After the turmoil of the past couple of years, just about everyone is in need of some good vibes. So why not kick off the new year with some expert tips from local gemstone professional Brooke Bertelsen of Elysian Fields? Bertelsen knows how to harness the power of different crystals custom-picked for your astrological sign.

Tips to keep in mind: Despite the matches between gems and zodiac signs, you don't have to be limited to just one, says Bertelsen. For example, if you need to focus on communication and you're not a Taurus, blue kyanite can still help.

Does the size of the gem matter? "The larger the stone, the more atoms are clashing together at that frequency,” Bertelsen says. That said, bigger doesn’t always mean better. A bigger stone can exert more energy towards what you may want to achieve, she explains, but if you want the stone to be wearable or portable, smaller is good. 

As far as storing stones, keep them where is most convenient for you. “I carry a moonstone in my purse for safe travels,” Bertelsen says. 

Depending on the size, cut, type and quality, prices can range anywhere from less than $5 to into the millions, but speaking with a crystal specialist can help hone in on what's right for you. Here are Bertelsen's Zodiac sign and crystal pairings.

Aries: Tiger’s Eye for Confidence

Aries should focus on growth and risk-taking. Tiger’s eye is meant to harness those energies to encourage taking risks that might be scary but could pay off, like starting a business or switching jobs. Let this golden-hued stone nudge you toward taking the leap. 

Taurus: Blue Kyanite for Communication

Taurus should focus on stepping out of their comfort zone in 2022. Bertelsen points to this gem to help Taurus communicate thoughts and ideas more clearly, verbalizing what they want. Trouble putting thoughts and feelings involving a partner or roommate into words? Blue kyanite can help organize the jumble for more productive conversation.

Gemini: Celestite for Communicating Emotions

Geminis should focus on fulfilling emotional needs. This traditionally extroverted sign is known to worry about others' feelings and opinions, which can lead to emotional sacrifices that place them last on their self-care lists. Celestite can help increase the ability to communicate emotions and lessen that burden, deepening relationships in the process.

Cancer: Red Jasper for Grounding

Cancerians should focus on getting in touch with their emotions—without letting them overcome them. Often characterized as emotional, Cancers can use red jasper to nurture the self-control it can take to manage their feelings. If you're overwhelmed with school or work?  Bertelsen recommends this keeping this stone nearby to keep temperamental Cancers cool, calm and collected in 2022.

Leo: Red Tiger’s Eye for Manifestation

Leo’s focus this year is seeking self-empowerment. Whether it's career- or relationship-based, this stone can help channel energies to reach Leo's personal goals. Knowing what you want and creating a roadmap to get there is red tiger's eye's frequency, and can strengthen Leo's resolve to up the ante this year.

Virgo: Lepidolite for Change

Virgos are known for stubbornness and sometimes have trouble with change. Lepidolite  can help with the decision-making necessary to make a personal shift. Rent or buy? Talk to the boss about a promotion or look for a new job? Bertelsen says this stone can help Virgos embrace change.

Libra: Lapis Lazuli for Decision-Making

Libras should focus on themselves this year—specifically in deciding what is best for them to lead a more fulfilled life. Lapis lazuli can channel clarity and focus, helping Libras take the critical next steps that can benefit them most.

Scorpio: Charoite for Revealing Truth

Scorpios, focus on building self-esteem this year. The charoite can help reveal spiritual insights and decrease insecurities. Feeling doubts about a partner or friend, or worrying about a business decision? Charoite can help Scorpios reevaluate their value and place in life so they can making confident decisions.

Sagittarius: Hematite for Grounding and Protection

Sagittarians should focus on peacefulness and friendships this year. Hematite is to ease the mind and strengthen relationships, Bertelsen says. Thinking about traveling but feeling anxious? Have hardships with friends or family? Hematite can help Sags ease worries and increase connection with others.

Capricorn: Malachite for Attracting Prosperity 

Capricorns should focus on abundance. Malachite is known for attracting prosperity and luck, leading to more opportunities both personally and professionally. (It is the color of money, after all!) Bertelsen points to this green stone to ease financial woes and help Capricorns succeed. This may be the year to approach the boss for that promotion.

Aquarius: Labradorite for Intellect

Aquarians should focus on learning new things this year. Labradorite is known to increase mental and intuitive abilities, feeding the sign's natural curiosity. Deeper conversation and idea development flow more with labradorite in hand, making 2022 a year of geeking out.

Pisces: Rainbow Fluorite for Focus

Pisces should focus on intuition and reducing distractions. Rainbow fluorite has the properties to help focus the mind and reorganize the chaos of life. Juggling multiple projects or responsibilities? Rainbow fluorite can help Pisces prioritize and plan.

Click here to attend a Crystals 101 class with Brooke Bertelsen at Elysian Fields on Tuesday, Jan. 25, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Price is $25 a person; for more information, call (941) 361-3006.