The written history of using gemstones for protection can be traced to Biblical times, where the twelve tribes of Israel each revered a distinct type of stone. The stones were used to adorn Israel’s high priest and offer him strength and protection in his role.
The ancient civilizations of Samaria, Egypt, and Greece used stones believed to harbor protective energy as amulets and talismans. They carried pouches containing mixtures of stones to ward off curses, bad luck, and unfriendly paranormal influences. Protective stones were even powdered and taken internally in special foods and elixirs.
Gemstones were cherished for their specific strengths and the traditions passed along until they fell out of popularity during the boom of Victorian Medicine. The stones found their renaissance, though, during the New Age movement of the 20th century when their vibrations were studied and found to have powerful effects on the physiology of living things.
Today, gemstones are used in a variety of energy work including Reiki and chakra cleansing. They are also still highly regarded as powerful amulets and talismans for protection against the effects of the paranormal realm.
Amethyst: This gem is said to promote mental and psychic clarity, to ward off danger, and to bring balance to the conscious and unconscious mind. After carrying this stone on an investigation, cleanse it of negativity under running water.
Obsidian: This stone is used to reduce mental tension and to absorb negative energies. Cleanse it regularly under running water and allow it to rest in the sun for several days before carrying.
Red Jasper: This stone is believed to prevent physical and mental exhaustion, things that can make you more susceptible to psychic drain or attack. Carry this stone in direct contact with the skin, either in hand or as an amulet, and cleanse with running water. For maximum protective qualities, recharge red jasper by storing it with hematite.
Amber: The Greeks called it elektron, meaning “sun-gold”, and believed it enhanced one’s healing powers and decisiveness. Popular legend claims that Amber will absorb negativity around the wearer until it becomes too laden with bad energy when it then will become lost. If the stone feels warm when you hold it, refresh it under running water.
Turquoise: This stone has long been considered a holy stone by Native Americans because of its powerful protective qualities. Artifacts in Egyptian and Greek tombs also show that turquoise was highly revered as a protector in antiquity. Cleanse this stone by allowing it to rest in a bowl of hematite.
Quartz: Clear quartz is thought to be one of the most powerful protective gems because of the intensity of its vibration. Quartz will boost the effects of the stones with which it is carried. Cleanse it daily with running water and a period of rest in direct sunlight.
Each of these gems is considered common and they are widely available through New Age shops, science specialty stores, and from retailers on the internet. Try carrying all of them or a combination of your favorites in a small pouch on your next paranormal investigation. You may notice a decrease in fatigue and a boost in psychic awareness thanks to your stones!
Additional References:
“Healing Crystals and Gemstones” by Dr. Flora Peschek-Bohmer and Gisela Schreiber. Published by Konecky & Konecky, 2003.