Crystals Shapes: Raw VS Tumbled

What are the differences between Raw Crystals and Tumbled Crystals? Is one better than the other? Do they have different energies?

The shortest answer is, no, not really, but let's dive in a little deeper.

Raw stones are just that, raw, untouched, untreated, and found just the way you'd find them if you were to pull them out from the Earth yourself. They can vary from small almost gravel-like size to large natural formations. Since they are raw they're slightly more fragile (especially softer stones) in this state. Some folks believe that raw stones have more of a pure energy, since they have been untouched and unchanged. They are my preferred state for crystals personally, especially when it comes to smaller ones. The rough texture and shape just gives me happy feels when I'm holding one. Seeing all the ridges, markings, colour variations, and simply the way they feel is so amazing to me. Seriously, this planet that we stand on is super rad.

A stone with a hardness of 5 or higher (too soft and they'll just crumble) have likely been put through a rotary or vibratory tumbler. The tumbling process can take up to 28 days, it's definitely not quick. The four steps taken to achieve those perfectly formed and polished crystals start with a coarse grind silicon carbide that takes about 7 days. The second step - a medium grind is used and takes another 7 days. The third step is a pre-polishing that uses a fine grind and runs for another 7 days. The fourth and final step is polishing with an aluminum oxide powder for another 7 days. After 4 weeks you'll get perfectly polished crystals. This process is ideal for crystals that have some sort of sheen or flash like Rainbow Moonstone, Labradorite, or Tigers Eye as the polishing makes that flash or sheen that much brighter and easier to see.

Each type of crystal holds the same energy whether it's a large enchanting sphere, a druzy or a small tumbled piece of Black Obsidian. You will get all of the same magical and healing benefits with any size piece. Smaller raw and tumbled stones are really affordable and easily accessible for anyone at any stage on their spiritual journey.

These smaller pieces are excellent for using with a crystal grid. Since the stones are lightweight they can easily be tucked into pockets or bras for when you want to keep those healing energies closer to your body. You can add some to a small crystal or mojo bag and carry it with you all the time, I have a bag myself that never leaves my purse unless I need to cleanse them. That bag is filled with stones I've bought myself, ones that have come into my life through other people, and some pieces that came from my lovely House of Intuition spell candles. I use them as daily reminders of the things I'm working on manifesting for myself. Using a crystal bag for these types of stones are perfect for making energy sets, things that you can carry for yourself, or gift to friends, loved ones, and coworkers who may benefit from a little crystal magic in their lives.

I wish I had a sink made of Rose Quartz, but that small raw chunk sitting on my bedside table can hold just as much power if I let it. The true power found in crystals comes from you, and how you use them.

Love and good vibes, always. ❤️