Crystal colors and meaning

The color of natural crystals and stones has a lot to do with the energy they hold. Color theory separates colors into warm (red, orange, yellow), cool (green, blue, purple), black and white, and rainbow, and it also describes the way crystal colors influence our energies. The color of a crystal can help shape its energetic properties and vibration.

Energy, vibration, and duality

All matter in the universe is made up of energy, and as such it gives off vibrations at various frequencies. Crystals are no exception, and their vibrations can help us raise our own, which supports our mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.

Crystals and natural gemstones have receptive and projective energies, and one is usually expressed more strongly than the other. For example, natural black obsidian is traditionally used to keep negative energy away by repelling it, while black tourmaline absorbs it so it doesn't get tangled up with ours. Natural crystals are predictable in what vibrations they receive or project, but dyed or treated crystals can be just as beneficial.

Projective: white, red, orange and yellow

White, red, orange and yellow crystals hold projective energy that is energizing and activating, and they promote passion, creativity and abundance. They're traditionally used for luck, success, courage and self-confidence.

Receptive: black, green, blue and purple

Black, green, blue and purple crystals hold receptive energy that is magnetic and soothing, and they promote love, calm and peace. They're traditionally used for meditation and de-stressing, and for wisdom, love, sleep, friendship, prosperity, fertility and growth.