Minerals and rocks have existed since the formation of the Earth and far long before ancient human civilization came to exist. The earliest record of crystals was discovered by the Ancient Sumerians and used in their practices during the 4th milenium BC. Crytals are distinct in appearance as they have aesthetic qualities and can refract light in various ways. For this reason, poets and writers during the medieval ages were inspired by the qualities of crystals as they represented purity and were the epitomity of perfection. Ancient Chinese medicine also included crystals in healing practices dating back to five thousand years ago. People in ancient Egypt had also used crystals to make fine jewelry and some gems such as malachite and galena were ground to create cosmetic products. In Mesoamerican cultures, weapons, tools, armor, mirrors, and ornamaments were often crafted out of obsidian as it was believed to offer a form of protection. Despite superstition regarding gemstones, the Christian and Hebrew bible offers some insight into where zodiac gemstones originated. According to the book of Exodus 28, Moses had constructed an armored breastplate for a high priest by the name of Aaron, which included "twelve precious gemstones" that would represent the "twelve tribes of Israel". Crystals have also been included in various other religions and practices such as Buddhism, yoga and meditation in which people believe inner peace and happiness can be granted through dedication and patience. Many people may be skeptical, but to some degree, crystals and gemstones have played a great role in shaping societies, civilizations, and stories that are revisited even in the present day.
Many individuals undergo episodes or some from of anxiety or stress every now and then. The global pandemic that occurred in early 2020 has been no exception and has only heightned mental stressors. For this reason, many people have resorted to purchasing items that would offer relief. Thus the crystal industry, particulary online, thrived as many people sought refuge from everyday life and uncertainty. Some of the most common beliefs about particular crystals are that purple crystals, particularly amethyst can promote spirituality, pink crystals such as rose quartz, can promote love and beauty, blue crystals such as aquamarine can offer clarity and calmness, and white crystals, such as quart and opal promote feelings of purity and hope. These feelings and emotions can appeal to many individuals and that is why many people collect them in hopes of achieving greater happiness, even if it may or may not be a placebo effect.
Crystals and gemstones are utlimately rocks that were formed by the earth billions of years ago. Some crystals are formed through natural phenoma while gemstones some are modified by jewelers or purveyors. Some technological devices such as computers and radios would not exist or be as advanced without the inclusion of crystals. For the most part, computer chips, radios, microphones, ultrasound, household appliances, etc; is fueled by quartz crystals. Sillicon crystals also has similar befits when it comes to making sure that our tablets, computers, and cell phones function properly. Even something as simple as using a standard pencil requires grinding up graphite crystals to create traditional writing utensils. Sometimes, even taking the time to bake and prepare your favorite dessert or pastry requires a process called "crystallization" in which a liquid or gaseous element will then solidify. Gemstones are not exempt from the fashion industry either, as creators are often seeking alternative and biomaterial approaches to creating products that consumers will wear. The truth of the matter is even if a person chooses to indulge in beautifully formed rocks and believe in their rumored properties, crystals will make an appearance make an appearance in many aspects of human culture and have helped shape many lives for the better.