Crystals were already highly prized objects in the time of the ancient civilisations. Not merely as decoration, but also as tools for warding off ill intentions and increasing happiness and wealth in the afterlife. The deceased were often buried with a protective amulet in the shape of a scarab, most commonly carved from Lapis Lazuli, Carnelian, or Turquoise. The amulet was placed over the heart and was said to ensure the rebirth of the departed.

Today, many people still use crystals for a variety of purposes. Some use them to decorate their home, others wear them as jewellery, while others incorporate them into their rituals and carry them as talismans of luck and protection.

Some choose a crystal based on its metaphysical properties, while others are first drawn in by its appearance. Both the colour and the shape of a crystal influence how it works — shape, in particular, determines how its energy will move through and around it.

There are a vast number of shapes and formations. Usually these are the crystal's natural structure, though sometimes we find shapes that have been created through cutting and carving. In what follows, I'll introduce just a few examples of both.

Pocket Stone

Smaller tumbled or pocket stones are associated with a gentle, diffused, and balanced energy, as their sharp edges are removed during the tumbling process.

Because of their shape and size, these crystals are wonderfully practical for everyday use. You can tuck one into a compartment in your car, carry it with you in your pocket or bag, or use it during meditation by placing it on your body or simply holding it in your hands.

Point (Natural or Polished)

Points, thanks to their pointed termination, direct the flow of energy outward in the direction of their tip, while also receiving energy through their base.

This shape is often used in intention work, as it helps channel energy toward a specific direction. Points are excellent for setting goals and manifesting, as they help direct energy toward achieving the desired outcome.

If you want to receive energy, point the tip toward your body. When you want to release stagnant energy from your body, turn the tip away from yourself.

Polished points differ from natural ones in that their shape has been formed by human hands, so their sides and base are smooth and flat, making them easy to stand on a desk or bedside table.

Pyramid

The pyramid is an ancient form of sacred geometry that has held special significance in many ancient cultures throughout history. Many believed that this shape connects the earth and the sky.

It is often associated with stability and transformation. Its wide base symbolises groundedness, while the apex gathers and directs energy upward.

Much like points, pyramids are used for manifesting goals and maintaining focus and balance.

Double-Terminated Crystal

Naturally double-terminated crystals are something truly special and are generally rarer than those with a termination on only one end. Most crystals grow attached to the surface of other rock, so a point can only form at the free end.

Because energy can travel through the crystal in both directions, they are an excellent tool for establishing balance and harmonising the flow of energy. These crystals are often used when we wish to shift stagnant energy, and in practices that encourage connection and communication.

Sphere

A sphere symbolises wholeness, unity, and harmony. Thanks to its rounded shape, it radiates energy evenly in all directions, making it an excellent choice for spaces where you wish to bring a sense of peace and balance.

Crystal spheres are also frequently used during meditation, when we wish to quiet our thoughts and reconnect with our inner world.

Animals

Animals carry powerful symbolic meaning in many cultures. When a crystal is carved into the shape of an animal, this typically does not affect the flow of energy — rather, the symbolism complements the properties of the crystal itself.

Cat — symbolises curiosity, independence, and protection. Crystal cats encourage creativity, self-knowledge, and trust in one's intuition.

Wolf — symbolises wisdom, loyalty, and a deep connection to family. Crystal wolves encourage confidence, inner strength, and courage.

Elephant — symbolises wisdom, stability, and good fortune. Crystal elephants encourage perseverance, patience, and a sense of groundedness.

Palmstone

A palmstone is shaped similarly to pocket crystals, only it is usually larger, which means it fits perfectly in the palm of your hand.

It is often used during meditation, as it helps establish a sense of inner calm and groundedness. Holding a crystal in your palm can help quieten the mind and bring your attention back to the present moment.

Stand and Bowl

Crystal stands and bowls combine decorative function with practicality. They are often used for storing jewellery, smaller crystals, or other meaningful objects.

Selenite is one of the rare crystals that can energetically cleanse other crystals. Stands and bowls made from selenite are therefore wonderful for storing crystal jewellery and smaller crystals that you carry with you every day.

Cluster

A cluster is made up of multiple crystal points growing from a single matrix, radiating energy in all directions at once. This formation is also associated with the spreading and amplification of balanced energy.

Clusters fill an entire space with their energy and help establish a harmonious atmosphere by neutralising negative energy.

Geode

Geodes form when minerals slowly crystallise inside a cavity or crack in rock. This process can take thousands or even millions of years, which is why geodes are associated with gradual transformation and patient inner growth.

On the outside they often appear quite plain, while their interior conceals a beautiful crystalline structure. For this reason, geodes symbolise hidden beauty and remind us that true magic lies within.

Cube

In sacred geometry, the cube is associated with the element of earth and symbolises stability, structure, and order. Thanks to its symmetrical shape and right-angled faces, it radiates energy in a balanced way and represents organisation and solid foundations.

Crystal cubes are used to support meditation and for moments when we wish to bring a stable, grounded energy into our lives. They are also wonderful for creating a protective energy field in the home or working environment.

"Soulmate" Crystal

A "Soulmate" crystal is a natural formation in which two crystals grow closely together along the full length of one side.

This shape symbolises partnership, balance, and mutual support. Because of its symbolism, it is often used to deepen connection and foster harmony in relationships.

Raw

Raw crystals differ from other forms, such as a natural point, in that they have no clearly defined terminations. Their surfaces are uneven, and so they radiate energy more evenly in all directions.

Because they have not been shaped or polished, they remind us that Nature makes no "mistakes", and that everything is unique and perfect in its natural form. They are often used to establish a deeper connection with the Earth.