Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic (Cunningham's Encyclopedia Series) [Paperback]

Scott Cunningham (Author)

Book Description

Series: Cunningham's Encyclopedia Series | Publication Date: 1998

Practice an ancient magic that is both natural and powerful—the elemental Earth magic of crystals, stones, and metals. This comprehensive and clear guidebook by Scott Cunningham has introduced over 200,000 readers to the secrets of over 100 gems and metals. Learn how to find and cleanse stones and use them in divinations, spells, and tarot card readings. Discover how to determine the energies and stories contained within each stone, and the symbolic meanings of a stone's color and shape. Also included in this classic guide:

—A 16-page full-color insert, new with this edition
—Birthstone and jewelry magic lore
—Tables listing both planetary and elementary rulers of stones, magical intentions, and magical substitutions

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic, serves two purposes. First, it is a basic introduction to magic. It includes how magic works and how you can design spells that incorporate stones and metals. Author Scott Cunningham also describes how you can use stones for doing divinations, even using them as a type of Tarot.

But it is the second part where this book really shines. It reveals magical uses of over 100 crystals, gems, stones, and metals. Now, you may know what gold or quartz looks like, but do you know what peridot or staurolite look like? If not, don't worry. The book includes twenty-five full-color photos showing these and many other of the magical items described in this book so you can easily make select them for your magical purposes.

As a reference tool on the subject, there is nothing better. Pick a stone, gem, or metal and Scott shares planetary and elemental rulers along with magical powers and uses. Sun Bear, founder of the Bear Tribe, says that "Scott Cunningham's well-researched book, I feel, validates our feelings and thoughts about stones and minerals and their spiritual power." Anodea Judith, author of Wheels of Life, calls it "well-organized, well-researched and user-friendly." She also says that "this book is a splendid addition to the magical library."

These experts, and many more, agree that this book is a must. In fact, over 210,000 people have already made this book a part of their collections. So if you have ever wondered what secrets lie within the water-worn pebble lying on the beach or what energies pulse inside the stone on your finger or the gems around your neck, this is the book for you. You may discover that the very rocks you walk on could draw a new love into your life or help you financially.

About the Author

Scott Cunningham practiced magic actively for over twenty years. He was the author of more than fifty books covering both fiction and non-fiction subject matter; sixteen of his titles are published by Llewellyn Publications. Scott's books reflect a broad range of interests within the New Age sphere, where he was very highly regarded. He passed from this life on March 28, 1993, after a long illness.

Product Details

• Paperback: 221 pages
• Publisher: Llewellyn Publications; 1st edition (1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0875421261
• ISBN-13: 978-0875421261
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (75 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #27,039 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #2 in Books > Education & Reference > Encyclopedias > Medical
  • #9 in Books > Education & Reference > Encyclopedias > Mythology & Folklore
  • #10 in Books > Religion & Spirituality > New Age > Divination > Crystals

More About the Author

Scott Cunningham practiced magic actively for over twenty years. He was the author of more than fifty books covering both fiction and non-fiction subject matter; sixteen of his titles are published by Llewellyn Publications. Scott's books reflect a broad range of interests within the New Age sphere, where he was very highly regarded. He passed from this life on March 28, 1993, after a long illness.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

113 of 117 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars One of the best references available on this subject, September 17, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic (Cunningham's Encyclopedia Series) (Paperback)

This book is detailed but not exhaustive. Cunningham has a way of cutting through the veils of arcane muddle and get right to the subject at hand. This is the reference that we recommend for those that wish to enter the world of gemstone, crystal and metal magic and a must for anyone that needs a reference on this subject. The description of each mineral or metals mystical properties are clearly described in enough detail to let you know what is is best suited for. The chapters preceding the descriptions are written in a simple and straight forward manner that does not favor any one religion or belief system. He lets the reader take what they need from it and apply it accordingly. Mr. Cunningham also includes a quick reference summary that is set up in a logical and easy to use format. It is a shame that Scott Cunningham is no longer with us. His direct way of sharing this important information is still needed in the spiritual community.

48 of 51 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars One for the library, but not the only one, February 1, 2000

By 

Alison - See all my reviews

This review is from: Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic (Cunningham's Encyclopedia Series) (Paperback)

Cunningham is widely respected by most pagan types, and deservedly so. Most of his reference books are thorough and authoritative. His gemstone book, however has some drawbacks. The photos in the book are poor: They aren't very representative of the specimens a collector or practitioner is likely to encounter. Also, there is a limit to the thoroughness of his entries on each mineral. This book is a decent introduction to crystals and gemstones. However, for those serious about the practice of magick involving gems, THIS SHOULD NOT BE THE ONLY BOOK IN YOUR COLLECTION.

32 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An indispensable addition to the occult library, September 27, 1998

By 

strega2 "strega2" (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic (Cunningham's Encyclopedia Series) (Paperback)

The late Scott Cunningham had a remarkable talent for compiling information into clear and readable accounts, such as his works on herbs,oils, incense, foods, etc. This book is no exception, as he offers an exhaustive encyclopedia about the magical properties of gems and precious metals. He provides a succinct history of the uses of each stone, its folklore, the deities it represents, and its magical uses. His bibliographies are always appreciated, as they are annotated, and offer a very helpful guide to further reading.