While crystals are beautiful and can enhance our lives in many ways, it’s important to remember that not all are safe to wear. Some can be extremely dangerous to our health.
In the realm of crystal healing, most practices are safe and even recommended by spiritualists and New Age workers to release stress, negativity, and build a life of abundance.
However, it is critical to understand the risks associated with certain crystals, as their energetic properties can sometimes pose incredible dangers.
Today, we dive into the specifics of which crystals are considered the most dangerous to wear and why they should be avoided.
Also Read: 8 Purple And Green Crystals For Positive Transformation
What Crystals Are Toxic?
In the realm of crystals and minerals, it’s crucial to note that many carry toxic properties, making them dangerous to wear, ingest, breathe, or even swallow under certain circumstances.
Immersing these crystals in water can reduce its potability, rendering it unsafe to drink.
Whether for cleansing purposes or natural curiosity, understanding which crystals pose a risk is essential.
Our discussion today is gathered to shed light on such crystals, emphasizing the importance of caution in their use.
13 Most Dangerous Crystals To Wear
Exploring the realm of crystals, particularly in jewelry and crystal healing, demands caution.
Despite their beauty and alleged therapeutic properties, some crystals carry dangerous risks.
Research is crucial before purchasing, as the potential for poisoning, skin allergies, mild symptoms, or even fatal illness cannot be overlooked.
Substances with toxicity, like those containing asbestos, can be especially deadly if ingested or worn close to the skin.
Even rare occasions of exposure can lead to severe health issues over years.
Also Read: 12 Side Effects Of Black Onyx That Raise Concerns
1. Blue Asbestos
Blue asbestos stands out as notably perilous among minerals.
Known for its deadly impact, this mineral can infiltrate the bloodstream and lungs, inflicting damage that may not surface until decades later.
It’s a grim reminder that what’s worn as a necklace today could culminate in a fatal, incurable disease.
Experts consistently warn against the use of any crystal or stone that could lead to lung scarring, breathing problems, chest pain, and weight loss, ultimately diagnosing sufferers with mesothelioma.
2. Cinnabar
Cinnabar, a stone rich in mercury, poses dangerous toxicity risks. Chronic exposure can lead to neurological issues and fatal major organ system damage.
Despite its allure in crystal healing, the hazards of inhalation, skin contact, and ingestion make it a risk.
Even as dyes or color enhancements in stones sold for collections, its potential for harm cannot be ignored.
3. Fluorspar
Fluorspar, a beautiful stone with a golden yellow hue similar to topaz, is tempting for any pretty collection.
However, its chemical composition, fluoride, can cause severe health problems like neurological, kidney failure, and liver damage.
These symptoms point to disease risks like fluorosis, a stark reminder of the mineral’s dangers.
4. Phenacite
Phenacite, a uniquely shaped and colored stone, resembles rock glass and is stunning in appearance.
However, its element, beryllium, can lead to deadly diseases if inhaled.
Components of the rock, when not manufactured properly, pose risks of cancer, lung damage, and harm to the lymphatic system, marking it as deadly.
5. Fluorite
Fluorite, a pretty stone with a pale green hue, holds a seemingly magical appeal. However, it’s linked to multiple system organ damages.
Experts recommend using a mask or respirator when handling, to avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose afterward.
Its beauty belies the hidden risks when worn as crystal jewelry.
Also Read: 11 Stones That Look Like Turquoise
6. Chrysotile
Chrysotile, a type of asbestos, carries a high toxicity potential due to its chemical makeup.
This chemical can cause problems leading to life-ending conditions in the lungs over decades.
Despite its use in everyday life, its presence in any form, including jewelry, should be carefully considered.
7. Zircon
Zircon is known for its dangerous mineral properties, including radioactive components.
The radioactivity poses not only spiritual but also physical healing challenges, contradicting its perceived benefits.
This makes it a dangerous choice for those seeking both spiritual and physical adornment.
8. Malachite
Malachite is breathtakingly beautiful, with its rich green colouring and mesmerising bands and swirls, making it a coveted statement piece in any collection.
Despite its allure, this soft material can be carved into intricate designs and sculptures, often carrying a hefty price tag for fine-quality, large specimens.
Its metaphysical properties are sought after for transformation and healing energies, making it popular among crystal workers for creating crystal essences and elixirs.
However, Malachite, being copper carbonate, poses risks as dust from grinding, raw, unpolished specimens can damage the endocrine and central nervous system if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
When handled or wearing, only polished items or those not intended as a drinking vessel or body product are considered safe.
Its high copper content makes it problematic, similar to other intense green or blue minerals like Azurite and Chrysocolla, which should be avoided for internal use due to their composition.
9. Pyrite
Pyrite, a shiny, golden cube-shaped stone, is impossible to go past without admiring its clusters that mimic suns in form and energy.
It encourages one to reach out, touch, and feel its strong, protective nature that unlocks creativity, attracts success, and prosperity, making it an excellent choice for an elixir or intention candle.
However, this iron sulphide mineral, a combination of iron and sulphur, poses risks. Ingesting it from a drink bottle or drinking directly can release small amounts of arsenic as it oxidises.
Furthermore, when candles embedded with Pyrite are used to adorn the home and burn at the candle’s top, the heat can cause it to emit sulphur dioxide gas, a toxic byproduct.
It’s crucial to remove these crystals from candles to protect against heat damage and chemical reactions.
The introduction of heat can start a chemical reaction that is hazardous to health, especially for children and pets.
Despite its appeal in high school chemistry as a specimen for a collection, or as jewellery, it must be kept safe from heat sources and the mouth.
Pyrite and its varieties, along with composite minerals like Lapis Lazuli, characterized by veins of gold flecks, termed Lapis, should be handled with care to avoid internal use.
Also Read: The Real Side Effects Of Wearing Copper Bracelet
10. Galena
Galena boasts a shiny silver metallic luster that might remind one of a futuristic sci-fi movie.
This magnificent mineral, with its lead-sulphide composition, is toxic to the body.
Handling it safely requires awareness of its dust particles and softness on the Mohs scale.
To avoid exposure, wearing gloves and a face mask is recommended, especially during storage to protect children, pets, and people in your household collection.
11. Crocoite
Crocoite, credited to the Aussies for its prettiest and most dangerous specimens from Tasmania, is a unique, vibrant, and engaging sight.
Despite its fragile hardness and full lead content, it presents a toxic health risk due to heavy metals poisoning and severe damage to the organ system.
Its hexavalent chromium content and softness make handling difficult; its long, thin crystals can break gently and crumble, releasing dust and small particles that if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed pose a risk.
Its spines resemble a punk-rocker hedgehog but breaks easily, necessitating cautious handling.
12. Orpiment
Orpiment, resembling rock candy with its yellow beauty, might lure one in with its lemon citrus candy appearance. However, it’s notorious for acute arsenic poisoning.
This stunning yellow specimen, an arsenic-sulphide mineral, has a rich historical background; Alchemists and the Chinese once sought it for its resemblance to gold and medicinally, respectively.
Despite its allure to mineral enthusiasts, it’s crucial to safely handle to avoid the horrible effects of arsenic poisoning.
13. Torbernite
Torbernite, with a vibe straight out of a marvel comic book plot, contains Copper, phosphate, and uranium, releasing radon, a toxic, carcinogenic, and radioactive gas.
Its exposure could be a super-hero or super-villain origin story, but in reality, it’s incredibly dangerous.
Touching or owning Torbernite, much like Crocoite and Galena specimens, should be for educational purposes only and safely locked away.
It’s a piece that demands a “handle safely spiel” if it ever leaves its room. Radon is not to be trifled with, making even a cheap tourmaline look incredible by comparison.
This green mineral has the incredible capacity to kill if mishandled.
15 Asbestos Crystals And Their Risks
When exploring the realm of crystals, it’s crucial to address the asbestos-containing ones, given their toxic nature.
Handling these crystals, especially during cutting, polishing, or tumbling processes, demands strict safety gear due to the hazardous dust they can release.
Even setting them in crystal grids or on altars necessitates caution. My personal journey into crystal collection taught me the significance of understanding each crystal’s background and safety measures.
I learned the hard way that even the most beautiful stones could pose dangers if not handled with respect and knowledge.
1. Actinolite
Actinolite is a lesser-known crystal that carries a no-no tag for use in elixirs or soaking in water or salt water.
The hazard risk associated with Actinolite is relatively low compared to other asbestos-containing minerals, yet it underscores the importance of awareness and caution in crystal rituals.
2. Brucite
With its pearly luster, Brucite might tempt one to overlook its toxic potential. It’s uniquely soluble in acids, a rare trait that requires handling with care.
Despite its abundance in certain regions, using Brucite safely involves appreciating its beauty from afar, in its natural rosettes and masses of yellow and greenish-yellow hues.
Personal experience has taught me the value of admiring such crystals without direct contact, reinforcing the practice of safe crystal engagement.
3. Mesolite
Mesolite, a member of the zeolite family, possesses a deceptive fibrous structure, akin to asbestos, making it carcinogenic.
Its toxicity levels caution against any use in elixirs, serving as a stark reminder of the invisible dangers lurking within such crystals.
4. Pietersite
Pietersite is a fusion of Tiger’s Eye and Blue Crocidolite, known for its beauty but fraught with risks due to asbestos.
The very act of cutting, polishing, and shaping this crystal releases dangerous dust, making inhale hazards a real concern, especially when preparing elixirs or during divination practices.
5. Binghamite
In the heart of Minnesota, lies Binghamite, also known as Cuyyunite or Silkstone, a popular form of Agate intertwined with asbestos.
Its usage in elixirs or wet rituals meant to boost courage and willpower must be approached sparingly, underscoring the importance of cautious engagement with such crystals.
6. Cat’s Eye
Cat’s Eye mesmerizes with its optical property of Chatoyancy, creating a captivating illusion.
Yet, its similarity to Green Quartz and potential for asbestos contamination means ingesting or inhaling its particles can be perilous, demanding a cautious appreciation of its beauty.
Also Read: Who Should Not Wear Turquoise Stone
7. Denisovite
Denisovite, with its green fibers, is both beautiful and highly toxic. Its suitability for elixirs or direct infusions is nil, emphasizing the critical need to wash hands thoroughly after handling, to avoid inadvertent exposure to its harmful effects.
8. Tremolite
Tremolite is often hailed as a love crystal, promoting an aura of peace and affection. However, its beauty is overshadowed by the low risk of toxicity associated with its composition.
While generally safe, I always remind enthusiasts to wash their hands after handling and avoid direct infusions to keep their love for crystals untainted by health concerns.
9. Serpentine
Serpentine, with its fibrous texture, is a complex group of minerals often associated with asbestos.
While handling, I’ve learned that these fibers can lead to respiratory disorders if inhaled.
Its use in direct elixirs is highly discouraged, despite Chrysotile, a form of serpentine, being present in varying concentrations from 1% to 25%.
This crystal serves as a reminder of nature’s intricate balance between beauty and risk.
10. Scolecite
Belonging to the zeolite family, Scolecite is a testament to the harmony of high vibration and spiritual enhancement, notably amplifying psychic abilities.
Despite its fibrous structure, akin to asbestos, its toxicity is considered negligible.
This has allowed me to use Scolecite for cleansing without the worry, although I steer clear of direct infusions into gem water to maintain safety.
11. Tiger’s Eye
Tiger’s Eye has always intrigued me with its mesmerizing hues and the history of its formation from Crocidolite and Quartz.
Though asbestos once played a role in its genesis, the transformation renders it safe. However, one should never inhale the powders of this stone to prevent potential harm.
The variant known as Blue Tiger’s Eye or Hawk’s Eye reinforces the beauty of transformation while underscoring the importance of using indirect elixir methods for safety.
12. Tokkoite
Tokkoite, a lesser-known crystal rich in toxic Fluorine and asbestos, hails from Russia, closely associated with Charoite.
It’s famed among collectors for enhancing psychic vision, yet its beauty comes with a caveat due to its composition.
My personal guideline is to admire Tokkoite from a distance, avoiding direct crystal elixirs to sidestep its hazardous embrace.
Also Read: 14 Potential Side Effects Of Magnetic Bracelets
13. Yuksporite
Yuksporite, known for its vibrant yellow, red, and pink hues, targets both higher and lower chakras.
Despite its unique allure, the presence of asbestos warns against direct infusions. This crystal teaches the delicate balance of beauty and risk.
14. Zebra Jasper
Zebra Jasper, infused with Chrysotile asbestos, promotes harmony and peace.
Thankfully, its toxicity risk is deemed negligible, making it safer for touching and wearing than others.
Its stripes remind us that balance is possible, even in the face of potential dangers.
15. Ulexite
Ulexite, also dubbed T.V. Rock, enhances intuition and clairvision, ideal for fortune telling.
However, its soft mineral nature means it loses luster easily, especially when soaked in water.
Containing toxic Boron and asbestos, crystal infusions with Ulexite should be approached with caution, highlighting the intricate relationship between the metaphysical properties and physical safety of crystals.
FAQs About Most Dangerous Crystals To Wear
1. Is Malachite Toxic?
Malachite is indeed toxic when in powder form due to its Copper content. It is celebrated for protecting the Heart Chakra and is especially revered by expectant mothers. However, caution is advised: after handling or if broken, one must thoroughly wash their hands. Avoid making crystal elixirs or infusions by soaking malachite directly in water.
2. Is Black Tourmaline Toxic?
Black Tourmaline, known for its grounding effects on the Root Chakra, easing stress, tension, and anxiety, contains Aluminum but is not toxic in solid form. To cleanse, simply rinse with water; avoid soaking in salt water. Exercise care when handling broken pieces.
3. How To Use Black Tourmaline Safely?
To use Black Tourmaline safely, keep it in solid form. Cleanse with water without soaking in salt water for extended periods. This practice ensures minimal risk when touching or handling broken pieces, maintaining its beneficial properties.
4. Is Tiger’s Eye Toxic?
Tiger’s Eye, potentially toxic in powdered form due to crocidolite asbestos, is safe once cut, tumbled, and polished under strict safety regulations. Handling the raw, bare crystal with hands should be done cautiously to avoid exposure to asbestos. Direct crystal elixirs are not recommended.
5. Is Dalmatian Jasper Toxic?
While Dalmatian Jasper is not inherently toxic, it’s prudent to handle it with care as it belongs to the silicate and chalcedony group. Known for its black spots reminiscent of a Dalmatian, it helps combat feelings of loss and loneliness. Cleanse with water; a rinse rather than a soak for up to 3 hours is advisable to avoid damage. Avoid using it for crystal elixirs.
6. Is Chrysocolla Toxic?
Chrysocolla may appear benign, but it’s crucial to note its potential toxicity when dust particles are inhaled or come into contact with the skin. This stone, rich in Copper, can be safely worn when tumbled and polished, aligning beautifully with the Heart and Throat Chakras, helping one express themselves more freely and confidently.
However, care should be taken to avoid inhaling or ingesting particles, and safety gear is a must when cutting, polishing, or handling its broken pieces. Avoid making gem water directly with it, for safety’s sake.
7. Is Lepidolite Toxic?
Lepidolite, known for its high-vibration energy aligning with the Crown Chakra, aids in meditation and opening the mind’s eye to wisdom and spiritual guidance. Yet, this toxic mineral contains Aluminum, and caution is advised against attempting to ingest or inhale its dust.
Despite its benefits, it’s wise to avoid creating direct crystal elixirs with it. After handling, especially if it’s been soaked in water or salt water, always wash your hands thoroughly.
8. Is Lapis Lazuli Toxic?
Lapis Lazuli is a treasure of wisdom and intelligence, resonating with the Crown and Third Eye Chakras. However, its toxic aspect comes into play if it makes contact with water. Sulfur components within make it unsafe to wear during activities that might expose it to water.
To maintain its polished state and ensure safety, tumbled Lapis Lazuli should be used with care. Proper cleansing and charging techniques exclude water and salt water to prevent creating toxic gem water.
9. Is Bronzite Toxic?
While Bronzite is generally considered safe for touching and wearing, caution is advised when it comes to its dust. As a silicate mineral, it’s crucial to avoid inhaling the fine particles that can be released if the stone is broken or roughly handled.
This is particularly relevant when the crystal is soaked in water for long periods, as moisture can facilitate the release of these particles. Despite its relative robustness, with a MOHS hardness rating making it resistant to scratches, direct infusions into crystal elixirs are not recommended due to the potential risks associated with ingesting mineral particles.
10. How To Use Bronzite Safely?
To use Bronzite safely, it’s essential to keep it dry and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture. With a MOHS hardness of 6, it’s less likely to scratch, but care should still be taken not to grind it into powder form, which could be hazardous if inhaled. As such, Bronzite should not be used for direct infusions in crystal elixirs, ensuring its benefits can be enjoyed without risk.
11. Is Lithium Quartz Toxic?
Lithium Quartz, known for its connections to psychology and spirituality, offers peace and harmony to its wearers. However, it is considered toxic if consumed in anything beyond a reasonable dosage.
While safe for touching and wearing, and potentially beneficial for those dealing with mental illness or manic depression, it’s important to use it cautiously. Creating crystal elixirs with direct contact to water or salt should be avoided to prevent ingestion of any harmful elements.
12. Is Kyanite Toxic?
My intrigue with Kyanite began with its stunning blue hues, compelling me to incorporate it into my jewelry collection. However, I learned that handling Kyanite, especially when cut, polished, or tumbled, requires care. The process of making Kyanite jewelry releases crystal silica dust, a substance potentially harmful if inhaled.
It can lead to lung fibrosis, a condition I wish upon no one. From personal experience, I recommend using a mask when dealing with broken pieces and always cleaning them by soaking in water rather than creating dust that can be easily inhaled or ingested. Never handle them with bare hands without proper washing afterwards.
13. Is Fuchsite Toxic?
Fuchsite caught my eye with its mesmerizing green sparkle, tempting me to keep it close for its heart-opening qualities. Yet, this crystal harbors a hidden caution. Fuchsite may contain traces of Chromium and Arsenic, two harmful chemicals when consumed or inhaled.
My approach? Embrace its beauty in polished, cut, or tumbled forms and avoid direct contact with water in infusions. Opt for indirect infusions by placing the stone near the water, not in it, to cherish its energy safely. Soaking raw stones directly in water for crystal elixirs is a risk I avoid at all costs.
14. Is Carnelian Toxic?
The warmth of Carnelian has always been close to my heart, symbolizing motivation and endurance. Yet, the question of its toxicity arises when considering its use in prolonged water soaking.
My research and personal handling have shown that Carnelian is generally safe. However, it’s wise to rinse and clean it under running water rather than soak it for longer periods. This practice ensures that any surface impurities are removed, making it safer for wear.
15. Is Calcite Toxic?
Diving into the world of crystals, one often stumbles upon Calcite, a stone that raises doubts due to its toxic nature when mingled with water. This dangerous aspect stems from impurities such as Sulfur, Zinc, and Copper found within its ores. It’s a stark reminder that cleansing and charging rituals, especially involving gem water, demand cautious handling to avoid adverse reactions.
16. Is Amethyst Toxic?
Amethyst, a silicate mineral, is generally safe and enriches our lives by connecting with the Crown and Third Eye Chakras, fostering positive affirmations and goals. Despite its beauty, when polished or cut, it requires careful maintenance. Exposure to water can lead to cracks, rust, or shattering. Therefore, cleansing and charging should ideally involve filtered water, avoiding salt water to prevent damage.
17. Is Cinnabar Toxic?
The vibrant Cinnabar beckons with its promise of courage, passion, commitment, and confidence. However, it’s notoriously toxic, containing Mercury, which can release toxic fumes upon overheating. Although not safe to be inhaled or ingested, and care should be taken when it’s touched or worn, it can still be charged and kept in a pocket to harness its energy safely.
18. How To Use Cinnabar Safely?
Cinnabar should never be handled with bare hands if you’re planning to place it in a hot place or an airtight box. Avoiding direct heat is crucial, as is steering clear of grinding or sawing it, which could release toxic dust into the air. Always prioritize safety to prevent any risks of ingesting or inhaling harmful particles.
19. Is Eudialyte Toxic?
Eudialyte’s vibrant energy, tied to the higher Heart Chakra, facilitates a universal connection. However, it contains radioactive elements like Uranium and Strontium, making it toxic in large sizes or quantities over 5 carats (approximately 1 gram). To safely harness its life force energy, opt for small pieces, avoid overheat, and rinse with water. Use in crystal elixirs should be through indirect infusions only.
20. Is Hutchinsonite Toxic?
Hutchinsonite, known for its extreme toxicity, contains thallium, arsenic, and lead. Its dangerous nature can lead to hair loss, nerve problems, or even death upon contact. To avoid adverse effects, it should be sealed away from direct contact with skin, air, and water.
21. Is Stibnite Toxic?
While Stibnite offers profound spiritual benefits, such as aiding in astral travel and gazing, its natural form as an ore of Antimony and Lead makes it dangerous. Exposure could risk arsenic poisoning, thus it’s advised to handle it with gloves and maintain a distance when touching.
22. Is Torbernite Toxic?
Torbernite, a dangerous crystal known for its Uranyl Phosphate composition and hydrated green Copper appearance, offers illusions of riches, success, and wealth. Despite being a coveted Uranium ore, it releases radon, a serious risk factor for lung cancer. Keep it in a sealed chamber and only visualize its spiritual benefits from a safe distance to avoid its “mineral from hell” nickname becoming a personal reality.
23. Is Jade Dangerous?
Contrary to popular belief, Jade can be toxic due to arsenic, cadmium, and lead content, posing risks of poisonous effects over extended periods. Those with sensitive skin may experience allergic reactions or eczema, especially when nickel is present, raising concerns about neurological problems.
24. Is Quartz Toxic To Touch?
While Quartz itself is not toxic to touch, creating ground dust that can be inhaled requires precautions like respirators or masks. Always wash hands after handling to prevent quartz dust from causing silicosis, an ailment characterized by inflammation, lungs scarring, and potential immune system disorders.
25. Is Amazonite Toxic?
Amazonite, known for its crystal healing properties, becomes toxic when immersed in water, making it unsafe for creating elixirs. It can release chemicals that render water undrinkable and unusable. To safely charge and cleanse, avoid placing Amazonite where its surface can make direct contact with skin.
26. What Happens If I Use A Toxic Gemstone?
Utilizing a toxic gemstone can lead to negative and potentially deadly side effects. From skin reactions to serious health problems, the danger lurks. If concerned, keep such stones in a safe place within your home and wear non-toxic crystals to enjoy their beauty while you minimize the risk.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the allure of crystals and crystal healing should be navigated with awareness, especially when it comes to the most dangerous crystals to wear.
These stones, while offering joy and healing, can also harbor toxic compounds that may lead to allergic reactions, fatal illness, or disease if used sparingly against the body.
It’s crucial to balance their use, ensuring that the pursuit of spiritual benefits does not become counterproductive.
Always prioritize safety to minimize the risk and enjoy the positive aspects of these powerful natural wonders.
References
https://www.mdpi.com/2075-163X/12/8/988
https://www.gemsociety.org/article/gemstone-toxicity-table/