Have you ever taken a geology class? Even if you haven’t, you might still remember the basics from elementary school science: sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. While the building blocks of earth science are important to understand, there’s more to rocks and crystals than how they are formed. Rocks and crystals have been given metaphysical significance across cultures and religions for centuries and have been used to impact the energy in a space or bring an earthy balance to manmade construction. Crystals may have a reputation as being woo-woo, but they are simply another natural element that can work wonders in your home. Whether you introduce marble countertops or amethyst bookends, here’s how you can achieve a stylish look with significance.

SUPPORTIVE STONES

There are a lot of forces in everyday life that can be draining. With traffic stress, financial woes, and work deadlines, it’s important that the space you come home to is filled with colors, textures, and materials that create a peaceful setting. Rocks and crystals can be used to help balance emotions, enhance spirituality, increase self-worth, and aid in self-care. If you’re looking for just the right rocks to fit your needs, pick up a book like The Crystal Bible: A Definitive Guide to Crystals by Judy Hall. The author, who has forty years of experience as a crystal healer, uses her extensive knowledge to make it easy to get started with crystals.

POPULAR OPTIONS

You’ve surely seen plenty of rocks and crystals making appearances over the years in professionally presented home designs. While they were a huge hit in the ’70s, their popularity waxed and waned over the years. In the last decade, agate coasters became a low-key hit, which made way for rock or crystal bookends, lamps, and the like. Some stones are easier to find than others, and their simple color complements a wide variety of interior styles. Clear quartz is a sure winner, as it lends intriguing shape, light, and texture, but no color. Citrine (a yellow-orange stone often used to attract wealth) is a natural earth tone that’s easy to find and use. Rose quartz (pink) and amethyst (purple) lend a feminine look and energy, but when used sparingly they can still look chic in gender-neutral designs.

AROUND THE HOUSE

You likely have rocks and crystals in your home’s interiors without even realizing it. Are your countertops or floors made of stone? Do you have rock on your fireplace surround? Complement the existing natural finishes in your home with simple accessories. If you have a home office, consider adding a polished stone paperweight or quartz drawer pulls. Corral your book collection with agate bookends. In any room, a crystal with a hole drilled into it can serve as a candleholder or a succulent planter. Fill a terrarium with your favorite geodes to create a crystal garden. Frame a series of your favorite gems and hang them in the hallway. Or, honor your favorite places by displaying the region’s native rocks or gemstones.