mineral
Aura Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with metallic vapor coating
Hardness: 7 Mohs scale; Color: Iridescent blue, purple, and gold; Luster: Vitreous/metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs scale
- Color
- Iridescent blue, purple, and gold
- Luster
- Vitreous/metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs scale; Color: Iridescent blue, purple, and gold; Luster: Vitreous/metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through a human-industrial process called vapor deposition; natural quartz crystals are heated in a vacuum and bonded with vaporized precious metals like titanium, gold, or cobalt.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative purposes, jewelry (pendants and rings), and in metaphysical or holistic practices.
Geological facts
While the base is natural quartz, the iridescent sheen is created by a thin layer of metal atoms. Different metals produce different colors: 'Titanium Aura' (blue/multi) or 'Aqua Aura' (bright turquoise).
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for natural crystal growth patterns beneath an unnaturally vibrant, metallic oily-slick surface. Common in new age shops and mineral shows rather than geological field sites.
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