mineral

Aura Quartz

Titanium-coated Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Iridescent blue, green, and yellow (bi-color); Luster: Vitreous to metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs)
Color: Iridescent blue, green, and yellow (bi-color)
Luster: Vitreous to metallic

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Iridescent blue, green, and yellow (bi-color); Luster: Vitreous to metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.

Formation & geological history

Formed through a human-enhanced process called chemical vapor deposition. Natural clear quartz crystals are placed in a vacuum chamber and heated, where vaporized metal oxides (such as titanium or gold) are bonded to the surface at a molecular level.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, jewelry, and in the metaphysical/spiritual crystal community for its aesthetic and perceived energetic properties.

Geological facts

While the base material is a natural millions-of-years-old quartz crystal, the rainbow iridescent finish is man-made. The bond is permanent and cannot be rubbed or scraped off, but can be damaged by strong acids or abrasives.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for natural quartz crystal shapes (hexagonal prisms) combined with an unnatural, oil-slick-like metallic iridescence. It is not found in nature in this specific iridescent state; look for it in gem and mineral shops.