May contain beryllium, copper, and rare earths Soluble in acids Zircon Slightly radioactive Soluble in acids May contain heavy metals Soluble in water Soluble in acids Other members of the epidote group contain lead and radioactive elements May contain heavy metals Soluble in acids

Hexavalent Chromium, Lead Soluble in acids Mercury Can react dangerously if accidentally swallowedĪrsenic, Cobalt Can react dangerously if accidentally swallowedĬopper Can react dangerously if accidentally swallowed If you find any incorrect or inconsistent information in this table, please contact the IGS team.Īrsenic, Copper may react with water and acidsĬan react dangerously if accidentally swallowedĬopper, Lead, Arsenic Slightly soluble in acids As long as you’re not eating rock dust, toxicity from these stones is unlikely. While these can be toxic, the dose required to induce a toxic reaction is exceptionally high. Avoid ingesting gems that may produce these dangerous substances.įinally, most lists of toxic gems on crystal healing websites include aluminum and a few other elements as toxic. Certain gems may react dangerously with stomach acid to produce hydrofluoric acid (HF) or hydrogen sulfide gas (H 2S). If you swallow particles of these gems, their dissolution in your stomach could release impurities in the mineral. In addition, some gems have no known toxicity but are still soluble in acids. They should also avoid putting these gems in their or their patients’ mouths. Potential Toxicity for Intentional Gemstone IngestionĬrystal healers should avoid making potions with toxic gems. Furthermore, inhalation of asbestos and silica can be physically toxic.įor additional information, see our articles on lapidary health hazards and safety tips and toxic and radioactive gem safety tips. Inhalation or accidental ingestion of particles could be detrimental to your health. Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting potentially toxic minerals. While certain heavy metals have adverse effects at any concentration, others are far less toxic. Water soluble gems will also require extra care. However, radioactivity in minerals containing uranium and thorium should be assessed using a Geiger counter prior to handling. Most minerals are safe to handle normally. Medium-dark orange-red crocoite, 1.13 cts, 4.7 mm, square step cut, Red Lead Mine, Dundas, Tasmania.

Glass gems