Crystals are naturally occurring
arrangements of minerals forming distinctive, geometric shapes. The
beauty and unexpected order of crystals have long fascinated people
and there are many artefacts from cultures around the world that contain
crystals. Crystals have long been associated with magical powers.
In recent years, particularly
with the rise of the New Age movement, myths concerning the healing
powers of crystals have been reintroduced to society.
Proponents claim that the healing
properties of crystals rely on 'energy' that crystals are supposed
to give off and that this energy exerts subtle influences on the body,
realigning the bodies 'energy' into more harmonious, natural
and healthy patterns.