Despite the hoary and bloody inception of Valentine’s day, it enjoys a status of being “the” day, worldwide, among old and young lovers alike, with the traditional gifts of flowers, candy, wine, and jewelry taking the first place as premier choices.

But has anyone given thought to the kind of gifts, original, and long-lasting, that are just as precious, as beautiful as the customary, yet bring with them as part of their integral qualities the gift of well-being?

Studies show that our environment affects our outlook, moods and sense of balance. Whatever heightens our perception of harmony, and beauty; whatever deepens our  appreciation for and awareness of our personal blessings and a peaceful surroundings is a contributory factor in healing.

Crystals are said to be invaluable in and around the home, office and places of spiritual enlightenment and are an unusual, delightful and beautiful gift for Valentine’s Day, or any occasion, since they are said to be curative, as well as therapeutic.  Bren Parks on Scienceray.com says: “…they (crystals) have an uncanny ability to absorb, conserve, focus and emit energy – especially on the electromagnetic waveband.  It is interesting to know that crystals have been tested using high tech equipment and have shown that they emit much more energy when being held or worn and less energy when they are sitting on a surface such as a table.”Read more: http://scienceray.com/earth-sciences/geology/introduction-to-crystals-and-their-formation/#ixzz1DgfsmOue

As to the origins of crystals, Bren explains:” Crystal were formed as the earth cooled.  It was a continual metamorphosis as a result of eons of geological change.  Because they contain a record of Earth’s development spanning millions of years and an indelible imprint of the powerful forces that formed our planet, crystals are considered by many as the DNA.  Many experts have refered to them as Mother Earth’s brain cells.

Read more: http://scienceray.com/earth-sciences/geology/introduction-to-crystals-and-their-formation/#ixzz1DggoepNc” Isn’t that fascinating? You’re giving a gift that is literally more than “one in a million.”  What a wonderful way of conveying to your loved one that this is how precious they are to you. But the benefits are far more complex and myriad where crystals are concerned. Each is said to have its own specialty…:

Is your girlfriend struggling with getting her business off the ground? Buy her some citrine, said to bring money prosperity. Is she having conflict about the next step in her career? Then Amethyst, said to have spiritual awareness properties, may help her clarify her thoughts. And let’s not forget Rose Quartz, known to be for enhancing love. On Healthmad.com, Ms. Parks takes us though each stone by color and what their relative properties heal http://healthmad.com/alternative/healing-crystals-their-color-classifications-and-benefits/ As does Namaste Café at: http://www.namastecafe.com/crystals/uses.htm

 To find good quality crystal can often be a challenge, but here in Miami Beach, one of the very best places to go for any kind of crystal, particularly the favorites, like genuine Rose Quartz, (a lovely, smooth,  pale pink stone) or Amethyst, its equally glorious deep violet counterpart, is Miami Gems and Minerals on 1556 Washington Avenue. Their website is: www.miamigems.com

The owner and proprietor, Rosie Miller, who exudes warmth and a fairy-like charm herself, vets the quality of every gem, and is deeply involved in ensuring that every piece brings its buyer supreme satisfaction. She is very knowledgeable about her products, and can converse at length regarding what is recommended, for what purpose.

With crystals, there is a price point to suit every budget.  At Miami Gems, they even give you a free gift with purchase. So what do you say? Instead of giving flowers, which are going to die in a few days, or a cheap version of jewelry that’s too expensive for your budget, why not a very big piece of Amethyst, or Rose Quartz, that will be there for your 10th anniversary, is sure to become a conversation piece, and, will, at the same time, balance her chakras – enhancing her mood, and-- your love?

This Valentine’s day, gift-wrap something spectacular.  You can always add chocolates later...