Quartz

Published: June 16, 2009

Types: Quartz refers to a group of minerals that includes rock crystal, amethyst, citrine, tiger eye, and chalcedony, among others. Tourmalated and rutilated quartz have dark or golden needle-like inclusions.

History: In ancient times, Romans carried quartz crystal balls to cool their hands in warm weather. Since the Middle Ages, quartz crystal balls have been used to predict the future. Rock-crystal quartz is believed to detoxify the mind and body, amplify energies, and enhance properties of other gemstones.

Origins: Quartz is found throughout the world, but major sources include Madagascar, Namibia, Brazil, the United States, and Ontario, Canada. The French and Swiss Alps contain particularly large crystals.

Treatments: Rose quartz is often dyed to create a uniform color. Smoky quartz is a heat-treated rock quartz. Some "quartz" (Such as blueberry or cherry) is actually glass combined with a coloring agent.

Availability: Quartz beads are widely available, but glass substitutes are a cheaper option. The two look similar, but quartz is harder and does not have the tiny air bubbles that glass does.

Care: Some quartz can fracture or lose its color when exposed to high heat, so clean it with warm, soapy water.