Are crystals alive? Were the great pyramids of ancient Egypt capped with giant crystals? Do crystals repel fleas and other pests? Can crystals record thoughts and heal human ills? Crystals - the ubiquitous symbol and tool of trade for the growing New Age movement - have had many powers attributed to them, ranging from the physical (improving gas mileage) to the psychic (increasing ESP powers and channeling). This book critically examines the claims of crystal power from a variety of viewpoints: historical, scientific, theoretical and experimental. The book explores the history of crystal use in witchcraft, shamanism and mysticism and the many uses of natural and manufactured crystals in technology.