Lithotherapy, also known as "stone therapy," is an ancient practice that involves using crystals and minerals to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

This method is based on the idea that stones naturally emit vibrational energy capable of interacting with the human aura and rebalancing energies. Each stone possesses a unique vibrational signature that can be used to address various ailments and promote healing, often by working on the chakras, the body's energy centers.

Origins and history of lithotherapy

The use of stones and their therapeutic properties dates back several millennia. Ancient civilizations such as the Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Hebrews, Greeks, Aztecs, Japanese, Chinese, and Indians incorporated minerals into their traditional medical and spiritual practices.

For example, the Nippur tablets, dating from Mesopotamia, provide evidence of the use of minerals and plants in medicine at the time. These tablets, which are over 4,000 years old, offer valuable insights into the medical practices of ancient Mesopotamia. The Mesopotamians believed that minerals and plants had healing properties and could be used to treat a variety of diseases and medical conditions. The Nippur tablets also provide information on the methods of preparation and administration of remedies, as well as the rituals and ceremonies associated with medicine at that time.

In Egypt, malachite was used not only for its healing virtues but also as spiritual protection, while lapis lazuli symbolized the divine connection with the heavens.

The Greeks believed that amethyst protected against drunkenness, and warriors wore hematite amulets to strengthen themselves before battle.

Chinese and Aztec cultures also valued stones for their spiritual virtues. Jade, called "the stone of heaven," was revered in China for its association with immortality and purity. For the Aztecs, obsidian, a sacred stone, was used to craft ritual and protective objects.

In 1644, Emperor Rudolph II’s physician, Anselmus Boetius de Boodt, published a 750-page work entitled *Le Parfait Joaillier ou Histoire des Pierres* (The Perfect Jeweler or History of Stones), in which he discussed the healing properties of stones. This book is an essential reference in the field of lithotherapy, as it compiles the knowledge and beliefs of the time regarding the therapeutic virtues of stones. It also explains the superstitions and rituals associated with each stone, as well as the magical practices attributed to them.

Similarly, in 1748, *L’Encyclopédie des Drogues* by M. Lémery, written by Louis XIV’s physician, also mentions the virtues of stones. This work, which was authoritative in pharmacology at the time, provides enlightening insights into the use of stones in traditional medicine.

In the 19th century, Monsieur Guibourt, a professor at the École Supérieure de Pharmacie in Paris, published *Histoire des Drogues Simples* (History of Simple Drugs) in three volumes, with the first volume focusing on minerals.

Lithotherapy experienced a revival in the 20th century with the New Age movement of the 1970s, promoting a return to holistic and gentle healing practices. Authors such as Katrina Raphaell helped popularize the use of crystals to foster emotional and spiritual harmony. Today, this practice is often associated with chakra balancing and the pursuit of overall energetic well-being.

How to use healing stones

Stones are believed to emit beneficial energy for individuals, with each stone offering unique properties. These properties are often associated with specific colors, which, beyond their physical and spiritual virtues, play an important psychological role. For instance, green, the color of nature and healing, symbolizes balance and renewal. Emerald and jade are therefore often used to soothe and promote physical and emotional regeneration. Blue, on the other hand, is linked to mental clarity and tranquility, with stones such as lapis lazuli or turquoise, which help open communication and calm emotional tension.

Stones can be worn on the body (as pendants, earrings, bracelets, rings, etc.) or placed in a room of the house. There are also recommendations for using the properties of stones through elixirs.
Stone elixirs are a particular method of using the vibrational energies of crystals. The stone is immersed in water, allowing its energetic properties to transfer to the liquid. However, it is important to note that some stones can release toxic or corrosive substances. Thus, for stones like malachite or galena, it is recommended to use the indirect method by placing the stone in a separate container before immersing it. On the other hand, stones such as rose quartz or amethyst can be used directly in water without risk.

Stones are also used in Kundalini Yoga and the concept of the seven chakras, where they are believed to help unblock and balance the different chakras. Chakras are energy centers located along the spine, and each chakra is associated with a specific color.

• Root Chakra (Muladhara): Located at the base of the spine, it is associated with the color red and the earth element. Red jasper or hematite are used to enhance grounding, increase vitality, and connect to the stabilizing energy of the earth.
• Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Associated with the color orange, this chakra is linked to creativity, sexuality, and emotions. Carnelian stimulates creative vitality and sexual energy.
• Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Yellow in color, this energy center is associated with self-confidence and willpower. Citrine or golden topaz promote self-esteem and determination.
• Heart Chakra (Anahata): Located in the center of the chest, this chakra is related to love and emotional healing. Green stones, such as emerald or jade, support heart healing, while rose quartz encourages love and self-acceptance.
• Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Represented by the color blue, it is the center of communication and self-expression. Lapis lazuli or aquamarine are often used to promote clarity in exchanges and authenticity.
• Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): This indigo-colored chakra is associated with intuition and inner vision. Amethyst and sapphire help open consciousness and foster introspection.
• Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Represented by violet, it is linked to spirituality and the connection to the divine. Clear quartz and amethyst are often used to elevate the spirit and stimulate higher awareness.

Today, lithotherapy is experiencing a resurgence of interest in wellness and spiritual development practices. Rituals such as meditating with crystals or crystal baths, where stones are immersed in water during a bath to benefit from their energies, are becoming increasingly popular. By placing stones around the body or in one’s everyday environment, practitioners aim to create a harmonious atmosphere that supports healing, relaxation, and personal growth.

Color symbolism with stones

The symbolism of gemstone colors plays a central role in lithotherapy, with each color being linked to specific energetic properties. Depending on cultural beliefs and traditions, these associations may vary, but their common goal is to amplify physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Whether calming the mind with blue stones or stimulating vitality with red stones, each hue contributes to harmonizing the body and spirit.

 

Color symbolism with stones Black Blue Brown Dark blue Gold Green Grey Light blue Orange Pink Purple Red Silver White and transparent Yellow

 

History and contribution of metals

Metals hold an important place in lithotherapy, just like gemstones. Since ancient times, they have been seen as energy conductors, capable of amplifying or channeling energy. Used alone or in combination with stones, metals such as gold, silver, copper, or iron are believed to promote balance and harmony of the body and mind, aiding in the circulation of healing energies.

 

History and contribution of metals Brass Copper Gold Silver

 

History and vertues of stones

Stone properties and virtues already present on our website