Sometimes the crystals you are drawn to may not feel good, or a stone that previously felt good may not now. The crystal may need to be cleared. Cleansing the crystal is necessary before using any of them for healing purposes. The clearer the energy of a healing stone, the more powerful it is.
When you first purchase your crystals or healing gemstones, they should be cleansed as soon as purchased and before healing. After every healing they also need to be cleansed, just like a doctor using surgical tools, they must be kept clean. Once the crystal has been cleansed it will feel positive and bright, tingly and cold to the touch. A crystal that needs clearing may feel hot, heavy or drained. There are a number of ways to effectively clear your crystals or gemstones, choose which ever way suits you best.
Salt Water
An excellent source for cleaning your stones, especially clear quartz. Place your crystals in a bowl of salt water, (preferable made up of a sea salt solution) and rinse under cold water. Do not use hot water as this can fracture or break your crystals. This is one of the simplest and quickest ways.
Smudging
This is also a quick way to cleanse your healing stones. Simply hold the smudge stick using cedar or sage. Pass your stick over the stones a few times. You can buy readymade smudge sticks or make your own.
Moonlight
Simply place outside from the Full to the New Moon. Waning moons are also a good time to clear crystals, to dispel old energies, but any time works. The amount of time used varies with the healer and the amount of material from which the stones need cleansing. If you are using gemstone necklaces, then try hanging them from a tree where the moonlight can cleanse them.
Herbs
You could also bury your crystal in a cupful of dried herbs. Suggested herbs for this method are rose petals, sage, sandalwood are just a few. These are usually low cost and are a gentle way to clear crystals and a pleasant way; however, it does take longer than the salt method.
Fire Method
Ideal if you are born under a fire sign, this method will suit you well. Surround your crystals with night-lights or T lights and leave them in the centre whilst the candles burn. Leave until they have burnt out.
Flower Method
This is a simple method, and quite fun. Gather a few flowers or petals and place them in a clear glass container or jar. Cover your crystals under the flowers or petals and leave them for a minimum of 24 hours. Try and choose flowers with a similar colour to the crystal or stone you are cleansing, for example lavender would be helpful for purple amethyst.
Extract taken from Complete Crystal Healing Diploma Course