The Book of Sacred Stones: Fact and Fallacy in the Crystal World

By Barbara G. Walker

Book Overview

Bestselling author Barbara Walker debunks the tall tales surrounding crystal mysticism and offers instead an intelligent alternative that includes a complete guide to minerals and their histories. Because of her profound admiration for the beauty and mystery of crystals, Barbara Walker reveals in this two-part examination what crystals truly are, what they can -- and cannot do, and what they have meant to cultures down through the ages. She exposes the crystal mystics' grotesque ignorance of the very subject of which they claim expertise and presents detailed discussions on crystal "vibrations," healing, and energies. She points with humor and insight to the incomprehensible "word salad" crystal mystics use to explain their notions. Then, featuring an illustrated A to Z listing of all the minerals used in esoteric studies, Walker presents the true history, mythology, and attributes of each stone. This invaluable reference is for anyone interested in the facts and fiction of crystal mysticism.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0062509217
• ISBN13: 9780062509215
• Release Date: September 1989
• Publisher: Harper & Row Publishers
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 0.84 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.3" x 0.7" x 6.1"

Customer Reviews

A worthwhile investment

This is definitely one of the best books I've read on the subject. Over the past few years my interest in gemstones has increased, leading me to further investigate the subject by purchasing various "New Age" books. I'm impressed by Ms. Walker's technical knowledge and clarification of the healing properties associated with individual stones. I also enjoyed reading about stones which are usually not even referred to in other books, such as labradorite, cinnabar, etc. The photographs are beautiful, which only enhance her work. I believe this book is an asset to anyone's collection who is genuinely interested in a truly fascinating topic.

Excellent Gemological Resource

This reader friendly book is a well researched and documented source for reliable gemological and mineralogical information, with an anthropological bent. It traces the relationship between mankind and gemstones. This passionate relationship is as old as the species itself. Barbara Walker chronicles many of the current metaphysical associations and claims attributed to stones that are supported with irresponsible New Age pseudoscience. She correctly explains many terms and concepts that have been misused and/or misstated in recent New Age literature. I found the book compelling!