Holly Golightly long extolled the transformative effects of Tiffany's, with a glittering philosophy that the key to a happy life lies in being surrounded by jewels.
For some, this theory may seem sybaritic, to say the least, but it cannot be denied that the holistic benefits of crystal therapy are huge, whether for soothing anxiety, rebalancing energy or ironing out cosmetic ailments. And if you really want to amplify their magic, there are certain places – and practitioners – that will send a thrill down the spine of even the most jaded traveller.
The Neelam Suite at the Johri in Jaipur; Claridge's Spa
Take Jaipur, the heartbeat of the world's gemstone industry, a marvel of artistic creativity and precious and semi-precious stones alike, all so raw and real. For a fantasy version of the Pink City, nothing beats the Johri hotel, co-owned by Jaipur's most social jeweller, Siddharth Kasliwal.
Housed in a 19th-century merchant's haveli, the five suites are named after jewels – as you would expect from a hotelier whose family owns the illustrious Gem Palace. This store remains the most impressive emporium for rare emeralds, diamonds and tourmalines – and just you wait until you see the collection of antique tiaras.
But before you make an heirloom purchase, to really understand the power of the right rock (and cut), you need to meet Dr Chauhan, a gem doctor to whom travel specialist India Beat regularly takes its clients. He examines your aura and birth chart, then performs his reading.
It's so enlightening, not just for Dr Chauhan's insights and encyclopaedic knowledge, but also for his advice on where to place crystals and, indeed, what specific crystals you need in your life – and it really does deliver a spiritual and physical oomph. The only downside? Many engagement rings have been discarded due to his advice.
Six Senses Fort Barwara
If you're looking to further reap the restorative effects of Rajasthan, something special seems to happen at the Six Senses Fort Barwara. Head three hours outside of Jaipur to this palatial abode that excels in Ayurvedic treatments, alongside biohacking and a memorable tiger's-eye treatment that combines visualisation, breathwork and massage. This shiny striped gemstone is said to aid the release of fear and anxiety – and not only does the treatment help stubborn control freaks learn to 'let go' but, on a more superficial level, the massage also does wonders for your skin.
Meanwhile, in California, Golden Door – truly one of the world's best – is much more than a spa; it's a dreamscape of a ryokan-inspired inn, with unparalleled healing offerings. From the moment you step through its eponymous golden door, studded with lapis lazuli, rose quartz and amethyst, you sense quasi-magical forces at work. It's a completely holistic approach, combining meditation, Pilates, deep-tissue massage and an abundance of fabulous organic food.
Not to be missed is sound healing with Nancy Paik, a yoga instructor and crystal enthusiast whose ritual involves chanting, and absorbing the benefits of selenite and fluorite crystals. But above all, a session with psychotherapist and healing practitioner Danielle Hering is nothing short of transformational. Through the power of breathwork, you're lulled into a coma-like state while she strikes crystal singing bowls above you – it's extraordinary how profoundly revitalised you feel afterwards.
The Golden Door resort in southern California
Thankfully, closer to home, in the underground Aman Spa at The Connaught in London, you can experience a proper crystal-induced recharge with lasting effects as well. Decked out with copious amounts of black granite, it's a glamorous and quietly powerful place, where you can indulge in grounding rituals involving warm rose-quartz crystals from Aman's own line – and even a reiki specialist, Bernice Robinson, who, if you don't already, will make you believe in the power of crystals.
Not to be outdone is The Connaught's sister property, Claridge's, which is unveiling a pink onyx crystal bed in its spa, where the most indulgent hammam takes place. As you lie down, imbibing the positive energy of the onyx, you're doused in rose water and frothed up with charcoal soap, followed by a rosehip-infused pink-clay mask, which delivers such a spiritual high (and megawatt glow), you will use the term "divine" in a whole new way. Indeed, it's crystal clear that this is healing at its haute-est.
This article was originally published on The Week