Introduction

Crystals can fill your life with magic, their uniquely radiant and sparkling brand of magic. Born from the ancient rumblings and rattlings of our beautiful Earth, literally seeded by stardust from the dawn of time, crystals and minerals are magic-filled tools that are fantastically easy to add into your daily life. You don't need special knowledge or training to begin experiencing the power of crystals, and you certainly don't need to spend loads of money on expensive specimens. All you need to get started is a sense of wonder and open-minded curiosity towards the intricate, gorgeous and powerful creations that are minerals and crystals.


What are the differences? 

Minerals
Minerals are generally formed from only one chemical composition; more than one and they turn into rocks. The definition of a mineral is
1. Naturally occurring:
2. Solid
3. Inorganic
4. Has an internal crystalline structure; however, not all minerals form crystals large enough to be visible to our human eyes. Which means that while all crystals are minerals, not all minerals are crystals. Examples of minerals that do not have a visible crystalline structure: Malachite, Hematite, Carnelian.

Crystals
Crystals generally refer to minerals with a visible crystallised form. This means that they show a faceted, symmetrical (cubic) or asymmetrical (rhombohedral), three dimensional, geometric form. The astounding variety of crystals actually fits into just six categories or 'crystal system', each with its own unique geometric shape, making crystal identification much easier than it might seem at first glance. Examples of crystals: Quartz, Pyrite, Fluorite

Rocks
Rocks are generally formed from grains of multiple minerals fused together into a solid mass. Rocks may contain organic material, which true minerals cannot (for example, Shungite is a rock made from ancient vegetation).
Examples of rocks:
Jade, Obsidian, Lapis Lazuli

Gemstones
Gemstones are minerals or rocks strong enough to be cut and polished for jewellery. Only about 200 of the 5000+ minerals and rocks can be shaped into gemstones. 
Example of gemstones: Moonstone, Labradorite, Turquoise

Stones
Stones is a non-technical term, commonly used in the mineral world to refer to small specimens whose rough edges have been mechanically polished away
Also known as tumbled stones or polished stones.