Crystals and gemstones are beautiful tools for healing and transformation — but like us, they absorb energy from their surroundings. To keep them working at their highest potential, it's important to cleanse, recharge, and occasionally reprogramme them with intention.
At Charms Of Light®, all crystals and gemstone jewellery are lovingly cleansed and Reiki-enhanced before they arrive at your door. But over time, they naturally collect energy that can dull their sparkle and effectiveness. Whether you're using them for healing, meditation, or creating a gem elixir, keeping your stones energetically clear is key.
Let’s dive into the most effective methods to cleanse and programme your crystals — how to care for crystal jewellery, and which stones are safe in water.
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There are many ways to clear your crystals of unwanted energy. You don’t have to use all of them — simply choose the one that resonates with you and your stones.
If you're attuned to Reiki, you already hold a powerful gift for healing and cleansing crystals. Simply hold your stone in your hands and allow the Universal Life Force to flow through you into the crystal. If you are Reiki Level 2, you may wish to enhance the cleansing with the mental/emotional symbol for deeper energetic alignment.
Both the full moon and new moon are ideal times to cleanse and charge your crystals. Place them outside or on a windowsill overnight. Don’t worry about cloudy skies — the moon’s energy still reaches them.
The sun’s rays are powerful for cleansing and recharging. Even on a cloudy day, they work wonders. Just be cautious: some crystals can fade in direct sunlight (like Amethyst or Rose Quartz).
Crystals come from the Earth — so it makes sense to return them there for a recharge. Gently bury your crystals in soil (even in a potted plant!) for 24 hours. If your stones are part of jewellery, cover them with cloth to prevent dirt getting into settings.
Hold your crystal under clear, purified water to wash away negative energy. Avoid tap water, and check if your stone is water-safe first — some can dissolve or become damaged.
Salt is a natural purifier, but it can be too harsh for softer stones. Instead of placing crystals directly into salt, try this:
Mix sea salt with purified water in a glass bowl and submerge your water-safe stones. Leave for about 24 hours, then dry gently. Skip this method for soft or porous crystals.
Place your crystals in a bowl of uncooked brown rice overnight. It absorbs negative energy without any risk to your stone. Be sure to throw the rice away afterward.
Smudging with sage, sweetgrass, sandalwood, or incense is a quick and effective way to cleanse crystals. Light your smudge stick and pass your stones through the smoke. This works well for all types of stones.
Place smaller crystals inside a singing bowl (or place larger ones nearby). Play the bowl for a few minutes with focused intention to clear and recharge your stones.
Don’t underestimate the power of your own energy. Simply hold your crystal, focus your thoughts, and ask the Universe or your Angels to cleanse and re-energise it. Trust your intuition — and always give thanks when you’re done.
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Crystal jewellery is not only energetically powerful — it is also delicate and deserves mindful care. Here's how to keep both its physical beauty and energetic clarity intact:
Even if a stone is water-safe, jewellery settings often aren’t. Avoid wearing crystal jewellery while bathing, swimming, or doing dishes. Water can weaken metal fastenings and damage softer stones.
Perfume, lotions, hairspray, and cleaning products can dull the stone’s shine and affect the metal. Apply these products before wearing your jewellery, and let them dry fully.
Prolonged sun exposure can cause some stones — like Amethyst and Rose Quartz — to fade. Store your jewellery in a soft pouch or box, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after each wear. If needed, use a lightly damp cloth with purified water only. Avoid soaps or abrasive materials unless you’re certain the stone and metal can handle it.
For jewellery, it’s best to stick with gentle cleansing methods like moonlight, Reiki, Selenite, or intention. Avoid salt and water cleansing unless you know both the stone and metal are safe.
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Some crystals are perfectly fine in water, while others can crumble, rust, or release toxins. When in doubt, choose a dry method.
Avoid water if your crystal is soft, flaky, or contains metal inclusions.
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Crystals and gemstones naturally carry their own energetic and healing properties, and you can benefit from these simply by keeping them near you or working with them in a general way — there’s no need to programme them for them to be effective. However, if you have a specific intention or purpose in mind — such as support with emotional healing, focus, protection, or manifestation — you can choose to programme your stone to align more directly with that goal. Programming helps to attune the crystal’s energy with your personal intention, essentially giving it a "job" to do. If you’d like to do this, here are some simple steps to guide you through the process.
Think clearly about what you want. Be specific — whether it’s attracting love, boosting confidence, or releasing fear.
Begin by tuning into your intuition — often, you'll feel naturally drawn to the stone that's right for you. As you explore your options, notice which crystals catch your eye or feel good to hold. For example, if you're feeling anxious, you might be drawn to the calming energy of Amethyst, Lepidolite, or Blue Lace Agate. If you're seeking motivation or creative inspiration, Carnelian, Citrine, or Sunstone might call to you. Use these suggestions as a guide, but ultimately, trust your instincts — they're your best tool in choosing the crystal you need most.
Always start with a clean slate. Use any of the methods above to remove old energies or previous programming.
Hold the crystal quietly in your hands. Focus your mind, clear out distractions, and either speak your intention aloud or visualise it flowing into the stone. Repeat until you feel the energy settle. You’ll know when it’s done.
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Caring for your crystals — both loose stones and jewellery — keeps their energy vibrant and aligned with your own. Whether you’re new to crystal healing or a long-time practitioner, regular cleansing, intention-setting, and mindful care ensures you get the most from your stones.
Your crystals are more than just beautiful objects — they are energetic allies. Keep them clear, keep them charged, and let them support you on your journey.
Originally published 1 March 2015 | Updated 3 July 2025
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