Quality crystals that are authentic are vitally important for creating an engaging experience. There are seven indicators of crystal quality: Clarity, Color, Formation, Finishing Inclusions Energy Source.

This beginner-friendly Crystal Buying Guide will assist you in shopping like an expert (without needing a geology degree!). Here you will learn how to distinguish high- and low-quality crystals!

Origin

Crystals have long held an allure that goes far beyond their physical beauty. People have used crystals in rituals to cleanse, heal and protect for centuries.

Microscopically, single crystals contain atoms arranged in an exact arrangement; polycrystals (such as table salt or glass) contain multiple microscopic crystals fused together; while amorphous solids lack any periodic structure.

Before WWII, research on crystal growth was mostly motivated by curiosity and conducted by various scientists such as physicists, chemists, metallurgists and mineralogists. After WWII however, due to semiconductor and optical device manufacturing requiring high quality single crystals for manufacture of these devices, crystal growth became its own field with societies and journals dedicated to this pursuit.

Clarity

Clarity of crystals determines their transparency and perceived value. Premium crystals feature clear surfaces that reflect light well; with few inclusions and less cloudiness. Lower-quality crystals often feature cloudy spots, thin lines or cracks as well as dyed or heat-treated finishes which render them lifeless and lifeless.

Clarity also affects vibration in crystals. Hold a high-grade crystal in your hand and notice how it tingles, deepens your breath, sharpens focus or amplifies intentions without static. Lower-grade crystals vibrate differently and may create energy blocks; make sure that any seller provides certifications of authenticity and avoid pieces that appear too perfect or suspiciously cheap.

Color

Crystals with vibrant, natural hues such as amethyst that glows are particularly valuable. Additionally, these stones possess crisp point terminations, symmetry, and an even polish. Natural inclusions add character; however too many fractures diminish its energy flow.

Some crystals are rare and limited in supply, such as moldavite (a green tektite meteorite found only at specific locations around the world) and high-grade Tanzanite. Their scarcity commands higher prices.

Cut

Cut of a crystal makes a significant impactful statement about its shine, vibrations and feel. Points with cleanly cut points with intact tips channel energy directly; uneven polishes or grinder burns dissipate it more slowly.

Long facets will add the perfect finishing touch to long, pencil-like stones such as emerald, tourmaline and aquamarine. Rectangular step cuts are also popular due to their weight-saving capabilities as well as accentuating pastel colors found in Morganite, Topaz and Kunzite gemstones.

Inclusions

Gem inclusions – those minerals or materials trapped inside stones during their formation – provide invaluable insights into each gemstone. Although sometimes mischaracterized as flaws, inclusions may actually provide more energy benefits!

Gemologists typically identify gemstones and their sources primarily based on their inclusions. Gemmologists distinguish between fluid inclusions and crystal inclusions; fluid inclusions tend to have more fluid features such as fluid inclusions that form feather-shaped feathers or needle-like crystals responsible for creating star and cat’s eye effects in some quartz gems and sunstone feldspars; while crystal inclusions usually form feather-shaped feathers which contribute tiger striping effects in amethyst, while needle crystal inclusions form needle-like crystals which give certain quartz gems and sunstone feldspars their character.

Energy

An individual crystal’s energy changes depending on its quality. Clearer pieces transmit clean energy while heavy fractures disperse it. Symmetry, point terminations and natural inclusions all play an integral part in reflecting stronger, more coherent fields.

Be wary of fake or artificially treated stones (glass/resin, neon hues and coatings) as these will dampen a stone’s natural vibration while leaving behind heavier energetic residue.