Crystals are one of the most beautiful gifts that we have been given by Mother Earth and metals in their various forms can also delight the senses. However, just like Mother Earth herself, some crystals can be just as dangerous as they are beautiful. Many of these stones are perfectly safe to handle or wear as jewelry, but present a danger when they are used to create anything that will be consumed (internally).
No matter what you are intending to do with your crystals, you should always be aware of base minerals they contain as a very good chunk of them can contain poisonous elements, such as copper, lead, zinc and arsenic. This can be a problem if you plan on using your crystals for Gem Elixirs.
Some minerals are more toxic than others and there are many different types of toxicity. You must use your own judgement when choosing what crystals to work with and how to use them.
This is NOT a comprehensive list of all toxic minerals.
Please be safe, and do extensive research on your crystals before using them, especially if you are making a Gem Elixir and the crystal infused elixir (water) will be ingested.
Aluminum - Aluminum toxicity can impair growth, cause bone deformities and weakness, confusion, speech problems and seizures. Especially dangerous for people with impaired kidney function.
Amazonite - The color is from copper or lead, but it is considered stable.
Aragonite - a type of calcium carbonite (aka chalk). Reactive to certain other minerals, releases toxic chemicals if burned. Irritating to eyes and mucus membranes.
Arsenic - A particularly potent poison popular with assassins during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Aspestos - causes respiratory irritation. A well-documented cancer-causing agent.
Barium - Affects the nervous system… explosive.
Boji-stones- These are trademarked. Who knows what's in them. Rumored to contain sulfur.
Cavansite - calcium vanadium silicate, All vanadium compounds should be considered toxic.
Flourite - corrosive, may irritate skin or eyes.
Iron - While iron is necessary to body function, excess iron intake through ingestion or inhalation can lead to intestinal distress and liver failure.
Lapis Lazuli - contains sulfur.
Meteorite - These come from space. There's no end to the possibilities.
Realgar - also known as ruby of arsenic. Also contains sulfur. Was once used to poison rats and for fireworks.
Zinc - Although some zinc is necessary to body function, excess zinc can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients.
As always when using crystals, make sure you know how to use them and for what intent or purpose. Crystals are wonderful healing tools if used correctly.