How to find ethically sourced crystals (and how they can help you)

There has been an increase in interest and use of crystals in recent years. Thanks in part to the popularity caused by influencers talking about the benefits crystals and crystal healing can have in helping with a range of physical, emotional, and spiritual issues, more and more people have become aware of the benefits of crystal healing. 

While this rise in awareness can have positive impacts around understanding and acceptance, it can also lead to issues around how many crystals are being sourced – and if the process is being done ethically. Here, we explain more about ethically sourced crystals. 

Are crystals ethically sourced?

Ethically sourced crystals are mined in a socially and environmentally responsible way that treats the earth with care and respect during the mining process. This can help ensure that the process is as sustainable as possible. It can also include ensuring that all employees involved in the process are paid fairly, from those who mine the crystals through the supply chain and those who sell the crystals themselves. 

There are two main areas to consider when figuring out if crystals have been ethically sourced, these include:

• The environmental impact of the mining. Mining crystals can result in significant holes left behind in nature, as well as many trees being removed as part of the process. An ethically sourced crystal will have been mined without leaving significant or irrevocable damage behind.
• The treatment of workers. Have those involved in the process of sourcing crystals been paid fairly and treated respectfully? 

As more and more consumers are becoming aware of the importance of ethical sourcing across different industries, it means that more companies are changing in response to this demand. So, the more you prioritise making sure that any crystals you buy are ethically sourced, the more it encourages the industry to keep and develop good practices.

The benefits of ethically sourced crystals

Buying ethically sourced crystals can have a number of benefits. Many people believe that the quality of ethically sourced gems is noticeably better. This can mean it may be more beautiful or vibrant than non-ethically sourced crystal. 

Ethically sourced crystals may have better energy, thanks to the more careful extraction process and higher quality materials that may be used during the process. Crystals sourced from ethical companies ensure that crystals and where they are extracted from are both treated with care and respect during the process. The extra time and care spent throughout the process can also mean that it may be more expensive, as you are paying for this extra time, care and consideration.     

How to know if crystals are ethically sourced

When looking to purchase ethically sourced crystals, ask the shop to provide more information if you cannot see anything listed on their website or in-store. Genuine ethically sourced crystal shops are often happy to provide more detailed information about the steps taken to ensure all of their products are sourced ethically. This could mean that they are transparent about which locations their products are sourced from. 

You could try asking:

• where the crystal was mined
• if it was mined using environmentally responsible techniques
• if miners are paid fairly and work in a safe environment 

Checking out reviews and feedback from other customers can also be a helpful starting point for the quality of the crystals offered. Reviews and feedback can be an indication, as lower-quality crystals may have been mined with less care and attention. 

If you see extremely low or unrealistic prices compared to other ethically sourced stores and products, this can also be a sign that crystals may not be ethically sourced. The increased cost of sourcing things ethically can result in more expensive crystals, as everyone along the supply chain has been paid fairly. As with all things in life: if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

What are ethically sourced crystals used for?

Ethically sourced crystals can be used for any number of different things, including making jewellery, as decor, and as part of crystal healing. 

Crystal healing revolves around the idea that crystals can interact with our body’s energy, helping create balance and alignment. Some people use crystals to help promote good energy or get rid of negative energy, as well as for a whole range of benefits including aiding with sleep, reducing stress, improving confidence, and promoting self-love. 

Anyone who approaches crystal healing with an open mind can experience the benefits. You can start using crystals at home by yourself, or work with a therapist to try crystal healing. Find out more about what is involved in crystal healing sessions and how they could help you.