Everything begins with the intention.
Gems and crystals have their own natural energy, which they willingly share with us and which affects the energy field of the person closest to them. They are like an energy sponge – they absorb the energy of people they come into contact with, but they also absorb the energy of places they are located. So when they get charged with negative energy, not only will they not be able to help us, but even having them can start to harm us over time.
Therefore, if you would like to cleanse your stone before you use it for the first time or change an intention you have already used, here is a short guide on how to do it.
So, let’s start from the beginning.
In order for your Tilsam to receive a new intention – it first requires cleansing from previous intentions or energies of others.
Purification:
1. Water
Water is said to neutralize any negative energy stored in the stone and return it back to the earth. Dip the gem in water and let it sit for 1 minute. Make sure the gem is completely submerged. When finished – drain the gem.
Note: For Ethiopian opals – this method will not be a good method as it will rob your gem of its luster for a few days. For this gem choose another method.
2. Salt
Salt has been used throughout history to absorb unwanted energy and ward off negative vibrations. If you are near the ocean, consider collecting a bowl of fresh salt water. Otherwise, add a tablespoon of sea salt, rock salt or table salt to your bowl of water. Make sure your gem is completely submerged and let it soak for a few hours. When finished – drain the gem.
Note: In the case of Ethiopian opals – this method will not be good because it will take away your gem’s brilliance for a few days. Choose another method for this gem.
3. Brown rice
This method can also be used to extract negative energy from a gem in a safe environment. It is especially beneficial for protective gems such as tourmalines. To do this, fill a bowl with dry brown rice and bury the gem under the grains. Discard the rice immediately after cleansing, as it has absorbed the energy you are trying to eliminate.
Approximate time: 24 hours.
Use this for: any gem.
4. Light
Although ritual cleansing often centers around certain points in the solar or lunar cycle, you can expose your gem to the light of the sun or moonlight at any time – to cleanse and recharge it. Expose it just before nightfall and finish charging it before 11am. This will allow the gem to bathe in both moonlight and sunlight.
Approximate time: 10 to 12 hours.
Use this for: any gem.
5. Sage or Palo Santo
Sage is a sacred plant with many healing properties. Palo Santo is a sacred tree with a unique scent. Fumigating a stone with them is said to remove disharmonious vibrations and restore the gem’s natural energy.
You will need:
fireproof bowl
lighter or matches
loose or tied sage or Palo Santo
When you are ready, light the sage or Palo Santo with the flame. Transfer it to your non-dominant hand, grasp your stone firmly and move it through the smoke. Allow the smoke to surround the gem for about 30 seconds. If it has been a while since your last cleansing – or you feel your gem needs it – consider surrounding your gem for an additional 30 seconds.
Approximate time: about 30 to 60 seconds per gem.
Use this for: any gem.
6. Sound
Sound cleansing allows a single tone to wash over an area, giving it the same vibration. This can be accomplished with singing bowls, a camertone, or a bell. It does not matter what the sound is, as long as the sound emitted is loud enough for the vibration to fully encompass the stone.
Approximate time: 5 to 10 minutes.
Use this for: any gem.
7. Visualization
While this is considered the safest way to cleanse gems, some may find it intimidating and just plain difficult at first. But it is like meditation: The more you practice, the better you get. So don’t give up right away. Take a few minutes to ground and center your energy, then pick up your gem and visualize your hands filling with white, radiant light. See how this light surrounds the gem and feel it glowing in your hands. Imagine the impurities washing out of the gem, making the stone shine brighter and have a new purpose. Continue this visualization until you feel the energy of the gem change.
Approximate time: approximately 1 minute per gem.
Use this for: any gem.
Now that your Tilsam has been cleansed of previous energy using your chosen method – it is time to program it with a new intention.
What is the Intention of your Tilsam?
Setting an intention for a gem essentially means giving it a purpose. While it is clear from lithotherapy what each gem’s innate healing properties are, taking the time to set an intention for the gem can help you connect with its energy and establish your own purpose.
You can do this by holding the gem in your hand during meditation, or by placing it over your third eye. You can also lie down and allow the gem to rest on the appropriate chakra or area of the body you wish to work with. Imagine the stone’s energy merging with yours. Talk to the stone and ask for its help in working through your current venture. Then thank the gem for its presence. When you are finished, you may wish to spend a few minutes in further meditation or breathwork.
Your intuition will guide you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I have to clean my Tilsam?
The more often you use a gem, the more energy it collects. A good rule of thumb is to clean all gems at least once a month.
However, if a single gem seems heavier than usual, clean it. You do not have to wait until the prescribed month has passed.
What is the best method for cleansing Tilsams?
Find a method that resonates with you. What works best for you may not work as well for someone else, so pay attention to what just feels right to you.
How do I know when the Tilsam is purified?
The gem in it should be energetically and physically lighter. It should shine. If you notice that it is losing its shine – then it is time for purification.
What should I do with my Tilsams after purification?
Find a safe place to store your Tilsams. If you can, keep them near windows or plants so they can absorb their natural healing energy. Make sure they don’t rub against or scratch each other.
When we take care of our Tilsams, we also take care of ourselves. We allow the energy that is out of harmony with our intentions to leave in a peaceful and healing way.
These are small steps, but taking them will allow us to be more mindful in our interactions with our Tilsams, with our environment, with ourselves, and with other people.
Be the energy you want to attract.