Material: Stupa. Gold plated. Crystal. A set of eight Stupas

Size: 20 cm (approximate size)

Narrative:

Crystal is a naturally occurring mineral composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and is widely loved for its transparent or translucent properties. It is hard, usually crystal clear, and is formed during geological processes, either by the cooling of volcanic magma or by the movement of the earth's crust. There are many types of crystals, including white crystal, amethyst, citrine, etc. Each crystal has different symbolic meanings due to its unique color and energy properties.

**Origins in Buddhism**

Crystal has profound religious significance in Buddhism, especially white crystal, which is listed as one of the seven treasures of Buddhism and symbolizes purity, wisdom and compassion. Here are some important connections between crystals and Buddhism:

1. **Material of Buddhist beads**

Crystals are often used to make Buddhist beads to help practitioners concentrate when chanting Buddhist names or scriptures. White crystal beads are believed to purify the body and mind and enhance spirituality due to their pure properties.

2. **Offering and Praying**

In Buddhist temples, crystals are often used as offerings to symbolize respect for the Buddha. The transparency of white crystal is regarded as a symbol of wisdom and can help believers achieve inner peace.

3. **Energy and Healing**

Crystals are believed to have the ability to amplify energy, helping practitioners purify negative energy and promote harmony between body and mind. Amethyst, because of its noble color, is regarded as a symbol of wisdom and spirituality.

Crystal is not only a naturally formed mineral, but also a spiritual symbol that carries the Buddhist pursuit of wisdom and compassion.

The origin and worship methods of stupas are deeply rooted in the history and culture of Buddhism. They are one of the common buildings in Buddhist temples, mainly used to store the relics of Buddha or monks.

**origin**

The origin of the stupa can be traced back to the event of "Eight Kings Dividing the Relics" after the Buddha's Nirvana. The Buddha's relics were divided among eight tribes, and each tribe built a pagoda to enshrine the relics. These pagodas became centers of worship and offerings for Buddhists, and gradually evolved into the form of stupas. King Ashoka of the Maurya Empire in India built 84,000 stupas, expanding the influence of Buddhism throughout South Asia.

**Ways of offering**

1. **Offering of relics**

The stupa usually contains the relics of the Buddha or great monks, which are believed to have special spiritual powers. Worshipers will place offerings such as incense, flowers, lamps, food, etc. in the pagoda to express their respect.

2. Religious ceremonies

The stupa is often used as the center of Buddhist ceremonies. Believers will worship, chant scriptures and pray in front of the stupa, praying for wisdom, peace and liberation.

3. Symbolism

The structure of a stupa usually includes the base, body, and top, and each part has its symbolic meaning. For example, the "pagoda" on the top of the pagoda symbolizes the loftiness and eternity of Buddhism.

The stupa is not only a religious building, but also a spiritual symbol that reminds people to pursue wisdom and compassion.