What if the most powerful stone you could work with isn't a glittering amethyst or polished rose quartz—but a simple piece of flint you found in your backyard? Crystal expert and author Nicholas Pearson joins Rose to reveal the ancient magic hidden in witching stones, the sacred wisdom of the crone archetype, and why choosing crystals intuitively might be the most important thing you're not doing.Whether you're new to crystals or a seasoned practitioner, this episode will completely shift how you see—and work with—the mineral kingdom.In this episode, you'll discover:The real difference between crystals, minerals, rocks, stones, and gems (and why it actually matters energetically)How to choose crystals intuitively—and why the ones that make you uncomfortable might be exactly what you needHow to set intentions and "charge" your crystals for specific, powerful resultsThe stones most powerfully linked to the crone archetype and women in their wisdom yearsWhy lepidolite (the "grandmother stone") is a must-have for navigating midlife transitions, anxiety, and uncertaintyThe mythic and alchemical significance of emerald and its deep connection to the divine feminineHagstones, obsidian, jet, and moonstone—and how to work with them for transformation and psychic awarenessHow many crystals to keep by your bed (and what happens when you have too many)A sneak peek at Nicholas's upcoming book, Reiki RitualsAbout Nicholas PearsonNicholas Pearson is among the foremost experts on crystals, combining nearly 30 years of experience in the mineral kingdom with extensive training in mineral science, Reiki, and the mystical arts. A Reiki Shihan (master teacher), Nicholas studied mineral science at Stetson University and has worked for years at the Gillespie Museum—home to the largest mineral collection in the southern United States—where he currently serves as curator. He is the author of more than a dozen books including The Witching Stones, Stones of the Goddesses, Crystal Basics, Crystals for Psychic Self-Defense, and Foundations of Reiki Ryoho.🌐 Find Nicholas: theluminouspearl.com | @theluminouspearlRose Wippich is an Energy Alchemist, Reiki Master, and host of Chat Off The Mat—a podcast exploring energy, empowerment, and transformation for women. She helps women embody their Empress energy and rewrite the narrative of aging through her book Empress Rising: Own Your Energy, Trust Your Wisdom, and Rewrite the Rules of Aging 👑 Don’t miss your chance to step into your reign as an Empress — your wisdom years are your most radiant yet.Connect with Rose 🌐 rosewippich.com 🎙️ Subscribe to Chat Off The Mat | Leave a review | Share with a friend who needs to hear itJoin me on SUBSTACK!  Together, let's create a community of Empresses!  Please review  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ via Apple Review or Podchaser. Produced by Rose Wippich | Chat Off The Mat Podcast© 2026 Rose Wippich