The use of pendulums as a metaphysical tool is very ancient. It was as important to the apothecaries of yore as a stethoscope is today. Pendulums would be made from a wide variety of materials, with gemstones being revered as among the most suitable. From dowsing for water, to diagnosing the source of an ailment, to psychics contacting higher realms, pendulums have allowed access to powers that are not easily accessed through other means. In the middle ages, midwives would douse over a pregnant belly to help determine the gender of an unborn child. Pendulums are a great way to get answers to questions. You don't have to be a psychic to get an answer - you only need a steady hand to hold the pendulum and a question to focus on.