Let’s be honest—growing up, whenever we encountered a mushroom in a storybook, it was often linked to fairy tales, whimsical adventures, or cute Disney animals. As a child, I was always drawn to them, letting my imagination soar with stories of fairies and enchanted forests. I clearly remember, back in the 1980s, there was a giant red mushroom with white spots near Greerton in Tauranga. As far as I recall, it was actually a veggie stand, but all I wanted to do was stop there, imagining a magical world inside its cap. Of course, my parents never quite understood my fascination, but at least it encouraged me to get my "five-plus-a-day" long before that phrase became a common saying! Even as an adult, I still feel that little thrill when I spot a mushroom or some fungi in the garden. They seem to appear one day and vanish the next, always nestled near damp, mossy spots—no wonder they feel so enchanting!

Given our childhood connection to the whimsy of fairy tales and enchantment, it’s easy to see why crystals and mushrooms make such a perfect pairing. That’s why owning a crystal carved into the shape of a mushroom feels like the ultimate win-win!

Fast forward to adulthood, and we’ve been bombarded with mushroom products of all kinds, from various varieties to health benefits—not to mention mushroom coffee. Honestly, I would not have imagined this 20 years ago, but I’m eager to try it! There have even been a couple of fascinating documentaries on Netflix, not just about the health benefits of mushrooms, but also their role in supporting the biodiversity of our planet. These new perspectives have truly shown us just how amazing mushrooms can be.

Having a crystal carved into a mushroom shape can be particularly meaningful, both energetically and symbolically. Mushrooms are often associated with growth, transformation, and a deeper connection to nature. Transformation and Renewal. Mushrooms are known for their regenerative qualities in nature, breaking down organic material to help new life flourish. Crystals carved into mushrooms can symbolize personal growth, renewal, and the ability to transform challenges into opportunities.

The mushroom shape itself is said to symbolize grounding and stability. It’s a simple but powerful symbol of spiritual connection to the Earth and the natural world, standing for protection and harmony. Not to mention, if you're a fan of crystals and mushrooms like myself, having them around brings a sense of playfulness and whimsical joy. Even better, a crystal carved into the shape of a mushroom means it will last forever.

One of my favourite mushrooms in my personal crystal collection is a carnelian mushroom. I was drawn to it because of its intense, fiery oranges. I loved it so much that I would carry it around in my pocket, like a little tactile worry stone always within reach. Another 'Crystal mushroom thing' I’ve discovered is that Crystal Mushrooms are an excellent massage tool.

Crystal mushrooms can make excellent massage tools due to their unique shape. The mushroom form naturally fits into the hand, providing a comfortable grip and allowing for controlled pressure during a massage. The rounded top and sturdy stem are perfect for targeting specific areas of tension, making it easier to apply gentle pressure to muscles and pressure points. But before you grab your crystal mushroom for a massage, be sure to check its material and consult the Mohs hardness scale. If your crystal mushroom is made from a soft material, it may not hold up well and could damage the carved stone. As a general rule, I recommend ensuring your crystal has a hardness of at least 6 or higher. Jaspers, basalt, and agates are safe bets. Anything under a hardness of 6, like calcite, would be too soft for this purpose. For massage, ideally, you would want to also not go for crystals with a druzy cavity as that could be scratchy.

In my years of reconnecting with crystals, I’ve discovered that people actually collect them as well, which has made crystal mushrooms even more popular. The lapidary industry is starting to recognize this as a real trend. Recently, we received a batch of Ocean Spray Jasper mushrooms from Madagascar, and I can tell you, not a single one is exactly the same. I suppose they are like real mushrooms in nature—each one is unique, which makes them even more enchanting.

Whether you’re drawn to them for their beauty, their symbolism, or their energy, crystal mushrooms are a timeless addition to any collection. They truly bring a touch of magic into our everyday lives.