Using crystals in water—for both cleansing and creating a crystal elixir (often called “gem water” or simply “elixir”)—is a popular practice among crystal enthusiasts. However, not all crystals are suitable for submersion in water. Some may dissolve, release toxic substances, or sustain physical damage when exposed to moisture. Below is an expanded guide outlining which crystals should be kept away from water, why they are sensitive, and offering alternative methods for cleansing or transferring energy in water safely.
Crystals to Avoid Placing in Water
Selenite
Why:
Selenite is very soft, with a Mohs hardness of only 2, making it highly soluble in water. Prolonged contact with water can lead to erosion, dissolution, and loss of its unique structure.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Use smoke cleansing (smudging) with sage, employ sound vibrations (e.g., from a crystal singing bowl), or place selenite under moonlight to clear its energy without direct physical contact.
Malachite
Why:
Malachite contains copper, which can leach into water and create a toxic solution if ingested. Moisture can also cause malachite to oxidize and lose its signature bright green color.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Cleanse malachite by placing it on a bed of dry salt or immersing it in rice. Short exposure to sunlight can also be effective, but avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can overheat the stone.
Hematite
Why:
Due to its high iron content, hematite is prone to rust when in contact with water. Rust not only damages the stone’s surface but can also make it unsafe to handle.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Use smoke cleansing, sound cleansing, or place hematite on a quartz cluster to absorb and neutralize unwanted energies without water exposure.
Lepidolite
Why:
Lepidolite contains lithium, which can leach into water and be harmful if ingested. Additionally, this crystal is relatively soft and may begin to wear down or flake when submerged.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Allow lepidolite to cleanse under gentle moonlight or sunlight, or use sound vibrations from a crystal singing bowl to refresh its energy.
Azurite
Why:
Much like malachite, azurite contains copper and is highly sensitive. Water exposure can release harmful substances and physically damage the crystal.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Cleanse azurite by smoke cleansing with sage, placing it on a bed of dry rice, or using the energy of other solid crystals such as clear quartz or amethyst for indirect purification.
Calcite
Why:
Calcite is fairly soft and can gradually dissolve in water, causing it to lose its shape, become brittle, or even dissolve entirely.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Rely on sound cleansing, smoke cleansing, or brief, indirect sunlight to rejuvenate calcite’s energy without structural damage.
Fluorite
Why:
Fluorite is somewhat water-soluble, especially if it contains impurities. Prolonged exposure can cause color fading or physical damage.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Use gentle moonlight or sunlight for cleansing, or place fluorite on a selenite plate to draw out and redirect negative energy.
Pyrite
Why:
Often called “fool’s gold,” pyrite can oxidize in water, potentially forming sulfuric acid. This not only damages the crystal but can also create a dangerous substance.
Alternative Cleansing Methods:
Opt for smoke cleansing, sound vibrations, or place pyrite on a larger crystal cluster to cleanse its energy without direct water contact.
Safe Crystal Elixir Preparation
When preparing crystal elixirs—water infused with a crystal’s energetic properties—it’s crucial to use only those stones safe for direct water immersion. Many types of quartz (clear quartz, rose quartz, amethyst) are generally stable and do not release harmful substances in water.
Direct and Indirect Methods
Direct Method:
Place safe crystals directly in the water to charge it with their energy. Make sure the water is clean and, if possible, use a glass container to avoid chemical reactions.
Indirect Method:
If a crystal should not come into direct contact with water, use the indirect method. Put the crystal in a smaller glass container, then set that container inside a larger vessel filled with water. This way, the water picks up the crystal’s energetic signature without direct contact, minimizing the risk of dissolution or contamination.
Although many crystals can safely interact with water, knowing which ones to keep dry is essential to avoid dissolution, toxicity, or physical damage. By understanding each crystal’s properties and choosing the right cleansing or energy transfer methods, you can enjoy all the benefits your crystals have to offer safely and effectively. Always research the properties of each crystal thoroughly and follow safety guidelines to support your spiritual and healing practices responsibly.
For more detailed information about safe crystal practices, visit our website. Stay informed, choose wisely, and enjoy your crystal journey with confidence and responsibility!