The Power of Crystals

I'm often asked about the Power of Crystals, and these post-Yule days, with not much to worry about until Imbolc, give us the chance to explore some of these important questions.  So here we go, on the power and uses of crystals... 


Ice -the sixfold symmetry of the hydrogen-bonded water molecule accounts for the hexagonal beauty of the snowflake.  People tell us they're all unique.  We say - how could they possibly know?  Apart from the obvious answer, who has checked them all?


Sodium Chloride (Common Salt) - especially handy in these frosty conditions.  Thanks to the wonders of the 2nd law of Thermodynamics, salt suppresses the freezing point of water.  Interestingly, it actually melts water while lowering its temperature.  It's true.  Try it.  Isn't science great?

Copper Sulphate (or Sulfate, in the States) - in its dry state is in fact white.  It's hydrated  CuSO4 that is blue.  Little known fact, oft-exploited by sneaky quizmasters.

Diamond - Face-Centred Cubic arrangement in a beautiful lattice.  Lasts nearly forever (but we refer you to the Second Law of Thermodynamics).  The ideal gift for your local Archdruid's birthday (10 January, in case you were wondering...) Say it with diamonds.

Perovskite - always handy if you're looking for that piezoelectric effect.

Quartz  - there are more stars in the universe  than there are grains of sand on the beach.  But I refer you to my comments on snowflakes.  Who counted?

Krystle Carrington - the moral centre of the family in Dynasty.

The Dark Crystal - reasonably good muppet-style fantasy/sci-fi movie.

..... what?  Misunderstood the question?  Spiritual effects of crystals?  Healing?  Do me a favour.... Mind you, the diamonds might make me feel better.... is that spiritual or is it healing?