Ask and Receive: Using Crystals & Gemstones to Get Life’s Answers

Years ago, I learned the ancient art of stone reading from a venerable Shamanic teacher. This profound method of spiritual guidance predates the creation of tarot cards. In those distant days, when tribes had no paper or writing utensils, seers would use stones to lead the group to sustenance, aid in healing, settle disputes, foresee the future, and answer other crucial questions. 

To read the stone, the shaman would draw a circle in the sand with a line through the middle. A   yes or no question such as, “Is this the right time to move the tribe?” was asked. The shaman drops a river rock on the circle. The closer the rock lands to the left would indicate “no,” while the closer to the right meant “yes.” 

A shaman typically carried a bag full of different types of stones, and the properties of the stones were always considered in the reading. The type of stone is part of the message. Following up on the question about moving, the shaman might ask if help is needed to decide to move and where. If the shaman pulled a blue tiger eye from the bag and it landed nearer the right or the “yes” position, it meant a female was needed to help with the decision. Stones can have different gender properties. The red-brown tiger eye has masculine energy but also shows abuse of power. Thus, if the shaman pulled this tiger eye from the bag, dropped it on the circle, and landed to the right, it could mean that a strong male might block the tribe’s move.

Regrettably, many stones' genuine essence has been obscured over time. Various interpretations have surfaced in books and metaphysical stores that do not align with the stone's true nature. However, a stone’s power remains, and with training, anyone can read stones and effectively harness their specific power.

How to Read Stones

Preparing for a stone reading follows the same process as other shamanic practices. You must learn to still your mind, open your third eye, and reach a trance state. A Pi stone, a polished stone with a hole in the middle, is most helpful in opening our third eye and connecting to spirit guides and upper realms. 

Once you are ready for the reading, take the appropriate stone in your hand and blow your question into it three times. Don’t expect an answer immediately. Wrap the stone in red organic fabric and keep it by your side. The answer should come to you in a moment of inspiration or through a dream.

Commonly Used Stones & Their Properties

Different stones will help you answer specific questions. 

If you are seeking help with financial issues, purchase a malachite. This beautiful stone is a vibrant green with light and dark striations, it brings prosperity and financial growth.

Another favorite is rose quartz. Many people seek my help when searching for a new relationship. I recommend purchasing rose quartz earrings or bracelets for women. Wearing these stones when out in public helps draw in love. A man might want to carry the stone in his pocket when searching for that special someone.

Amethyst is a gemstone or mineral crystal that, when cut or polished, is used to make jewelry or other adornments. But its true strength comes from its healing properties. Give it to someone who needs help with a medical issue.

Many of us must break a pattern such as delaying changing jobs, giving our opinions to family members, or constantly getting angry about minor issues. Carnelian is a wonderful stone to use to change this behavior. 

Crystals have grown in popularity in recent years. Clear quartz is one of the most common stones on earth. Its strength lies in drawing messages from angels, councils, and elders. But you still need to train. Having this stone doesn’t automatically open the door to communicating with the upper realm. You don’t want to mess around with angels. There are rules to working with guides of the highest level.

Remember that stone size doesn’t matter. The strength of the stone isn’t determined by the size or even the quality. While you might prefer to wear a gemstone of higher quality, working with stones is a matter of practice and trust.