For many Chinese Malaysian households, the Hungry Ghost Festival is a time of heightened awareness, burning incense and joss paper, offering food, and generally being a little more mindful about which hours you're out and about. It's also, traditionally, a season when people turn to protective stones a little more deliberately.
Here's what's commonly reached for during this period, and why.
Black Obsidian
Formed from rapidly cooled volcanic glass, obsidian has one of the longest histories as a protective stone across cultures, believed to absorb and block negative or unwanted energy. Often the first recommendation for anyone feeling uneasy during this period.
Black Tourmaline
Similarly associated with grounding and psychic protection, frequently placed near entrances or carried when travelling at night.
Citrine
While primarily known as a prosperity stone, citrine's bright, self-cleansing energy is also associated with keeping a space feeling light and positive.
Red items generally
Beyond specific stones, red-toned pieces (red agate, cinnabar, red string bracelets) carry long-standing associations with protection and warding off misfortune across Chinese tradition, which is why you'll see a spike in interest in these during the 7th month specifically.
Whether or not these traditions are part of your own practice, there's no harm in a little extra grounding during a season that asks a lot of everyone. Browse our full protection and Feng Shui collection.