Crystals have captivated humanity for millennia, their ethereal beauty and purported mystical properties drawing people from all walks of life. These natural treasures, long admired for their beauty, are experiencing a global resurgence. Let’s explore the reasons behind this trend and dive deep into the world of crystals, examining their allure and purported properties through the eyes of Akshay Gund, a passionate crystal collector in India and founder of Kaivalya—House of Crystals. Mehak Walia, in conversation with Akshay Gund, the founder of Kaivalya – House of Crystals and the passionate crystal collector, about the essence and reason crystals are trending.
Crystals Journey
Discovering a New Path
Akshay Gund hails from Pune, where his academic journey began with a fascination for animals, leading him to study zoology at Wadia College. This interest in the natural world evolved into a more profound curiosity about digital mapping, which he pursued at the Symbiosis Institute through a postgraduate degree in Geo-Informatics. However, his true calling emerged in a rather unexpected domain—crystals.
“Initially, I started making videos on YouTube, educating people about crystals and minerals and showing them how to find these beauties in nature,” Akshay shares. The positive response and the feedback he received highlighted a disturbing trend in the Indian crystal market: exorbitant prices and counterfeit products. This realization sparked the creation of Kaivalya – House of Crystals in 2022, a venture aimed at providing genuine, affordable crystals while educating the public about their true nature.
The Essence of Crystals
As Akshay explains, crystals are semi-precious rocks formed over millions of years through crystallization. This natural phenomenon results in unique structures and formations, much like diamonds. Crystals’ allure lies in their beauty, which is why they are trending today. From holistic health and alternative medicine to spiritual practices and aesthetics, crystals have found their place in modern society.
“Many people believe crystals have healing properties and can promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being,” Akshay notes. This belief, rooted in ancient traditions, sees crystals used for stress relief, energy balancing, and enhancing meditation experiences. Beyond their spiritual applications, crystals are also cherished for their aesthetic appeal, making them popular in fashion and interior design.
A Personal Belief in the Power of Crystals
The efficacy of crystals often hinges on individual belief systems. Akshay acknowledges this, stating, “With one’s beliefs, a stone can become a place of worship.” Historical evidence supports the longstanding use of crystals, with artifacts like Lapis Lazuli and Malachite found in ancient Egyptian tombs. Akshay’s conviction is that nature’s gifts, including crystals, are meant for the betterment of humankind.
Encounters with individuals who have experienced the supposed spiritual powers of crystals further bolster his belief. Stories of crystals curing ailments or providing comfort underscore the potential impact these natural formations can have on people’s lives. He adds with a warm smile, “I believe that anything which nature provides to humankind is for their betterment. So, it’s up to you to believe or let the crystal do its magic.”
The Thrill of the Hunt
For Akshay, the process of mining crystals is nothing short of exhilarating. “Finding rocks or crystals in their natural habitat gives me pleasure and bliss,” he admits. This passion dates back to his childhood fascination with collecting random rocks. His journey into crystal hunting was inspired by videos of enthusiasts abroad and the knowledge shared by local crystal collectors.
A pivotal moment in Akshay’s crystal-hunting adventures occurred during a visit to a nearby quarry, where he discovered rare Cavansite crystals unique to Pune. This lucky find began an ongoing journey of discovery and learning.
Building Trust and Delivering Quality
Selling crystals, Akshay finds, is as much about education as it is about commerce. Through platforms like Instagram (@crystal_hunt_india), he connects with customers worldwide, learning from their experiences and addressing their needs. The ethical sourcing and direct retrieval of crystals from miners ensure the quality and authenticity of his products.
Customer feedback often highlights the high vibrations of the Kaivalya – House of Crystals crystals, a testament to their authenticity and the care taken in their selection. Akshay’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the meticulous packaging and prompt delivery of orders, creating a seamless purchasing experience.
A Message to the Skeptics
Akshay offers a philosophical perspective to those skeptical about crystals’ powers. “Everyone has a right to speak about everything good, bad, and worse,” he says. Embracing a belief in magic and universal energies, he encourages an open mind, suggesting that “Human minds can only understand science and logic for now. But there are things that human minds can never understand or believe. After all, magic happens when logic fails.”
Akshay’s journey and work with crystals reveal a blend of passion, belief, and a commitment to bringing genuine, affordable beauty to those who seek it. Through Kaivalya—House of Crystals—he provides exquisite natural formations and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of these timeless wonders.
So, what do you think? Do you believe in the power and essence of crystals now?
