Good day, friends. On Earth, quartz stone is found more often than all other rocks. The group called “quartz” includes many formations that differ in structure and color. All of them are formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks and have their own characteristics and properties. Which semi-precious stone (that's right, quartz is not a precious mineral) is right for you, how much does it cost and how to distinguish the original from a fake and is it possible to do this from a photo? Interesting about quartz below.
A little about the history of the appearance of quartz stone
People have known for a long time that the planet is rich in quartz. Without thinking about whether it is a rock or a mineral, the stone has been actively used for many thousands of years, using it in everyday life, magical rituals and even in alternative medicine. Why is quartz called this way? Judging by literary sources, the choice of name was primarily influenced by the properties of the mineral.
Quartz is literally translated as “solid”. This is from German. The name is also interpreted as “ore of secant veins”, and if from the Saxon dialect, then “cross veins”. The ancient Slavs called the stone this way for its strength and hardness.
Nowadays, you can find any description for a schoolchild, which will remind you that in nature there are more than 21 types of minerals, many of which are poetically compared to eyes. The unusual optical effect of the crystal did not go unnoticed by archaeologists. Its properties continue to be actively studied and new deposits are sought.
How to distinguish from a fake
Despite the fact that there are plenty of places to mine quartz crystals, unscrupulous people still try to sell synthetic fakes to ignorant connoisseurs of beauty. They are very similar to the originals, but the forgery is revealed by air bubbles inside the stone in a chaotic disorder and cracks. Moreover, transparent crystals of greenish, bluish or bluish tints are not found under natural conditions. They can only be translucent. It is also necessary to pay attention to the size of the mineral. If it is large enough, then it is undoubtedly a crude fake.
True quartz of natural origin will become not only a decoration, but also a talisman for its owner.
What does a crystal look like and characteristics of the mineral?
As already mentioned, natural quartz can be of different colors, containing varying amounts of metal impurities and inclusions. Most often these are iron and aluminum compounds. On the Mohs scale, the mineral shows high results and is able to compete with diamond, corundum and topaz. Pure specimens found in nature are called rock crystal. Basic physical properties of the crystal:
- high level of thermal conductivity;
- stable low temperature (that’s why it’s called an icy stone);
- resistance to aggressive substances;
- increased viscosity;
- solubility to alkalis;
- considered a dielectric conductor;
- has a high melting point (up to 1700°C).
The rock is mined in different parts of the world. Elite jewelry stone suitable for products is not found so often; the mineral from the “ornamental” category predominates.
The most striking examples can be obtained in America, Brazil, the island of Madagascar and Australia. Unusual rose quartz is more often found in Ukraine and Karelia, black and smoky quartz can be found in abundance in the Urals, mountain quartz can most often be found in mountain settlements in the Caucasus, Siberia and the Carpathians, and Brazil, Uruguay and the island of Sri Lanka are famous for amethyst.
History and origin
Quartz is a unique creation of nature, which is the mother rock for the minerals of our planet. This nugget is found anywhere and everywhere, occupying 60% of the Earth's lithosphere. It is not surprising that all ancient nations knew about the existence of this stone, from the Western peoples of the Saxons and Celts, to the Indians and Japanese far in the East.
Of course, without modern chemical research, ancient people would not have been able to find out that most of the gems they found belonged to the quartz family. Therefore, any type of mineral was rightfully considered an independent stone. People considered quartz only to be colorless or pale-colored translucent nuggets. The mineral was highly valued by alchemists and magicians, who carefully studied the properties of each known variety.
Later, when science reached its highest stage of development, scientists discovered new valuable qualities of quartz. Having studied the physical properties of the mineral, people began to use the stone to create optical elements of technology, as well as as a generator of electromagnetic and sound waves in piezoelectric devices. Quartz is used for the manufacture of fire-resistant refractory materials and is used in the production of glass.
In the twentieth century, artificial production of quartz crystals became available to science. A new method of mineral synthesis made it possible to obtain a stone of the desired shape, size, and symmetry, which is very important when creating high-precision devices. Of course, synthetic stone has not bypassed the jewelry industry, because artificial cultivation of the mineral makes it possible to obtain shades that are not characteristic of a natural nugget.
Varieties of quartz and features of each
Quartz is represented by dozens of varieties, each of the samples differs not only in composition and shade, but also in properties and general energy.
- Black quartz - it is called morion. In appearance, it is an almost opaque or barely transparent mineral, visually resembling resin. In the jewelry world, it is used mainly after treatment at high temperatures with a color change to yellow or lemon. If you look at ancient pictures of rituals, you can see that morion occupied a special place in them.
- Rose quartz is a gentle stone for romantics. It shines beautifully in the sun, but tends to fade to colorlessness if not handled correctly. It is a derivative of rock crystal, has powerful magical and healing properties, helps overcome aggression and get rid of negativity, and teaches you to cope with increased emotionality.
- Green or mint quartz is called prase. In appearance, it is an almost opaque crystal with beautiful emerald shades. It is actively used in jewelry, helps get rid of fatigue, relieve stress and irritability.
- Milky white crystal (lunar) - known to release ozone during temperature changes, which helps cleanse the lungs. It is distinguished by its ability to retain heat for a long time, for which it is used in baths and steam rooms.
- Smoky crystal is called rauchtopaz. The stone has a bright brown, even cognac color with various tonal transitions, and is actively used in the jewelry world with different types of cuts. Contraindicated for sensitive and vulnerable people.
- Purple quartz (blue) - called amethyst, belongs to the group of semi-precious crystals. The mineral is sold at a low price mainly due to its wide distribution. Visually, the gem is in no way inferior to more expensive precious specimens; in addition, it is famous for its ability to treat female infertility and male potency.
- Rutile quartz is also known as silicon dioxide. What does a gold-bearing crystal look like? This is a stone with beautiful inclusions of red and gold. Of all the types listed above, it is considered the most expensive and exclusive. Used as a crystal for love spells with powerful magical properties, recommended for creative people as a source of inspiration.
Types and colors
A more or less pure mineral is transparent rock crystal. It looks like it's icy. Impurities give the stone external and internal characteristics. Depending on the composition, the structures are classified as cryptocrystalline quartz (chalcedony) and crystalline.
The following minerals are classified as chalcedony.
Agate
There are different shades, for example, black, red or blue. The colors alternate, forming layers. Depending on this, agate types are distinguished. In medieval Italy, the stone was considered a talisman of craftsmen. The largest product is a dish with a diameter of 75 cm, cut from a single nugget.
Perunit
Perunite is a blue mineral. Has a beautiful glass shine. As a rule, bevel cutting is used.
Smoky Quartz
Smoky quartz is a gray or brown gemstone, also called rauchtopaz. Defects usually occur at the base of the crystal. The color at the top becomes more intense. The color is obtained due to the admixture of aluminum.
cat's eye
Cat's eye - crimson, grayish. The name is derived from the optical effect - a narrow strip of light against the main background resembles the eye of an animal. Some other varieties also have this effect.
Milky quartz
Sugar (milky) quartz is snow-white or pinkish translucent crystals that have received color due to oxidation and irradiation from neighboring rocks. The inclusions resemble grains of snow or sugar.
Onyx
Onyx is brown with a white or black pattern, light with a pink or yellow pattern. The best examples are found on the Arabian Peninsula, India, and Brazil.
Hairy
Hairworm is a golden, green, black mineral. Inside there are inclusions - needles, “hairs”, which form the shade. These are impurities of rutile, goethite, actinolite and other rocks.
Aventurine
Aventurine - yellow, cognac. The shades appear due to the admixtures of mica and hematite. They also give a special sparkling tint, shimmering shine. The cracks are usually filled with iron.
The second group (crystalline) includes the following varieties of quartz:
- Morion is an opaque black resin gem. In the Urals it is called “gypsy” for its brilliance and fracture.
- Citrine is a typically opaque, lemon-colored mineral. There are iron impurities. Jewelers love the stone for its low cost and ease of processing.
- Prazem is green. The color is explained by impurities of actinolite, chlorite, and silicate. The mineral is translucent. The name is translated from Greek as “leek”.
- Amethyst - shades of purple, sometimes with a slight yellowness. The color is due to disturbances in the crystal lattice and iron content.
- Rainbow. As the name suggests, the stone comes in several colors. The effect is obtained due to internal cracks and refraction of rays.
- Unusual ones include cactus quartz . The admixture of goethite here gives pinkish or yellow tints. This is one of the most expensive jewelry varieties of stone.
Amethyst
Cactus Quartz
Morion
Prase
Rainbow
Citrine
The healing properties of the mineral: what you need to know
In alternative medicine, quartz of various types is given special attention for its ability to solve health problems of varying degrees of complexity. There are many recipes for using crystal. It is believed, for example, that so-called quartz water has a special effect on the body.
It’s not difficult to prepare it at home. To do this, the minerals are immersed in clean water and allowed to brew for 24 hours, after which they are filtered and used for external and internal use. It is believed that this water can heal the respiratory system, improve digestion and solve skin problems. Quartz water helps:
- get rid of acne;
- cure dermatitis;
- remove redness and swelling;
- have a rejuvenating effect;
- cure burns;
- speed up the healing process of deep wounds and cuts;
- relieve pain from bruises;
- speed up the healing of hematomas.
Quartz jewelry is suitable for general strengthening of the immune system and quick recovery from colds. In addition, the crystal has the property of strengthening the nervous system, especially for the white mineral that releases ozone substances. Thanks to it, you can forget about problems with the functioning of the lungs and bronchi.
Place of Birth
Quartz rock is found on all continents of the globe. Many countries mine various types of minerals. Development is carried out using a quarry method or manually. Quartz occurs in dolomites, limestones, and placer rocks. The location of the mineral can be different - mountains, plains, seashores, river deltas. Quartz monomineral sand is of great value for industry.
The following are famous for their large-scale deposits of valuable industrial and jewelry gems:
- Brazil.
- Ukraine.
- Kazakhstan.
- Uruguay.
- Mexico.
- Sri Lanka.
- Madagascar.
- USA.
There are several large quartzite mining zones scattered across Russia: Yakutia, the Urals, Chukotka, and the Caucasus. The mineral is found in the Moscow region, as well as in Priochye.
Magical properties: how quartz helps people
Since ancient times, magicians and priests have been looking for an ally in quartz and believed in its strength and energy. Quartz was used to make balls for predicting the future, lenses, and objects for ritual magic rites. During sacrificial sessions, magicians used the power of quartz balls, in which they sought answers to questions about the past and future, believing that the mystical stone contained a thousand-year history and was capable of opening doors to parallel worlds.
- This type of quartz, known as rock crystal, is especially trusted among magicians. A crystal ball makes a special impression on anyone, even someone experienced in magical actions, and even, according to some information, is capable of subordinating the will.
- Pink crystals are considered powerful magical stones that can change the life of anyone who gives them the opportunity. People believe that the pink mineral helps to learn self-control, eliminates negative energy and, most importantly, helps to find love and gain self-confidence. Owners of pink crystals are usually good allies, partners and mentors. They make excellent leaders, capable of achieving goals without disruption.
- Green stones have been used since ancient times to relieve stress and as sources of energy. Many believe in their ability to relieve fear and depression and give confidence in their own abilities.
- Magicians and psychics attribute the ability to raise the self-esteem of especially sensitive and introverted people to the smoky crystal. The mineral is able to calm and balance, gives self-confidence and promotes the development of hidden potential, allowing you to get rid of shyness and suspiciousness forever.
- The bright red natural stone quartz has been used since ancient times as a love spell. Priests and shamans performed rituals to attract love with red quartz, guaranteeing one hundred percent results. Today it is believed that the crystal helps to return a partner or find a soul mate. In addition, the crystal is credited with the ability to protect against the negative effects of black magicians and ill-wishers.
- It is recommended to wear a red crystal as a talisman, wanting to protect yourself from betrayal and deception. Many believe that the stone reliably stores true feelings, protecting true love. Such a talisman will be especially useful for creative people. In it they can find not only protection, but also inspiration.
- Interesting magical properties are attributed to white quartz. It is believed that the crystal helps a person get rid of bad thoughts and envy. In general, the mineral is distinguished by its ability to neutralize negative bursts of energy and protect the owner from the evil eye and ill-wishers.
Compatibility with zodiac signs
The stone suits all zodiac signs. There are peculiarities, but, in extreme cases, it acts neutrally. It is advisable to choose a color depending on the specific zodiac constellation:
- Aries is better off taking white quartz . The sign is active, persistent, but lacks insight and constancy. The mineral will help fix this.
- A green gem will suit calm, confident Taurus. It will lift your spirits and give you flexibility.
- It is advisable for Gemini to choose yellow or red . These people often come into contact with others, so they would benefit from protection from the evil eye.
- Amethyst is suitable for Cancers. The mineral will soften uncertainty and psychological stress. There is no need to combine it with other gems.
- Pink is favorable for Leos. The stone helps them express themselves more fully and implement creative plans.
- Virgos need to pay attention to sugar . This variety protects from unnecessary thoughts, especially unpleasant ones.
- Cactus quartz is recommended for Libra . Harmony and love are especially important for these people. The stone will suggest the right solutions in conflict situations.
- For Scorpios, hairy beans are suitable, preferably with an admixture of rutile . It complements natural insight. It becomes easier for Scorpios to implement ideas.
- Sagittarians are advised to wear red and pink . The stone protects against rash actions and makes representatives of the sign more diplomatic.
- Capricorns need smoky quartz. It helps overcome isolation. In communication, Capricorns gain additional strength and become more cheerful.
- It is advisable for extraordinary Aquarius to take golden . The stone develops talents and helps bring “inventions” to other people.
- Blue will suit dreamy Pisces. The gem protects from unnecessary mental trauma and helps to develop spiritually.
Some types of stone patronize several signs. For example, green, in addition to Taurus, can be worn by Libra and Aquarius. White quartz (crystal) is also suitable for Leos, Pisces and Scorpios.
What are talismans and amulets?
Most talismans and amulets with different types of quartz are cut into silver, this is noticeable even from the photo of jewelry with quartz. This metal in combination with a crystal can work wonders and contribute to the appearance of:
- Good luck;
- material independence;
- financial stability, etc.
Products acting as amulets solve the most complex problems, protecting the personal lives of owners from betrayal, preventing betrayal, promoting the development of sexuality, and also helping to reveal speech abilities, develop memory and imagination, and activate the functioning of the brain as a whole.
Physical properties
The chemical basis of quartz is silicon oxide. However, the portion of pure mineral in the earth's interior is only 12%. The remaining nuggets contain impurities that cause a variety of shades. Quartz allows light to pass through, but there are a number of opaque varieties of this mineral. In terms of hardness, quartz is second only to Diamond or Corundum.
| Property | Description |
| Formula | SiO2 |
| Density | 2.6—2.65 g/cm³ |
| Refractive index | 1,544 |
| Hardness | 7 |
| singonia | Trigonal. |
| Kink | Conchoidal. |
| Cleavage | Imperfect. |
| Shine | Glass in solid masses is sometimes greasy. |
| Transparency | Transparent or opaque. |
| Color | Colorless, pink, white, purple, gray, yellow, brown and black. |
Original or artificial quartz: what are the differences?
Despite the almost complete visual identity of a good copy of a crystal and the original, the first will not have a number of magical and healing properties that the buyer expects. That is why it is so important to know what a brief description of a particular type of quartz should be and, most importantly, by what external signs it can be distinguished from a fake.
So, a natural crystal is characterized by hardness and glassy luster. If you run a sharp object across the surface of the stone, there should be no damage left on it. In addition, the natural mineral has adhesions directed in different directions. But frozen air bubbles and a perfectly uniform shade most likely indicate a fake. Usually they try to replace natural minerals with painted glass and even plastic.
Who is it suitable for?
Almost everyone. You just need to choose from the whole variety of types the one (or those) that suit you personally - by date and hour of birth, by character, by “personal preference”.
On the website you can read about many varieties - ametrine and amethyst, citrine and rauchtopaz, chalcedony, onyx, carnelian, heliotrope...
Zodiac signs
Let's look at the specific type. Rose quartz is for Scorpio in the 2nd decade.
Hairy - for Aquarius of the 2nd decade.
Rauchtopaz for Taurus of the 2nd decade. Well suited for Capricorn, but absolutely contraindicated for Cancer.
Want to know exactly the type of quartz for you? You will have to become a researcher and familiarize yourself with data on specific species (and there are a lot of them). The work ahead will be interesting, not difficult, but it will take some time.
