Crystals aren’t for everyone. They’re easy to shun into the pile of new-age nonsense but, if you’re in any way inclined, give them a chance and see if they work for you. And, if they don’t, they can just look pretty in your Instagram pictures.

When it comes to confidence — something that, hand in hand with anxiety, is a major issue for millennials — healing crystals can be a comfort, especially when used alongside books, apps or therapists. There may not be cold hard science to back up their effects but, if they work for you, who needs proof? With nearly 20 million Google searches for ‘crystals for confidence’, they must be doing something right.

‘Confidence is a very personal state of being — a delicious vibe once harnessed, but which can be terrifying when it feels out of control’, says author and healer Emma Lucy Knowles. ‘There are a wonderful array of crystals to aid in supporting our confidence, be it in your self or in the external, but the crystal of choice is as personal as the situation you find yourself in.’

Here’s Emma Lucy’s pick of the best stones to seek for a big dose of self-belief — so get them on your radar and see which resonates:

CONFIDENCE IN YOURSELF

BEST CRYSTAL? Tiger’s Eye
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE? Red, brown and gold
WHAT DOES IT DO? Known as the protector and ultimate confidence seeker, Tiger’s Eye allows you to see through your doubt, bridging over the challenge of fear and old redundant doubts, allowing you to live your life with a comforting level of confidence. It promotes a sharpness to our inner sight which enables us to see and trust things as they really are, while strengthening us in times of change.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE IT? Whenever you’ve got that thing on the horizon you’re freaking out about — maybe it’s a big meeting or a first date — or just for those days when you’re in need of some self-assured grounding.

CONFIDENCE AT WORK

BEST CRYSTAL? Fluoride
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE? It comes in many colours, including green, blue, purple, yellow and brown
WHAT DOES IT DO? Aiding focus and clarity by quieting the mental chitter-chatter, fluoride sharpens the strongest tools in your set; enhancing your confidence in learning, in self-belief, organisation and general structure of everyday life.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE IT? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by how much or what there is to do and filled with doubt that you’ll be capable.

CONFIDENCE IN COMMUNICATION & CHANGE

BEST CRYSTAL? Turquoise
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE? Bluey-green
WHAT DOES IT DO? Turquoise encourages you take hold of the reins of self; helping you flourish by giving you confidence to speak your truth and the ability to hear others’. It also dials down the interference of technology, balances your mood, promotes clarity to allow for sharp decision-making, boosts energy when feeling exhausted — at the same time! A true all-rounder when seeking to change the game.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE IT? Not sure how to ‘be you’ in the here and now or a particular situation? Then this crystal will work with you to allow your talents to be spoken and shown without fear of embarrassment or rejection.

CONFIDENCE IN COMMITMENT/OTHERS

BEST CRYSTAL? Ruby
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE? Warming red
WHAT DOES IT DO? The enriching ruby and its powerful tone — much like the flicks of a flame — promotes a long-lasting, burning, deeply fuelled and hugely energising vibe, which calms you into a natural state of confidence. A crystal for protection, it guards you from the gossiping tongue, the fear of other whispers or those of your ego.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE IT? When you want to bravely commit to the task or person at hand, it will help you hold your esteem gently and confidently on high as you explore and share your passion for yourself or another.

CONFIDENCE IN YOUR PASSION/SELF MOTIVATION

BEST CRYSTAL? Chrysocolla
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE? Coppery blue-green
WHAT DOES IT DO? Your trust sidekick, deflecting and discharging negativity (from man and machine!), this is a real all-round team player. It not only calms, but energises and reduces self-doubt while boosting confidence and enhancing your personal power.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE IT? If keeping cool and carrying on is what’s needed, but seems impossible. Also a stone of re-birth, it can help you bring life to a tired scene, like a seemingly stagnant role.

Read more: 7 self-confidence books for a boost of badassery