Online Crystal Shopping.
- Desiree Cole
- Sep 2, 2021
- 4 min read
There are hundreds of minerals, crystals, gemstones and rocks in the world. As a crystal healer I seek those that are common and those that are more exotic. It can be hard to navigate the many shops online to find the energetic companions you want to work with.
Things like uneducated sellers, multiple trade names, or how to verify authenticity is the leading cause to purchasing wrong items for your healing path. Which sometimes can be a blessing, you may find the stone you needed was not what you originally were seeking. But most of the time it’s just a frustration that can lead any crystal newbie to stop shopping online.
Some tips to help you identify Stones online:
1. Be Aware of Mining Locations: Stones come from the earth and each mine has a unique vein of crystals/gems that are revealed. Amethyst from a Brazilian mind has different characteristics then amethyst from Africa. The energies are different and their quality is different as well. Knowing mining locations for the stone you are seeking can help you identify online if the product being sold is authentic.
2. Colors & Key Word: Be aware that because stones come from different locations, color variations can be vast depending on the stone. Research ahead of time the different colors that are prominent in the gemstone you are seeking to be sure you are aware if a stone is being sold under the wrong name. Also being aware that sometimes stones can be dyed or metal treated can alter the appearance of a stone somewhat. Look for key words such as “Natural, manmade, altered, or enhanced” for clues!
3. Trade Names: Often times a stone is labeled as one name but sold as another, some even have multiple trade names that can be confusing. Being aware of the mineral label and makeup can help you identify if something is being sold incorrectly under the trade name. For Instance Pegmatite is a trade name for a mixture of Lepidolite, Clevelandite, Tourmaline, and Quartz. Pegmatite is often times also called Unicorn Stone. If unicorn stone does not have the makeup of the four minerals then it’s being sold incorrectly.
4. Sales: The Number of sales and reviews on online gemstone sites really help weed out those with poor information and those who know their stock. Asking a seller things such as mining locations, if it’s natural, or other information regarding the gemstone can identify a seller who knows their products and those that just sell rocks. Any reviews from people who say they are receiving incorrect stones also can be a red flag to new buyers.
I would also recommend when buying stones online to have a ruler nearby to correctly measure the length or diameter of the stone you are buying to minimize shock if its larger/smaller then you expected. Size isn’t always everything but when you are expecting one thing and receive something completely out of that range it doesn’t set a good environment for bonding with your new crystal.
Some of my favorite online shops that I trust include:
Sage Goddess: Sage Goddess has both an online website and an Etsy shop that you can browse gemstones. Athena is one of the teachers I have been studying under for two years and I have never seen her list something incorrectly or in a way to deceive her buyers. Their customer service email is also very hand for asking questions regarding a stone you want to purchase and are verifying information on. She also sells other spiritual and healing tools which I often use including sound tools!
Loving Thyself Rocks: This little Etsy shop has BEAUTIFUL High quality items that are breathtaking. She also has a range of more exotic minerals such as tektites in both tumble and some in jewelry form. If you want to work with larger pieces I would recommend her shop.
Sol Path Crystals: This is a smaller Etsy shop that has a wide range of items to choose from. From Tumbled to larger spheres she has a nice stock that a newbie can feel secure they are getting nice quality without breaking the bank.
Tina Michelle Briggs: Tina is actually a fellow student that I have had the pleasure of learning next to in my yearlong spiritual training. She has a little Etsy shop but also shines at live sales if you are one who enjoys the rush of a “live” online sale!
AmberAmerica: This is one of my favorite in person and online gemstone jewelry shops! I received my garnet, iolite, and prehnite ring from this seller. She has a beautiful in person boutique that is present at most local gem shows, but also can be found on ebay! Quick and easy shipping and has beautiful natural stones for her rings and pendants.
These are some of the online shops I know have solid quality and don’t sell fake things. There are MANY other Etsy shops that are good honest shop owners, and it should be an exciting journey to find them! As I learn of new shops I’ll be sure to update my list. Just remember to keep an eye on the mining locations, color, key words, and be willing to ask the shop owner questions before purchasing.
If you ever are worried you aren’t finding a genuine seller for a particular gemstone. Feel free to email me and I will be more than happy to help you search! Happy Shopping.
May you be blessed.
Desiree Cole
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