim my crystals?

Claiming a crystal is another way to make sure that it does not carry any previous intentions of the people who may have handled it before you. This is the simplest part of crystal care. All you really need to do is set your intention for that crystal.