17 Crystals for the Total Solar Eclipse to Embrace Your Shadow and Light

A total solar eclipse is a rare, powerful event. Here are 17 of the best crystals for the total solar eclipse to help you work with its transformative energy.

During a total solar eclipse, the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily dimming daylight and captivating observers worldwide. The upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, offers a rare chance for introspection and renewal.

Throughout history, this cosmological event has been revered as a potent time for setting intentions and embracing change. The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States won't occur until 2045: so this is a rare opportunity to experience this cosmic event! Here are 17 of the best crystals for the total solar eclipse to help you work with its transformative energy.

Key Takeaways

• A total solar eclipse presents a time for reflection, shadow work, and transformation.
• Crystals can enhance the energetic experience of an eclipse.
• Try citrine, sunstone, black moonstone, black tourmaline, or another suggested crystal during the total solar eclipse.
• The 2024 total solar eclipse over North America can be a moment for facilitating personal and spiritual growth.

The Meaning and Significance of a Solar Eclipse

Solar eclipses occur during a new moon phase, when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, temporarily blocking the light of the sun. This alignment results in either a partial, total, or annular eclipse, depending on the relative positions of the sun, moon, and Earth. During a total solar eclipse, the sun is completely obscured, creating a dramatic celestial event.

Metaphysically, solar eclipses are often seen as potent portals for transformation and renewal. Energetically, they represent the interplay between light and shadow, symbolizing the union of opposing forces within the self and the collective consciousness. Solar eclipses invite us to confront our shadow side: the unresolved emotions, fears, and limiting beliefs that may be holding us back from fully embracing our authentic selves.

The darkness of the eclipse serves as a catalyst for inner reflection and introspection, encouraging us to delve deep into the recesses of our subconscious minds. It is a time to release what no longer serves us and to embrace change and transformation. Just as the sun's light is temporarily obscured during the eclipse, so too are the illusions and distractions that veil our true essence.

Solar eclipses offer an opportunity for spiritual growth and evolution, inviting us to step into the light of our highest potential. By facing our shadows with courage and openness, we can harness the transformative eclipse energy to illuminate our path forward and to align with our soul's purpose. Ultimately, solar eclipses remind us of the inherent balance and harmony present in the universe, as we navigate the cycles of light and darkness within ourselves and in the world around us.

Types of Eclipses

There are four types of eclipses:

• Partial Solar Eclipse: The Moon covers only a part of the Sun.
• Total Solar Eclipse: The entire Sun is obscured by the Moon for a brief period if you're in the path of totality.
• Annular Solar Eclipse: The Moon is too far from Earth to cover the Sun completely, leaving a “ring of fire”.
• Hybrid Solar Eclipse: Shifts between a total and an annular eclipse.

The April 8, 2024, eclipse is a total solar eclipse, offering the rare opportunity to witness minutes of totality. The moments of full eclipse, or totality, can last up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds, depending on your location within the path. 

What is Eclipse Season – and How Often is It?

An eclipse season refers to a period during which eclipses are more likely to occur. Eclipses generally come in pairs or trios, with a solar eclipse followed by a lunar eclipse (or vice versa) within a relatively short timeframe. These clusters of eclipses typically happen twice a year and are known as eclipse seasons. The exact timing for a total solar eclipse at any given location, however, can be years apart: that is why the 2024 total solar eclipse over the U.S. is such an exciting opportunity for many. It's far more common to experience a partial eclipse, where you're outside of the viewing area for the full effect, but may still be able to see a portion of it.

Partial eclipses occur when the alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun is such that only a portion of the Sun or Moon is obscured from view. During a partial solar eclipse, the Moon covers only part of the Sun's disk as seen from Earth, resulting in a crescent-shaped Sun. Similarly, in a partial lunar eclipse, only a portion of the Moon enters the Earth's shadow, leading to a dimming or darkening of part of the Moon's surface.

These events are relatively common compared to total eclipses because the alignment required for a total eclipse, where the Sun or Moon is completely obscured, is more precise and occurs less frequently. Nonetheless, partial eclipses still offer captivating astronomical displays and opportunities for observation and study.

During an eclipse season, the Sun is close to the lunar nodes, which are the points where the Moon's orbit intersects with the Earth's orbit around the Sun. Solar and lunar eclipses can only occur when the Sun, Moon, and Earth align near these nodes.

Eclipse seasons are significant astrologically and energetically, as they often coincide with periods of intensified change, transformation, and spiritual growth. The energy of an eclipse season can be felt weeks before and after the actual eclipses occur, as they serve as potent portals for personal and collective evolution.

Many people use eclipse seasons as opportunities for deep reflection, intention-setting, and inner work, as the heightened energies can facilitate profound shifts in consciousness and catalyze significant life changes. It's a time to pay attention to the themes and lessons that emerge in your life and to embrace the transformative potential of the cosmic energies at play.

How to View Solar Eclipses Safely

It is incredibly important to protect your eyes when observing any phase of a solar eclipse. Here's how you can watch safely: 

• Use proper solar filters made for solar eclipse viewing, such as eclipse glasses or handheld viewers. 
• Using indirect viewing methods, like pinhole projectors, can project the eclipse without needing to observe it directly.
• If you are using telescopes or cameras, be sure to get specialized solar filters so you won't damage your eyes.

During the brief phase of totality on April 8, 2024, you may safely glance at the full eclipse without protection, as the Sun's bright face will be completely hidden.

What Are Solar Eclipses Good for Spiritually and Energetically?

A total solar eclipse presents a profound opportunity for shadow work, the process of exploring and integrating the hidden or suppressed aspects of the self. During an eclipse, the alignment of celestial bodies intensifies energies, creating a potent environment for deep inner exploration. Symbolically, the eclipse mirrors the interplay of light and dark within the psyche, inviting you to confront your shadows—the unresolved emotions, fears, and limiting beliefs that may be hindering your personal growth.

As the sun temporarily disappears behind the moon, there's a natural inclination to turn inward, away from external distractions, and towards the depths of the self. This introspective energy encourages self-reflection and contemplation, fostering greater self-awareness and insight into one's inner landscape. The eclipse serves as a catalyst for change, marking a significant moment for beginnings and endings, making it an ideal time to initiate transformative inner work.

Engaging in shadow work during a total solar eclipse aligns with the rhythms of the lunar cycle, particularly as they occur close to the New Moon, a phase associated with new beginnings and intention-setting. By exploring your shadows during this potent celestial event, you can confront and release what no longer serves you, paving the way for increased healing, growth, and personal evolution.

Crystals for the Total Solar Eclipse

During a total solar eclipse, energies can be intense and transformative. Crystals can be used to work with, direct, and guide these energies, supporting your personal growth, spiritual development, and shadow work. The following crystal list focuses on crystals for the total solar eclipse. Check out this blog post for more general eclipse season crystals. 

Here are some of the best crystals for the total solar eclipse. There are several listed here, each with a brief description of why and how they can support you during the solar eclipse: read through them and choose the ones that resonate with you and your goals the most.  

1. Citrine: Citrine is a crystal of abundance, positivity, and manifestation. Its vibrant golden hue resonates with the solar energy, bringing warmth, joy, and optimism to any situation. During a total solar eclipse, citrine can serve as a powerful ally, helping to infuse the transformative energies of the eclipse with positivity and optimism. It encourages individuals to embrace change as an opportunity for growth and expansion, while also supporting manifestation efforts by amplifying intention and attracting abundance into their lives.
2. Black Moonstone: Black moonstone is a stone of intuition, mystery, and feminine energy. Unlike traditional white moonstone, black moonstone has a darker, more grounding energy that is particularly conducive to shadow work. During a total eclipse, black moonstone can help individuals delve deep into their subconscious minds, uncovering hidden truths and subconscious patterns that may be holding them back. It assists in releasing emotional blockages and fostering inner growth, while also providing protection and grounding during intense energetic shifts. Working with black moonstone during an eclipse can facilitate profound healing and transformation, guiding individuals on their journey towards wholeness and self-discovery.
3. Sunstone: Sunstone radiates warmth, vitality, and abundance, making it an ideal crystal to work with during the eclipse. Its uplifting energy infuses you with positivity and optimism, helping you embrace the transformative energies of the eclipse with enthusiasm and confidence. Sunstone empowers you to tap into your inner strength and personal power, guiding you towards self-discovery and spiritual growth. By aligning you with sun energy, Sunstone illuminates your path forward, encouraging you to shine brightly amidst the darkness and manifest your deepest desires with joy and vitality.
4. Black Tourmaline: Black Tourmaline acts as a shield against negativity, keeping you grounded and protected during the eclipse. It helps maintain stability amidst intense cosmic energies, ensuring you remain centered and unaffected by any negative influences.
5. Obsidian: Obsidian's ability to absorb and transmute negativity makes it a valuable ally during the eclipse. This black stone empowers you to release emotional blockages and confront hidden truths with courage and strength, facilitating profound inner transformation and growth.
6. Smoky Quartz: Smoky Quartz provides stability and resilience during times of change, making it an ideal companion for the eclipse. Its grounding energy clears away old patterns and negativity, guiding you towards new beginnings with confidence and clarity.
7. Labradorite: Labradorite offers clarity and insight as you navigate the depths of your psyche during the eclipse. Its energy illuminates your path of self-discovery, empowering you to confront and integrate the shadow aspects of yourself with wisdom and understanding.
8. Amethyst: Amethyst deepens your connection to higher realms, offering spiritual guidance and protection during the eclipse. Its calming energy soothes the mind and opens channels of intuition, allowing you to navigate the eclipse's energies with clarity and trust.
9. Hematite: Hematite's grounding influence keeps you rooted in the present moment, providing stability and inner strength amidst the turbulence of the eclipse. It dispels anxiety and fear, allowing you to face the unknown with resilience and confidence.
10. Selenite: Selenite purifies and uplifts your spirit, creating a clear channel for divine guidance and inner peace during the eclipse. Its gentle energy clears away energetic blockages, fostering a sense of clarity and renewal as you journey through the cosmic energies.
11. Moonstone: Moonstone enhances your intuition and emotional well-being during the eclipse, facilitating deep inner healing and transformation. Its feminine energy nurtures your soul and unveils hidden truths, guiding you towards greater self-awareness and emotional balance. Choose your favorite type, whether it's peach, white, grey, or rainbow moonstone.
12. Apache Tear: Apache Tear provides comfort and support during times of emotional upheaval, making it an invaluable ally for the eclipse. It empowers you to release grief and sorrow with grace and compassion, fostering emotional resilience and inner strength.
13. Lepidolite: Lepidolite brings peace and serenity to the chaos of the eclipse, promoting emotional balance and inner peace. Its calming energy eases anxiety and stress, guiding you through times of change with grace and ease.
14. Red Jasper: Known as a stone of empowerment and protection, Red Jasper can provide grounding and stability during an intense cosmic event, like a solar eclipse. Its earthy energy helps to anchor you to the present moment and provides a sense of security as you navigate the transformative energies at play. Red Jasper can also stimulate the root chakra, promoting a sense of safety and strength during times of change.
15. Flower Agate: Flower Agate is a relatively new and rare crystal known for its gentle, nurturing energy. It's often associated with personal growth, manifestation, and abundance. During a total solar eclipse, Flower Agate can support you in embracing new beginnings and planting seeds of intention for the future. Its soothing energy can also help to ease anxiety and promote emotional healing, making it an excellent companion for inner work during the eclipse.
16. Rose Quartz: As the stone of unconditional love and compassion, Rose Quartz can offer a comforting and nurturing presence during the intensity of a solar eclipse. Its gentle energy encourages self-love, forgiveness, and emotional healing, making it a valuable ally for releasing old wounds and embracing the transformative energies of the eclipse with an open heart. Rose Quartz can also help to balance and harmonize the heart chakra, fostering greater empathy and connection with others.
17. Clear Quartz: Clear Quartz is also a good crystal choice during a total solar eclipse. Its ability to magnify energies makes it particularly potent for intention-setting and manifestation during this celestial event. Clear Quartz crystals also offer purification of the energy field, assisting in releasing old patterns and negativity that may arise. Keep in mind, though, that its ability to amplify and heighten energy may not be for everyone during an eclipse. If you want or need a gentler approach, you may want to consider crystals like Amethyst or Smoky Quartz.

Eclipse Rituals and Practices

During a total solar eclipse, the alignment of the moon and sun creates a powerful moment for both reflection and intention. This celestial event is often seen as a significant time for personal growth and spiritual alignment. Dedicating time to a solar eclipse ritual is a great way to align with the unique energy it presents and consciously choose to create your reality. 

Total Solar Eclipse Shadow Work 

The energy of a total solar eclipse provides a powerful opportunity for shadow work, which involves exploring and integrating the hidden or unconscious aspects of yourself. Here are some steps you can take to engage in shadow work during the eclipse:

1. Set Intentions: Before the eclipse begins, take some time to reflect on what you want to explore or release during your shadow work. You may also want to create eclipse affirmations. Write down your intentions or speak them aloud, setting the stage for your inner journey.
2. Meditate: Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can sit and meditate during the eclipse. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing yourself to relax and become present in the moment. As thoughts and emotions arise, observe them without judgment, and gently guide your awareness to any areas of discomfort or resistance.
3. Journaling: Keep a journal nearby during the eclipse to record your thoughts, feelings, and insights as you engage in shadow work. Write freely and honestly, allowing whatever comes up to flow onto the page without censorship. Use prompts such as “What am I afraid to acknowledge about myself?” or “What patterns or behaviors do I need to release?” to guide your exploration.
4. Visualizations: Use the energy of the eclipse to visualize yourself facing and embracing your shadow aspects. Imagine yourself surrounded by light and love, and invite your shadow self to come forward and reveal itself to you. Explore any feelings of fear, shame, or discomfort that arise, and offer yourself compassion and acceptance as you integrate these aspects of yourself.
5. Rituals: Engage in rituals or ceremonies during the eclipse that symbolize your commitment to shadow work. This could include burning sage or incense to cleanse negative energy, lighting candles to illuminate the darkness within, or performing a releasing ceremony where you symbolically let go of old patterns or beliefs.
6. Seek Support: Consider working with a therapist, healer, or trusted friend who can support you in your shadow work journey. Having someone to hold space for you and offer guidance can be invaluable as you navigate the depths of your psyche.

Remember that shadow work is a deeply personal and often challenging process, but the energy of a total solar eclipse can provide a potent catalyst for transformation and growth. Be gentle with yourself, trust the process, and know that you are supported as you journey into the depths of your soul.

Working with Crystals During an Eclipse

Working with crystals during a total solar eclipse can enhance your experience and deepen your connection to the cosmic energies at play. Here are some ways you can incorporate crystals into your eclipse rituals:

1. Setting Intentions: Before the eclipse begins, take some time to meditate with your crystals and set your intentions for the event. Hold the crystals in your hands, close your eyes, and visualize what you want to manifest or release during the eclipse.
2. Creating a Crystal Grid: Arrange your crystals in a geometric pattern known as a crystal grid to amplify their energies. Place them in a sacred space where you'll be observing the eclipse, and visualize the grid radiating positive energy and intention throughout the event.
3. Meditating with Crystals: During the eclipse, find a quiet space where you can sit comfortably and meditate with your crystals. Hold them in your hands or place them on your body, and allow their energies to support you as you journey inward and connect with the cosmic energies of the eclipse.
4. Charging Crystals: The intense energies of a solar eclipse can also be used to cleanse and charge your crystals. Place them outside during the eclipse, either directly in the path of the Moon's shadow or in a place where they can absorb the energy of the event.
5. Journaling: Keep a journal nearby during the eclipse to record any insights, emotions, or experiences that arise while working with your crystals. Writing down your thoughts can help you process the energy of the eclipse and gain clarity on any intentions or goals you've set.

Remember to trust your intuition and work with the crystals that resonate most strongly with you. Each crystal has its own unique properties and energies, so choose the ones that align with your intentions for the eclipse. And most importantly, take time to be present and fully experience the magic of the moment.

Journaling and/or Scrapbooking the Total Solar Eclipse 

Creating a scrapbook or junk journal page for the eclipse is a great way to remember the experience. Begin by selecting your favorite photos and arranging them on the page, capturing the highlights of the event such as the progression of the eclipse or the reactions of you and your friends or family.

Add ephemera and embellishments to enhance the visual appeal, incorporating celestial-themed elements like stars and moons to complement the eclipse theme. Consider including handwritten notes or journal entries to capture your thoughts and feelings during the event, adding a personal touch to your layout. 

If you need some ideas, we've got a selection of stock photos, digital paper, and clip art that is perfect for personal or commercial use!

Finding a Solar Eclipse Gathering 

Lots of cities in the Path of Totality have been advertising numerous eclipse watching events. Attending a total solar eclipse gathering offers a unique opportunity to share in the wonder of a rare celestial event with a large group of people. It's a chance to come together with friends, family, and fellow humans to witness the awe-inspiring moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, temporarily casting a shadow over the land.

If an in-person gathering sounds like fun to you, check out your local options and find one that fits you best, whether it involves live music and entertainment or is more of a quiet, meditative event. Whether you're a seasoned skywatcher or a first-time observer, being part of a total solar eclipse gathering is a great way to connect with others and create lasting memories with this once in a lifetime event.

Total Solar Eclipse Ideas for Metaphysical and Crystal Businesses

Crystal and metaphysical businesses have a unique opportunity to leverage the total solar eclipse to support their audience and customers by offering specialized products, services, and content tailored to the event. Here are some strategies they can implement:

1. Eclipse-themed Products: Create special collections of crystals, jewelry, candles, and other metaphysical items inspired by the energy of the eclipse. Consider incorporating celestial motifs, such as sun and moon symbols, to align with the eclipse theme and appeal to customers seeking to harness its transformative energies.
2. Eclipse Ritual Kits: Develop curated ritual kits designed specifically for the total solar eclipse, containing a selection of crystals, herbs, incense, and guided meditation or ritual instructions. These kits can help customers tap into the potent energies of the eclipse and facilitate their spiritual practice during this auspicious time.
3. Educational Content: Produce blog posts, videos, or social media content that educates customers about the significance of the eclipse and offers guidance on how to work with crystals and metaphysical tools to enhance their eclipse experience. Share tips for setting intentions, performing rituals, and navigating the energetic shifts associated with the event.
4. Eclipse Events and Workshops: Host virtual or in-person events, workshops, or webinars focused on the total solar eclipse and its spiritual significance. Invite guest speakers, practitioners, or astrologers to share their insights and expertise, and offer attendees the opportunity to engage in group rituals or meditations to amplify the eclipse energy.
5. Community Engagement: Foster a sense of community and connection among your audience by creating dedicated social media groups or online forums where customers can share their eclipse experiences, ask questions, and support one another on their spiritual journey. Encourage user-generated content, such as eclipse altar photos or crystal grids, to further enhance engagement and foster a sense of belonging.

By embracing the energy of the total solar eclipse and offering tailored products, services, and content, crystal and metaphysical businesses can deepen their connection with their audience and provide valuable support during this transformative cosmic event.