Exploring Power & Simplicity of Crystals

A Book Review

Power & Simplicity of Crystals

By Allan Spiers & Jeff Cullen

There are books that inform, and then there are books that initiate. Power & Simplicity of Crystals is the latter — a deceptively small guide that distills decades of insight into a well-crafted, reverent text for both the novice and the seasoned practitioner.

This isn’t fluff. It’s field notes. It’s a zine of clarity and conviction in a genre often muddied with misdirection. What Allan and Jeff have curated here is an elegant primer on crystal magic that is precise, ethical, and refreshingly no-nonsense — a rare feat.

Crystal Care, Without the Cliché

From the outset, the authors dismantle romanticized assumptions around crystal maintenance. They don’t regurgitate the usual “run it under a full moon and sage it silly” script. Instead, they emphasize practical, responsible handling — especially regarding toxicity, solubility, and light sensitivity.

This section alone is worth the booklet’s cost. It not only teaches, it respects the mineral allies we work with.

Debunking, Decoding, and ‘No Touchy-Touchy’

One standout is their candid take on the “charging” myth — the idea that crystals need to be energetically topped off like phones. Here, Allan and Jeff lean into a quieter truth: crystals are power. They don’t need your full moon selfie to function.

They also introduce a curious (and somewhat contentious) idea: that one should avoid touching crystals that aren’t theirs. While this may ruffle communal feathers, it’s shared with humor and humility — not dogma. Whether or not you agree, it opens a valuable dialogue about consent, energy, and stewardship in magical spaces.

Imitations, Trademarks & the Truth Beneath the Shine

The deep dive into crystal imitation, enhancement, and trademarking is arguably the booklet’s most gripping section. If you’ve ever questioned whether your “Super Seven” is legitimate — spoiler: it probably isn’t — this will be your favorite chapter.

The authors walk readers through the nuanced world of lab-created stones, misidentified minerals, and the strange ecosystem of crystal branding. They educate without shaming, and they arm the reader with discernment — one of the witch’s most vital tools.

Properties, Folklore, and Substitution as Spellcraft

Closing the booklet is a compact yet potent overview of crystal properties and folklore, capped with a thoughtful guide to crystal substitutions. This last section is a nod to accessibility — a reminder that magic is not built on scarcity or elitism, but on understanding, intent, and adaptability.

It’s not just about what you have — it’s about what you do with it.

Final Thoughts: A Small Book with Immense Weight

Power & Simplicity of Crystals is exactly what the title promises: a book that honors the complexity of crystal magic while refusing to overcomplicate it. The language is crisp, the tone respectful, and the wisdom well-earned.

It belongs on the altar, in the travel pouch, and on the nightstand. It’s the kind of book that gets dog-eared and underlined, that’s passed around between witches who mean it.

If you’ve ever felt adrift in the sea of crystal misinformation, consider this your lighthouse.