mineral
Aura Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Titanium/Metal vapor coating
Hardness 7 (Mohs), metallic iridescent luster (dichroic), trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, range of colors including gold, blue, and purple.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 (Mohs), metallic iridescent luster (dichroic), trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, range of colors including gold, blue, and purple.
Formation & geological history
Natural clear quartz is typically formed in igneous or hydrothermal environments. This specific specimen has been through a human-led process called CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) where metal vapors are bonded to the surface in a vacuum.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative purposes, crystal healing, metaphysical practices, and as collector specimens.
Geological facts
The iridescent sheen is created by bonding ultra-thin layers of metal (like Titanium, Gold, or Platinum) to the crystal; it is not a natural color of the quartz itself.
Field identification & locations
Look for natural quartz crystal growth patterns (striations) beneath a synthetic, rainbow-like metallic film. It is found in specialty shops rather than in the field due to the artificial coating.
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Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
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