How to Select and Identify Healing Crystals Part Five: Crystal Grids & Cubic Crystals
Internal Structure
Previous posts in this series looked at external traits and characteristics of crystals to help us select and identify them. This week we will change things up as we explore the internal structure. In order to be classified a crystal, the collection of atoms that make up the crystal, called the Unit Cell, must be repeated in exactly the same arrangement over and over again throughout the entire material. This symmetrical, three-dimensional arrangement of atoms is called the crystal's lattice. The shape of the lattice, while not visible to the naked eye, determines its physical properties and its outward appearance. Crystals are grouped based upon the shape their internal lattice forms into.
Energy
Many crystal healing practitioners chose crystals for their grids with the energy of the lattice in mind. Each of the seven crystal groups we will explore have cells that arrange themselves into different geometric shapes that influences how their energy flows. We can optimize the effectiveness of our grids by understanding which energy aligns best with the intention we are setting. Getting to know these seven crystal systems is another tool available when choosing which crystals to work with, while also enhancing your Crystal IQ!
Cubic
The first crystal system we will explore is called the Cubic or Isometric System. Crystals in this group all have internal lattice's with perfect symmetry. A cube is made of 6 square sides or faces all of which are at 90° angles from one another. The imaginary pink lines in the diagram below are called axis points. Since crystals form in 3-D we can envision this imaginary pink line going through the different faces of the crystal and recognize perfect symmetry is always achieved.
In addition to a cube, the Cubic Crystal System also includes internal lattices in the shape of an Octahedron and Dodecahedron. The image below depicts each of the three main lattice shapes of the Cubic System. All three demonstrate perfect symmetry as we saw with the cube above and therefore, are a conduit for energy in the same way. Keep in mind, what we are referring to in terms of lattice shape, is not usually visible to the naked eye, only under a microscope. However, in some cases, the exterior shape can match the internal lattice. An example of this occurrence is in a cube shaped piece of Pyrite or an octahedron shaped piece of Fluorite.
Cube, Octahedron and Dodecahedron
Crystal Grids
Crystals in the Cubic System can be used on grids just as bricks are used to build buildings. The energy from their perfectly symmetrical internal lattice helps us focus our efforts on improving something that already exists in our life. They help us build upon our current progress or success. If we are looking to manifest more of something, whether it be more compassion, more patience, more physical strength or more mental acuity, we can use cubic crystals and their energy on our grids to help us achieve our goals. In addition, because of their perfect symmetry, Cubic crystals can be used to add structure and focus to our own lives encouraging order and harmony.
The most common healing crystals that fall under the Cubic Crystal System include Pyrite, Fluorite, Lapis Lazuli, Cuprite, Gold, Garnet, Sodalite and Copper. Save or Pin the graphics below for future reference.
Conclusion
This concludes part five of our series, How to Select and Identify Healing Crystals, Crystal Grids and The Cubic Crystal System. Next week we will explore another of the seven crystal systems and how their energy can be used to help us manifest our intentions. In the mean time if you have any questions or need clarification on anything please don't hesitate to contact us either through the comment box below or by sending an email to info@soulsistersdesigns.com. We are happy to help in any way we can. Until next time!
Namaste,
Nicole and Sandy
Soul Sisters Designs
Work Cited
Crystalage.com. (2017). The Seven Crystal Systems Information. [online] Available at: http://www.crystalage.com/crystal_information/seven_crystal_systems/ [Accessed 6 Nov. 2017].
Farndon, J. and Livingstone, A. (n.d.). The practical encyclopedia of rocks & minerals.
Gemologyonline.com. (2017). Crystal Systems. [online] Available at: https://www.gemologyonline.com/crystal_systems.html [Accessed 7 Nov. 2017].
