mineral
Aqua Aura Quartz
Titanium/Gold-coated Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent bright blue with rainbows; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Iridescent bright blue with rainbows
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent bright blue with rainbows; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through a man-made process called vapor deposition where natural clear quartz is heated in a vacuum and infused with vaporized gold and other metals. The base quartz is typically hundreds of millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative purposes, metaphysical collecting, and costume jewelry. It has no industrial applications due to the artificial coating.
Geological facts
The iridescent sheen is caused by the 'Tyndall effect,' where the thin metallic layer scatters light. Though it looks magical, this specific vibrant blue color does not occur naturally in quartz crystals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its intense, non-natural neon blue color and metallic rainbow surface sheen. Unlike natural crystals, the color is only on the surface and can sometimes be scratched off. Common in metaphysical shops.
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