Stone Cleansing
Before first using your stone it should be cleansed, this is important to clean away any energy imbalances it may have picked up along the way. Crystals and gemstones have a tendency to absorb emotional stress and other strong energies from all who touch them, it is important to remove these imbalances.
There are varying methods that can be used to cleanse, some of which are listed below and are very effective.
Salt Method
These is a very simple method, use a small bowl of salt and bury your stone in it so it is completely covered for about 24 hours, remove, wiped the stone clean and dispose of the used salt. Normal everyday salt can be used though many prefer to use a sea salt.
Sun - Moon Method
Place your stones out in the sun or a window ledge for approximately 12 hours, the same can be done for the moon method, though if you are patient leave the stones in place for 24 hours to cover both moon and sun which will be more beneficial.
Crystal Cluster
Place your stone on a crystal cluster over night to cleanse, balance and re-charge your stone.
There are certain stones that if kept with others are natural cleansers, Carnelian being one.