The generally accepted definition of a crystal is a solid substance with a geometrically regular shape.  The name ?crystal? comes from the Greek ?Krysallos, meaning ice?, because the Greeks believed that rock crystal was water that had been frozen forever by the Gods.

Crystals are available in many shapes and forms.  You can purchase rough stones in their natural state or polished stones that have been tumbled in large, rotating drums filled with water, fine sand is then added to further polish them, a process that takes several weeks.  Both unpolished, natural stones and polished ones provide the same beneficial healing energies.

CLUSTERS - are when several crystals have grown together they are referred to as ?groups?.  Clusters are often placed in rooms to change the energy of the environment and to cleanse and transform negativity into positive energy.  Amethyst clusters are wonderful transformers of negative energy that can be used to cleanse and activate other crystals, as well as rooms.  A cluster is recommended in the work environment to deflect others peoples stress, tension and frustration from you and to draw harmony towards you.

GEODES - a geode is produced when a group of crystals grow together to fill a small hollow or cyst.  Geodes vary enormously in size and shape.  They have a womb-like appearance and bring protection, healing and spiritual growth.

SLICES - sometimes a stone may be cut into slices so that its beauty is revealed.  Crystal slices are an ideal aid to meditation and may also be placed in a room or on the body for healing purposes.

DOUGHNUTS - a doughnut is a round stone with a hole in it.  They are ideal for meditation, for gazing into other dimensions.  They may also be used to draw energy towards you and to clear a blocked chakra.  Natural stones with holes in them have always been thought to bring in luck.

EGGS - crystals may be fashioned into egg shapes.  Such stones fit perfectly into the hand and are ideal for meditation.  Their smooth shape and texture makes them perfect for massage to relieve blockages, while the pointed end can be used for such therapies as reflexology and acupressure.

CRYSTAL BALLS - crystal balls or spheres may either be natural or fabricated.  They are used to gaze into the past or the future or to evaluate a current situation.

PYRAMIDS - pyramid-shaped crystals focus and amplify energy through their apex.  They are often used to charge and preserve objects.

SINGLE TERMINATED CRYSTALS - a single terminated crystal has one flat end and on pointed, or terminated end, with energy being focused within the terminated end.  Such crystals are mainly used for healing and meditation.  The healing energies are concentrated through the point of the crystal.

DOUBLE TERMINATED CRYSTALS - a double terminated crystal has a point at both ends, enabling energy to move in one or both directions and to be transmitted, or drawn in, through both ends.  Such crystals may be used for healing , placed under the pillow to encourage dreams or carried to provide protection.

There are several other shapes but these are the main ones as an introduction.