Questions answered

A deck in the Rider-Waite-Smith tradition is the usual starting point, because most books and guides, including our Tarot Room, use its imagery and meanings.

A standard tarot deck has 78 cards: 22 major arcana and 56 minor arcana in four suits.

That is folklore, not a rule. Many readers buy their own first deck.

Tarot follows a fixed 78-card structure. Oracle decks have no fixed structure; each deck sets its own cards and meanings in its guidebook.

Most do. Check the product page for what is included in each deck.

No two natural crystals are identical. Expect variation in colour, size and inclusions.

Prolonged strong sunlight can fade amethyst, so keep it out of direct sun.

We do not make health claims. Crystals are traditionally used for reflection and decoration.

It depends on the stick; the product page lists burn time where the supplier provides it.

Use a heat-proof holder, ventilate the room and never leave burning incense unattended.

Colour meanings are traditional associations, which vary between practices. White is commonly linked with beginnings and clarity.

Many practitioners use the new moon for intentions and the full moon for gratitude. Check tonight's phase in the Moon Room.

Hold the bowl on a flat palm or cushion, strike it gently, then run the mallet around the rim with steady pressure.

Check each product page; included accessories are listed there.

Light the end, gently blow out the flame, and let the smoke drift while holding a heat-proof dish underneath. Extinguish fully after use.

Ventilate the room, keep away from smoke alarms, children and pets, and never leave it smouldering unattended.

A cloth, a candle on a safe holder, and one or two objects that mean something to you is enough.