Crystal shapes - meanings and uses
Just as types of crystals each have their own properties, the shapes in which they are naturally formed or carved can have significance as well. Choosing a specific shape for a crystal can help amplify it's properties and your intention! Here's a little list of some of the available crystal shapes out there, what they mean, and what they do.
Generator: a crystal generator is a six sided point, with all six faces meeting in the center at a point. Generators are usually flat on the bottom, and do occur naturally in some crystals, though it is somewhat rare, and most generators you will see will be carved that way. Some people believe that naturally formed generator crystals are more powerful, though this is really a matter of opinion. Generator crystals are believed to amplify the properties of the crystal and direct energy upward to the universe. Generators are a very good stone to place on an altar, or at the center of a crystal grid. Generators are also a good shape to place in the corners of a room to influence the energy of the space.
Pyramid: like a generator, a pyramid is also used to focus and amplify energy in an upward direction. Pyramids are usually four sided, with the four faces meeting at a point in the center, and a square base. The square base suggests a strong grounding aspect at the same time as directing energy upward. This can be a very nice shape for meditation, and for any protective stone. Pyramids are usually carved, and not naturally occurring.
Sphere: crystal spheres are known to direct energy evenly in all directions. They are also good for acting as a focal point during meditation, and are even believed to help us to see visions in their depths during intense meditation. These visions are believed to be our third eye revealing truths to us.
Cluster: a cluster is a group of points that are all formed from a common base. Clusters are naturally formed, and create a unified energy that radiates outward from the base. Clusters are good for placing around a room to influence the energy of the space, and as the center piece in a crystal grid.
Tumbled: tumbled crystals are said to emit soft, subtle energy in all directions. "Tumbled" means the stones have been polished in a rock tumbler to smooth their surface. Tumbled stones can be very beautiful, as the polishing often highlights the natural color and marking variances in different stones. Tumbled stones are usually on the smaller side, and so can be very good stones to carry with you in your pocket or purse.
Palm stone: Palm stones are usually polished stones that have a flat, disc-like shape. These stones are good to carry with you on your pocket, and even hold in your hand during meditation, or if you are in need of some grounding or calming energy.
Obelisk: These are also standing point shapes, with four sides that meet at a center point. An obelisk will also have a square base for standing. The obelisk shape originated in Ancient Egypt, and was used as a marker for accomplishments, and to honor the gods or the sun. In Ancient Egypt, obelisks were erected in pairs, symbolizing the importance of balance. In modern times, obelisks have been used as markers of importance. This shape also has a strong, stable upward energy, and so would be a great choice to place on top of a written affirmation or desire.
Point: crystal points are typically naturally occurring shapes. A crystal point can have any number of sides and be any size or length. A point could be pointed at one end, or both (double-terminated). Crystal points are best for directing energy in a desired direction by holding them like a wand.
Raw: Raw crystals are un-carved, un-tumbled stones that appear in whatever shape they have come out of the ground in. Raw crystals are said to contain intense, raw energy, and can be believed to be good for big energetic breakthroughs. Some crystals simply look really nice in their raw state.
Geode: A geode is a rock with a sparkly, crystal cavity inside. Geodes are believed to be a strong connection to earth and gravity enery, and can be good for deep meditation.
Egg: egg shaped crystals are often symbols of life, creation, and fertility. Use an egg shaped crystal to grow an intention.
Choosing a crystal shape doesn't have to be complicated, and you won't get less benefit out of your crystals if they are one shape rather than another. Some crystals simply look nicer in one shape versus another, and choosing a crystal shape can be simply a matter of personal preference.
XOXO Chelsea