Prehistoric Use of Crystals
Archaeologists
have discovered in graves and barrows excavated in Europe, the Middle East,
Russia, and Africa beads, carvings, and jewelry of amber, jet, turquoise,
lapis, garnet, carnelian, quartz, and other stones. It is believed that the
carvings were probably amulets and talismans, used for protection and as reminders
of religious rites.
Some of the discovered stones were carved in the shape of various animals,
and were probably symbols of particular totems. Others were necklaces and
other items of adornment. The value given to crystals in these various cultures
is indicated by their presence in the graves; they were intended to go with
the departed soul to help them in the next life.
A striking example of prehistoric reverence for crystals is the solar temple,
Newgrange. This ancient passage grave in the Boyne Valley of Ireland, which
is older than the pyramids, was built so that the sun would stream through
the 70-foot-long entrance tunnel on the Winter Solstice. Its roof was originally
covered with white quartz, to symbolize the White Goddess.
Crystal
Skulls
One of the
most remarkable archaeological discoveries has been that of anatomically perfect
crystal skulls. According to the many sources they defy modern dating techniques;
estimates are that they are at least 20,000 years old. One of the best-known
of these is the Mitchell-Hedges skull. Its origins are disputed. Some believe
that it was discovered by Anna Mitchell-Hedges, the daughter of archaeologist
F.A. Mitchell-Hedges, in Guatemala; others claim that the archaeologist bought
it in London. Although the specific purpose for the carving and use of the
crystal is unknown, those who have spent time with it have reported a variety
of mystical experiences.
Ancient
Egypt
Crystal was
widely used in this civilization. A hieroglyphic papyrus from the year 2000
B.C. documents a medical cure using a crystal, and several from the year 1500
B.C. have additional prescriptions.
Lapis was considered to be a royal stone. It was often pulverized and made
into a poultice to be rubbed into the crown of the head. It was believed that
as it dried it drew out all spiritual impurities.
The pharaohs often had their headdresses lined with malachite in the belief
that it helped them to rule wisely. In powder form this stone was used for
poor eyesight and inner vision.
Many other stones were found in the tombs, including carnelian, turquoise,
and tiger's eye. These were often shaped into amulets, shields, and into the
shapes of hearts, the Eye of Horus, and scarabs.
The Egyptians used malachite Haematite and chrysocolla ground down and sprinkled
onto wounds and that Galen and Pliny used haematite for headaches
Native
American
The original
settlers of North, Central, and South America used crystals widely for spiritual,
ceremonial, and healing purposes,Milky quartz for example was used and still
is in some native
American societies as part of the "Lightening dance." when struck together
rapidly the crystals start to glow (this we refer to as phosphoroluminecence.)and
as the crystals become so bright they symbolise the lightening.
Crystals also served practical purposes, as well. The ancient Mexicans, for
example, made mirrors out of pyrite. Obsidian served both practical and ritual
purposes. The Mayans used it for ceremonial knives, and and other tribes believed
that it served to sharpen both outer and inner vision. Turquoise was believed
to be a stone which bridged heaven and earth (a belief also held in Tibet).
In one legend it is stated that if one went to the end of the rainbow and
dug in the earth he would find a turquoise.(In Australian Abourigine culture
it is said that Opal is the stone found at the end of the rainbow due to its
colours and as such is extremely lucky.)
Mayan Indians used quartz crystals for both the diagnosis and treatment of
disease. Some Mexican Indian tribes believed that the souls of those who led
good lives would go into crystals.
China
and Japan
Quartz was
traditionally revered in the Far East, especially in carved form. Quartz crystal
balls were considered to represent the heart or essence of the dragon. Dragons
were thought to have great power, and a deeper meaning for "dragon" is that
of a very wise and evolved individual.
The stone most associated with China is jade. It was termed the concentrated
essence of love. Many kinds of amulets are carved from this stone, including
those for friendship and for romantic love. A jade butterfly was a symbol
of successful love.
India
The culture
of ancient India is a rich source of information about crystals. The system
of chakras (energy centers), which helps us to place crystals on the body
for healing and meditation originated there. Astrological documents written
as early as 400 B.C. contain detailed observations about the power of various
stones to counteract the negative effects of planetary positions.
Stones were regarded as having great spiritual and emotional powers. Moonstone,
for instance, was a sacred stone, and believed to arouse love. Onyx, in contrast,
was believed to help release the ties of old loves. The ruby was a highly
valued gemstone, and was known as the "king of precious stones."
The connection between humans and crystals is especially vivid in the following
verses from the Vedas (Hindu sacred texts):
There is an endless net of threads
Throughout the universe.
The horizontal threads are in space.
The vertical threads are in time.
At every crossing of the threads,
There is an individual,
And every individual
Is a crystal bead.
The great light of absolute being
Illuminates and penetrates
Every crystal bead, and also,
Every crystal bead reflects
Not only the light
From every other crystal in the net,
But also every reflection
Of every reflection
Throughout the universe.
taken from a brief history of crystals