mineral (treated)
Aqua Aura Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) bonded with Gold (Au)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent bright blue/cyan; Luster: Vitreous to metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Iridescent bright blue/cyan
- Luster
- Vitreous to metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent bright blue/cyan; Luster: Vitreous to metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through a man-made process called 'vapor deposition' where natural quartz crystals are heated to 871°C in a vacuum and infused with vaporized 24k gold. The base quartz is typically millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for jewelry, lapidary art, and metaphysical/collection purposes. It is popular in the 'new age' crystal market.
Geological facts
Despite its neon blue appearance, the layer of gold bonded to the surface is only a few atoms thick. It was originally created as a byproduct of research into optical coatings for industrial use.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its unnatural electric-blue iridescence and hexagonal prism shape. Note that the color is only on the surface; if chipped, the interior is clear quartz. Common in gem shops but not found naturally in this color.
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