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© 2003-2008 Copyright
MoonCave Crystals
*All Rights Reserved*

This page contains geological data that cautions one when using certain types of crystals/minerals. While most in the metaphysical/spiritual community only speak of the higher purpose properties, common sense must be taken into consideration when using these on a physical level. This page is a cautionary measure on stones that may be harmful in certain situations or specific types of minerals (raw versus tumbled, Fibrous versus crystallized or mass) , whether it be in Elixirs or prolonged holding, bathing, touching to skin, etc.

It is not meant to perpetuate fear or anxiety, but instead to educate and share our deep respect for the crystal and mineral kingdom. Most of these are geared toward internal use with a few being cautionary for external use. A good rule of thumb is to make sure you wash your hands after using any crystal/mineral. It keeps our mineral friends clean and is a great way to show respect to ourselves and our crystal/mineral family.

Most of this information is really geared toward raw specimens. I do not think tumbled, for the most part, would be harmful, with a few exceptions, such as Realgar.

NOTE: Before making any elixir or charging any water, it is a good idea to double check for any possible toxicity that may occur, if using several stones in combination, for elemental reactions between the stones. In fact, it would be best if each stone charges in its own container of water as opposed to putting four or five stones in the same container.

 

Mineral/Stone
Use with Caution
Actinolite Fibrous form is asbestos. Not recommended for elixirs.
Azurite Copper, Toxic
Bronchantite Copper Hydrated Sulphate, Toxic
Boji Stones Contains Pyrite and Marcasite (*also could be a fire hazard--Email for details)
Chalcopyrite AKA Peacock Ore contains copper and sulfur which can be toxic
Cinnabar Contains mercury which can be poisonous/toxic Wash hands after holding. Do not touch hands to eyes or mouth while holding.
Conichalcite Contains poisonous/toxic copper
Crocoite Contains poisonous/toxic levels of Chromium. Do not touch hands to eyes or mouth while holding. Do not ingest.
Chysocolla Contains poisonous/toxic copper. Safe for handling but not for use in elixirs.
Cuprite Contains poisonous/toxic copper. Wash hands after holding. Do not touch hands to eyes or mouth while holding.
Dioptase Contains poisonous/toxic copper. Safe for handling but not for use in elixirs.
Galena Contains high amounts of lead which can be poisonous
Halite Unfit for elixir use--will dissolve in water
Hematite Unfit for elixir use--will rust with prolonged exposure in liquid
Kyanite Contains Aluminum--not recommended to use in its raw form
Malachite Contains poisonous/toxic copper
Orpiment HIGHLY TOXIC levels of Arsenic. Wash hands after use, keep away from CHILDREN!! Do not put hands near eyes or mouth before washing hands.
Marcasite See *Boji Stones*
Psilomelane Contains poisonous/toxic Barium
Pyrite Pyrite may contain intermixed Marcasite. The Marcasite with time and exposure to oxygen, may form a white powdery substance/residue which is poisonous/toxic Sulfuric Acid.) If this occurs you should not wear next to the skin or touch. Not recommended for Elixirs.
Quantum stone Contains poisonous/toxic copper
Realgar ** HIGHLY TOXIC levels of Arsenic. Wash hands after use, keep away from CHILDREN!! Do not put hands near eyes or mouth before washing hands.
Serpentine Fibrous forms are asbestos. Wash hands after use. Not recommended in elixir preparation.
Stibnite Contains lead and antimony. Not recommended for elixirs.
Smithsonite Contains zinc and may contain copper (green Smithsonite) Safe for handling but may be Poisonous/toxic when used in elixirs.
Tiger Eye Fibrous form contains asbestos. Not recommended to use raw forms for elixirs.
Torbenite Radioactive
Tremolite Fibrous forms are asbestos. Not recommended for Elixirs. Wash hands after use.
Vanadinite Contains poisonous Vanadium
Wulfenite Contains poisonous Lead and Molybdenum. Safe for handling but not for use in elixirs.
Zircon Contain Zirconium, Radioactive

*Original List provided with permission by Liz Gunther and Peggy Jentoff . Additions and corrections have been made with the assistance of Steve Garza.

Liz and Peggy had the right idea when they decided to share their original list with anyone who wanted it. Even as I expand on the list, I too, hold that belief that this is something that NEEDS to be shared for anyone who works with crystals. I do not expect nor demand that you use a link to my website if you decide to share this. I certainly will not demand that it is my property alone and you have to ask permission. While both would be a nice and honorable gesture, I think that having the information and sharing it for the sole purpose of educating ourselves and each other is a far better goal. Stepping down from my soapbox now........ :)