Why do we NOT clean crystals with water?

Although water cleansing is a popular and historically classic method for clearing negative energy from crystals, it is not always the safest choice for your crystals. Below we have prepared a short article that will familiarize you with the risks that cleaning with water brings and how to avoid them.

Risks of cleaning with water

Water may seem like a gentle and natural way to cleanse crystals, but many crystals should not come into contact with water.

Many crystals are porous/soft, contain metals, or are sensitive to water chemistry, which can lead to surface damage, cracking, or even complete dissolution.

The dangers of cleaning with water are as follows :

• Chemical reactions : Water can react with the minerals in the crystals, causing oxidation, rusting, or other chemical changes that can weaken or destroy the crystal.
• Physical damage : Sudden temperature changes (thermal shock) can create micro-cracks or cause the crystal to disintegrate.
• Water Solubility : Some crystals dissolve in water, which can happen very slowly over time or almost immediately, depending on the mineral.

Given these risks, it's essential to know which crystals are particularly vulnerable to water damage so you don't make an irreversible mistake.

10 Crystals You Shouldn't Clean With Water

1. Selenite : Selenite is very soluble in water and can begin to dissolve when it comes into contact with moisture.
2. Malachite : This stone is not only soft, but also contains copper, which can react with water, causing the stone to begin to decay or turn slightly brown.
3. Lapis Lazuli : A porous crystal that can be damaged by exposure to water, leading to loss of color and erosion or rusting of its pyrite inclusions.
4. Azurite : Like lapis lazuli, azurite is very sensitive to water and can lose its vibrant blue color.
5. Halite : Like real rock salt, halite will dissolve completely in water, which means that it should absolutely not be cleaned with water.
6. Calcite : This crystal can increase acidity when exposed to water, which can lead to etching or slow degradation.
7. Desert Rose : This type of mineral is soluble in water and can lose its luster if washed under water.
8. Pyrite : Pyrite is known for its metallic luster, but due to its metal content, it can rust over time when in contact with water.
9. Opal : Opals contain water within their silicon structure; the constant change between the dry and wet environment it would be exposed to can cause cracking.
10. Kyanite : This brittle crystal can disintegrate and break when exposed to water.

Acceptance of smoke cleansing

We alwaysrecommend smoke cleaning instead of water cleaning for the following reasons:

• Universal Suitability : Smoke cleansing can be safely used with virtually any type of crystal without risk of physical or chemical damage.
• Benefits of aromatherapy : Burning natural incenses such as sage, palo santo or sweet grass not only removes negative energy, but also improves your environment and home through the subtle use of aromatherapy.
• Effectiveness : The smoke reaches every part of the crystal, thus ensuring a thorough cleaning and maintaining the structural integrity of the crystal.

How to use smoke to cleanse your crystals

To smoke cleanse your crystals, simply light some natural incense and wrap your crystals in the smoke.

This will help clear any negative or stagnant energy that may be lingering in your crystals.

The most important thing in cleaning is your intention. As you cleanse the stone, maintain a focused intention on cleansing and re-energizing your crystals and minerals.

Water - never again

While water cleansing may be popular (we've received calls ourselves from customers who do it regularly), it's not suitable for all crystals.

Smoke cleansing offers a safe, effective and aromatic alternative that can not only enhance the energies of the crystals, but your environment as well. The next time you think about cleaning your crystals, choose smoke over water and preserve the natural beauty and integrity of your precious crystals.