mineral

Aura Quartz

Titanium or Gold bonded Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear with iridescent rainbow sheen; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Clear with iridescent rainbow sheen
Luster: Vitreous

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear with iridescent rainbow sheen; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal

Formation & geological history

The base is natural quartz formed through geothermal processes; the iridescence is man-made via vapor deposition of precious metals (titanium, gold, or silver) in a vacuum chamber.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, crystal collecting, metaphysical practices, and wire-wrapped jewelry.

Geological facts

While the quartz base is millions of years old, the 'Aura' effect is a modern laboratory enhancement that bonds metallic atoms to the surface of the crystal.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the presence of a rainbow-like coating on a clear quartz crystal that won't rub off easily. It is not found this way in nature; these are always commercially enhanced pieces.

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