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They're two different effects and I use Crystal when working but I don't use oddball.

Neither are fully examinable for different reasons but I've never been asked by a spec to examine the props.

They're two very different effects. Crystal Vision can be done one-to-one and is basically a close-up trick. Oddball needs four or five participants and can become a full stage presentation, as demonstrated by Derren Brown. Oddball also has no angle problems, whereas Crystal Vision can't be done if you're surrounded.

I like the tip about holding the bag fairly high. I would have suggested also simply asking them to close their eyes before reaching in -- after all, the choice is supposed to be random.

It's their sense of touch I'm more concerned with. If you shake the bag a bit and then tip it so the crystals are all in the "opposite" corner (if you know what I mean), this looks quite natural and they can rummage around in that corner, and all is well. There's only three crystals, so they're not going to rummage for all that long.

The snag is that you then have to get the remaining crystals in the right position, and this is where I was having trouble with them catching on the bag. I've found another light shake helps. This might combine well with holding the bag high, as you could shake it a bit while bringing it down.

Funnily enough, I have trouble distinguishing the "amber" from the "amethyst". Having them different shapes is a big help.

EDIT: Oooh, this is my 666th post! Spooky.

If you like Crystal Vision, you will absolutely LOVE the DELUXE "Stones Of Divinity".

All good wishes.

Mike Danata

I have recently purchased Stones of Divinity it's great.

I'll have to look that one up on Mike's website. Thanks for the tip.