Hi,
I think it is a wonderful idea to give crystals. I don't know where or who told you not to, or where they got that idea from, as far as I am concerned they are crazy. But perhaps they are a vedic gemologist and not a crystal healer? The two are very different.
There is no need to do anything to the crystal, nothing at all, the crystal as a gift will do everything themself. Many people have crystals in their homes and never give them a second thought, jewellery, carvings, ashtray, paper wights or even doostops and stone fireplaces and floors. SO go and choose and be happy they will love it
