mineral
Aura Quartz (Titanium-coated Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with metallic vapor coating
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear with iridescent, rainbow-like metallic sheen; Luster: Vitreous/Metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Clear with iridescent, rainbow-like metallic sheen
- Luster
- Vitreous/Metallic
Identified More mineral →
Explore Aura Quartz (Titanium-coated Quartz) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Clear with iridescent, rainbow-like metallic sheen; Luster: Vitreous/Metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None.
Formation & geological history
Natural quartz crystals or tumbled stones are placed in a vacuum chamber and heated to high temperatures. Metallic vapors (such as titanium, gold, or silver) are introduced and bond to the surface through an electrostatic process.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry, metaphysical practices, home decor, and by crystal collectors for aesthetic value.
Geological facts
Aura Quartz is a man-made enhancement of a natural mineral. While the base is 100% natural quartz, the rainbow surface is a result of modern chemical vapor deposition technology.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the distinct holographic or rainbow oil-slick sheen on the surface which does not rub off easily. In the field, look for normal quartz and note that the 'aura' effect only occurs in a laboratory setting.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock