How to Find the Best Beginner Crystals

From a young age, I found myself interested in collecting rocks. We lived in Maine and Mica was everywhere – its shiny reflective appearance made me think I’d found something valuable. It wasn’t, but it didn’t matter. it was the joy of collecting and finding unusual pieces – no two were ever the same. Mica is certainly not considered a “beginner crystal”, but that’s where the hobby started for me.

there’s no right or wrong way to begin collecting rocks. You can start in your back yard. Or you can go to the local rock store or online and just start looking. Many resources will tell you there are certain beginner crystals you should start with, but personally, I feel you should start with what you like. Especially if you’re into energetics. Is that beautiful purple charoite calling your name? Beginner crystal can be anything. The only limiting factor will be your budget 😉

That being said, certain stones are universally considered beginner crystals.

And that is because they are easy to find, beautiful, and economical. If you are in a rock shop, you will easily find them:

Quartz: Clear, smoky, white, rose quartz, Amethyst
Agates
Red jasper
Selenite
pyrite
Obsidian

There are others, but these are some of the most common. You may find it interesting to note that most of these are silica based (with the exception of selenite and pyrite). This is because silica is one of the most abundant minerals in the earth’s crust. Quartz is everywhere, in every continent. It is plentiful, and therefore affordable.

If you are looking to study energetics and crystal healing, you will also find these are the top recommended beginner crystals. It is for the same reasons – they are economical, easy to find, and contain some of the strongest energy: after all, studies on piezoelectricity (electrical charges in crystals) are quartz-based. It is a beautiful, versatile, and powerful material: it is no coincidence that most beginner crystals are from the silicate family.

A Word for the Rockhounds

As a beginner crystal collector, there is nothing more exhilarating than finding a crystal on your own! It’s a literal treasure hunt. If this is where you would like to start, I would suggest doing some research first. A local rock club or Facebook group is perfect: you will have access to seasoned rockhounds who can share good locations, as well as tips for your area.

If this is not an option, do a bit of research on the local geology. For example, mountainous areas can be filled with crystal pockets, rivers often carry interesting sediment, and never underestimate the power of your local gravel pit (if accessible to the public). You may also find closed mines or privately owned claims that allow public digs. A little research will help point you in the right direction. Wherever you start, it is good to have reasonable expectations. Rockhounding is not always easy, and you may not always find something. But don’t give up.

A word about Energetics

Many collect crystals for their healing properties, both physically and spiritually. If this is you, my advice is the same. I personally believe that if you are sensitive to the healing powers of crystals, you will also be sensitive to your intuition, and what you resonate with. If you’ve ever heard the call of a crystal, you will know what this means. And if it’s not quartz or agate, there is nothing wrong with that. Choose the crystal that calls to you.

If you are studying energetics, you will be guided to use certain stones to be acquainted with their unique energies. Some are universally used for certain things (such as selenite for cleansing, tourmaline for protection, and quartz as an amplifier).

However, besides the Piezoelectric effect, which observes electrical charges within crystal, there is very little scientific proof of exact crystal energies. In my experience, energy is subjective to the individual. Learn to use your own intuition above all else. If you feel guided to work with crystals, choose to study with practitioners, shops and resources that resonate with you. Not all are created equally.

Online Collectors

This can be a difficult place to begin collecting. The options are overwhelming, and sadly, there are lots of fakes. And anyone can be a crystal seller – just because a shop sells rocks does not make them an expert. Since Covid, the internet has exploded with crystal shops, mostly run by enthusiasts who also started collecting online.

In a nutshell, shop from reputable sources. I would avoid places like Temu, AliExpress, etc. Read reviews, read the shops about section, do not just assume everyone on Etsy is a pro. Read the descriptions and ask questions! My favorite shops are those who know where the crystals come from, a bit about how they formed, are willing to answer questions, or find out if they don’t know. Don’t be afraid to reach out. A good seller will be willing to communicate. And don’t assume an expensive piece is genuine or worth the high price tag. I will delve into that topic in other posts.