The fascinating world of crystalline varieties of quartz

Quartz, one of the most common minerals on Earth, offers an incredible variety of colors, textures and uses. Crystalline varieties of quartz are particularly popular due to their aesthetics, optical properties and energetic effects. In this article, we will look at the nine most famous types, their origin, properties and use in jewelry and history.

1. Crystal – clear and colorless

Formation : Crystal is formed by the crystallization of silica in volcanic rocks or metamorphic environments.
Features :

  • Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
  • Optical properties: Perfectly clear, with iridescent effects due to inclusions.
    History : Considered the petrified ice of the gods. Ancient civilizations wore it as a talisman.
    Uses : Clear rings, beads, necklaces, energy crystals.

2. Amethyst - purple in various shades

Formation : The purple color is caused by iron ions and radiation. It crystallizes in geodes.
Features :

  • Purple shades from lavender to magenta.
  • Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale.
  • It energetically supports calmness and meditation.
    History : In ancient Greece, it symbolized protection against drunkenness.
    Use : Luxury necklaces, rings with brilliant cut.

3. Citrine – yellow, golden to brown

Formation : Natural citrine is rare and is often formed by heating amethyst.
Features :

  • Color: Golden hues due to the iron content.
  • Hardness: 7 na Mohs scale.
    History : Symbol of wealth and prosperity. Often referred to as the "sunstone".
    Uses : Amulets, earrings and luxury bracelets.

4. Dark brown - smoky to dark brown

Origin : Its color is the result of radioactive radiation in minerals rich in aluminum.
Features :

  • Density: 2.65 g/cm³.
  • Hardness: 7 na Mohs scale.
  • Optical phenomenon: Fine transparent smoky appearance.
    History : A symbol of protection in Celtic culture.
    Use : Rings and pendants in combination with metal.

5. Morion - almost black

Occurrence : A variant of a sunburn exposed to more intense radioactive radiation.
Features :

  • Optically almost opaque.
  • Hardness: 7 na Mohs scale.
  • Energetically, it symbolizes protection against negative influences.
    History : Used in magic and protective amulets.
    Uses : Jewelry with dramatic contrast.

6. Rosewood – pink with a soft opalescence

Formation : The color is caused by traces of manganese and titanium.
Features :

  • Soft pink tones, often opalescent.
  • Hardness: 7 na Mohs scale.
  • It symbolizes love and compassion.
    History : Ancient civilizations wore it as a love amulet.
    Use : Necklaces, bracelets and rings with gold details.

7. Aventurine – green or brownish-red

Formation : The content of fine flakes of mica or hematite creates a glittering effect.
Features :

  • The green color is the most common, but there are also red variants.
  • Hardness: 7 na Mohs scale.
  • A symbol of luck and courage.
    History : In ancient Tibet, it was dedicated to the protection of travelers.
    Use : Pendants and solid rings.

8. Blue quartz - soft blue, rare

Formation : The color is caused by microscopic inclusions.
Features :

  • Soft gray-blue color.
  • Hardness: 7 na Mohs scale.
  • It symbolizes peace and balance.
    History : Valued as a stone of communication.
    Uses : Rare jewelry and decorative items.

9. Praseolite – light green

Occurrence : Naturally rare, often formed by heating amethyst.
Features :

  • Soft green color, translucent.
  • Hardness 7 on Mohs scale.
    History : A modern discovery, popular for its uniqueness.
    Use : Elegant rings and delicate earrings.

Crystalline varieties of quartz offer an inexhaustible source of inspiration, history and beauty. Each stone tells its own unique story – from its formation to its artistic processing in jewelry.

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