I didn't know where to ask this question? I was in a cemetery a few weeks ago and noticed a headstone of a young girl that had passed, it had all kinds of crystals placed on top and bottom of the headstone, and in glass jars along the sides. My question is, does anyone know why this is done? I have been in many cemeteries and never have seen anything like this before and I am very curious about what I saw. I would be greatful if anyone could answer this for me, It has been on my mind for awhile now. Thanks =)

I know that Jewish custom includes putting rocks or pebbles on top of a Jewish headstone as a sign of respect left by visiting friends or family members.

Barb, I have never heard of anything like this before. Maybe the girl was Jewish and that would be explained by Connie's answer to your post. I'll look around and if I come across anything with information on that I'll let ya know! And you do the same...I am also curious about this. The only other time I have seen something like this is at the abandoned cemetary Bachelor's Grove[/URL]. Many of those were covered in candles, rocks, dolls, and lots of other little trinkets. Many people placed those object on the headstones during seances and what not. There are no longer any bodies remaining there, but there is still quite a bit of paranormal activity.
Anyway, that's all I can tell ya for now!

Christine

I've seen this done in Catholic cemetaries and in some modern Native American cemetaries. As for the rocks and crystals, I'm not sure of the symbolism. I think the little trinkets left behind are things that represent the deceased's loved ones interests they had in life. For example, I've seen little matchbox cars and trucks on the grave of a young man who was a mechanic. I've seen dolls on the graves of little girls. I think a lot of it is to give the families a little comfort that their loved one is enjoying the things they loved in the afterlife.
I always put a small Christmas tree on my father's grave for the holidays. He always enjoyed the Christmas season, so for me, it is symbolic. The last time I took my nephew to visit his grandfather's grave, he left his yo-yo so "Grandpa could have something to play with."
Hope this helps a little!

Sorry about the first reply "big fingers got in the way" . Thanks for the info. I have seen many things left of graves before I just brought a small yankee flag for my father-in-laws grave, it's just that there were so many of these stones or crystal, I thought maybe it was to protect against negative energies. Carrie I think you have got a beautiful caring nephew there, to want to leave his yo-yo so his grandfather could have something to play with how thoughtful =) (you made me tear up on that one). Shows how caring your family must be. You guys are great, thank-you for taking the time to help me with my question. Take care

Thanks Barb! He is a pretty special little guy! =)

Hello guys and gals.
stones/god/esses or mascots are also used in the study of wicca.
Has lots of meanings according to the energy you put into it.for exampe.
Emerald(the crystal) has the power to heal
Hyperactivity, mental disorders.In Psychic/Emotional aspect Improves creativity.
one more example.Opal is the master healer, and removes quilt.Garnet power to hal heart problems, and circulation and emotional aspect boosts energy....this may or may not help.. but good luck...

I wasn't able to find anything in the quick search I did about this, but springboarding from Wendy's post... perhaps the crystals are there for the powers/properties they hold. Crystals aren't only connected to Wicca - they stand alone in their own right.

We have a section about them on the website, which lists their individual powers and soforth. If you want to take a look, here's the URL: SpiritKeep - Crystals & Gemstones[/URL]

Kell

[ August 21, 2003, 04:47 PM: Message edited by: KellKell ]

Kell, thanks for the info on crystals and gems I added this to my favorites. Once again thanks to everyone for the help.