Crystals are gorgeous pieces to have in any collection, yet also possess powerful metaphysical properties. As such, it’s crucial that you select only those which will enhance it the most.

Preciosa factory’s (formerly Swarovski factories) LUX European Crystal products are our go-to selection for sparkling projects of any kind, as their multifaceted sparkle add a shine that lasts. Available in an array of colors for maximum versatility!

1. Optical purity

Crystals with superior qualities possess minimal distortions in how light passes through them, are clear and brightly colored, and feature near flawless structures – especially gem cut crystals shaped specifically to become decorative items for jewelry or metaphysical use.

Attaining this goal can be challenging for KTP family crystals due to their incongruent decomposition below their melting points, and sublimation growing methods typically take place at high temperatures which often results in twinned and statically disordered crystals.

These sellers go to great lengths to ensure their crystals are of the highest optical purity, including tracking each stone back to its source and providing fair mining conditions. Browse their extensive inventory and find something perfect for you!

2. Faceting

Gemstone-grade stones stand out in the crystal world by their exquisite clarity and breathtaking color saturation. While jewelry diamonds are graded using the famed 4Cs system, gemstone-grade precious stones must first be assessed by hand to be considered high quality; only when these standards of clarity and beauty have been fulfilled can they be considered high grade gems.

Points on faceted gems must meet perfectly to form the HAI triangle for proper light refraction; this allows it to reflect both internal and external lighting equally well, giving an elegantly cut crystal its beautiful shine.

An easy way to tell crystal apart from glass is to hold it in your hand and compare its thickness. A crystal item will feel much heavier than its glass equivalent and create a musical ring when touched, further distinguishing them.

3. Polish

If a crystal has deep scratches, you can polish them using mild sandpaper or Brasso. A gentle touch will reduce their visibility; for optimal results you may need to repeat coarse sandpapering multiple times for optimal results. Be sure to wear a dust mask and goggles to avoid breathing in dust particles!

Vinegar can be an effective home solution to remove blemishes on smooth-type crystals. Soak stones in full strength vinegar for 8-12 hours to remove any staining caused by lime carbonates, calcite or barite deposits.

Are you in search of stones that will bring positivity and peace? Try Spirit Nectar from Washington-based Etsy seller’s mindfully sourced crystal spheres and rock bundles sourced responsibly by this Washington seller on Etsy. Additionally, find mystical statuary like feather smudgers made from driftwood and ocean jasper as well as feather smudgeers crafted by her young woman owner, which are carefully evaluated for quality and ecological impact before being offered on sale.

4. Size

Tumbled stones can often be judged based on size. Larger crystals often score higher in quality grading tests; to qualify as an “A”, however, it must be flawless or nearly so.

This colorless jacare quartz decorator cluster is a collector-quality piece, boasting an attractive light smoky brown natural hue with rainbow reflections near its tip. See both full view and close-up images for your viewing pleasure.

With two locations on Long Island and an online shop, this family-run wellness store carries an outstanding selection of both new and vintage crystals. They include gemstone wands for massage, crystal towers to amplify energy and starter sets featuring white sage smudge sticks with quartz and selenite; as well as geode bookends and kid-friendly magnetic hematite that are ready-to-wrap gifts!

5. Color

Crystal enthusiasts turn to crystals for both their metaphysical healing properties and aesthetic beauty. Crystal enthusiasts typically recommend cleansing these stones first to remove negative energy and any doubt or uncertainty before beginning use, although each individual must ultimately decide for themselves whether these gemstones work for them or not.

House of Intuition is well-known for offering premium raw crystals from around the world. Their team works directly with mines to source these minerals for you – they offer everything from geode bookends and magnetic hematite magnets for kids’ use to bundles including all five basic crystal types plus one white sage smudge stick for cleansing purposes!

Established by two sisters, this Black woman-owned shop sells both raw and tumbled crystals. Carefully selected starter sets help manifest your intention such as love or abundance. In addition, eight guidelines have been set forth regarding their sourcing practices such as tracking all stones back to their origins while maintaining a list of problematic regions to which customers should not purchase from.