Recently I ran into a friend who told me they'd been going through a tough time with work. When asked how he'd been dealing with things, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a green crystal tinged with brown. He said he felt in need of something energetically supportive to guide him through this time and he'd been told that amazonite crystals were soothing for the nervous system and brain.

I'm no stranger to the power of spiritual support, having grown up in a town with more crystal shops than supermarkets. Admittedly though, I've been sceptical in the past. Seeing how just holding the stone seemed to calm him though, I became increasingly curious about crystals and their meanings. If you've been wondering how you can harness this ancient power, we've done the research and outlined 10 major crystals and how they can assist you.

Crystals have been used for centuries for their perceived metaphysical properties and healing energies. Individual's experiences with crystals can vary quite drastically but the most important thing is to trust your intuition when selecting and working with crystals. They are often used to assist in meditation or energy healing practices or to spruce up your living space. To truly understand how you can work with crystals, it's best to work with an experienced crystal practitioner. Read on to discover more about the energetic nature of crystals and their meanings.

1. Clear Quartz

If you're someone who experiences indecision or anxiety, clear quartz is a stone worth getting in touch with. Known as the "master healer," clear quartz is believed to amplify energy and promote clarity of thought. It is often used for manifestation, meditation, and cleansing of negative energy. It can also be used alongside meditation, and to improve one's memory and provide clarity of mind.

 2. Amethyst

The Amethyst crystal is a helpful aid when it comes to assisting with sleep and peace of mind. It is also said to be helpful when battling with headaches and strengthening your immune system. A purple crystal is often associated with spirituality and tranquility. It is believed to promote inner peace, enhance intuition, and aid in meditation and spiritual growth. This stone provides clarity and enhances conscious perception and understanding.

3. Rose Quartz

Known as the "stone of love," rose quartz is associated with compassion, self-love, and emotional healing. It is believed to attract love and harmonise relationships. This could be a good crystal to keep close if you're needing a bit of extra support in the friendship or romantic department to soothe the soul and protect your centre.

4. Citrine

A yellow crystal is associated with abundance, prosperity, and positive energy. Citrine is believed to enhance motivation, creativity, and self-confidence. The Citrine might be helpful if you're manifesting a new opportunity to keep motivated.

5. Black Tourmaline

A protective stone is often used to repel negative energy and promote grounding. Black tourmaline is believed to shield against electromagnetic radiation and psychic attacks. This is a good stone to seek out if you're searching for something to ground you. It also is said to have properties that aid the immune system and provide pain relief.

6. Lapis Lazuli

A deep blue crystal associated with wisdom, intuition, and spiritual insight. Lapis lazuli is believed to enhance communication, clarity, and spiritual growth. Bring it into your life if you want to connect with your inner wisdom, or attract a promotion or recognition in your field.

7. Selenite

A white, translucent crystal known for its cleansing and purifying properties. Selenite is believed to remove stagnant energy, promote mental clarity, and facilitate spiritual connection. It also soothes nerves and enhances willpower, making it a great option to embrace before going on a date or diving into a new relationship.

8. Carnelian

An orange-red crystal associated with vitality, motivation, and creativity. Carnelian is believed to stimulate ambition, enhance confidence, and inspire action. This crystal is also known to stimulate metabolism, circulation, and blood flow. It also gives us the courage and clarity to make life decisions.

9. Labradorite

A stone with iridescent colours that is associated with intuition, psychic abilities, and spiritual awakening. Labradorite is believed to enhance spiritual awareness and protect against negative energies. It also stimulates intuition and balances hormones and treats colds. It's the perfect crystal to have nearby during the colder months.

10. Hematite

A metallic black crystal is known for its grounding and protective properties. Hematite is believed to promote strength, courage, and vitality. It is also known to balance and support your body and home so could be the perfect option if you're moving house.

If you're still curious about the mystical world of crystals, learn more about how they work when combined with candles. If you've already in touch with crystals and their meanings, you might want to familiarise yourself with the best way to cleanse your crystals.