Quality crystals can make an important statement about who you are. Here’s how to recognize excellent-quality stones while avoiding ones with less desirable features.
Look for rich, natural colors (avoiding neon or ink-looking dye pools); good symmetry and consistent polish; as well as minimal damage. Ask the seller about its origin and any inclusions that might exist in their item.
1. Clarity
Clarity of crystals is an integral indicator of quality, impacting both its appearance and value. The Gemological Institute of America has developed a clarity grading system which ranks stones according to transparency and the presence of inclusions; those with less inclusions tend to be more desirable as they provide clearer views into its internal structures.
High-quality crystals feature expertly cut facets to ensure their symmetry and uniformity, which enhance the gemstone’s shine. While some highly valued crystals may feature near-perfection in terms of clarity, even slightly cloudy crystals can still possess an appealing aesthetic.
Crystals can help enhance mental clarity and focus, especially during meditation. Some of the best crystals for increasing focus include Lapis Lazuli, Rainbow Fluorite, and Amethyst; they can reduce distracting mental chatter and boost concentration to process information more effectively and make decisions faster. At your next meditation session try placing a piece of quality crystal either on your lap or under your pillow as an aid to staying calm and focused.
2. Color
Crystals come in various colors, each one having a different energetic signature. Some colors symbolize clarity, purification and amplified energy while others provide grounding, protection or emotional support.
Grading colored crystals requires taking both intensity and consistency into account. For instance, an amethyst point should display deep purple tones across its entire surface rather than patches of dull or lighter areas.
Color matters when it comes to adhesive-ready embellishments like rhinestones. Aim for clear polish without gummy residue or grinder burns and an even color that does not contain neon-looking dye pools.
Though diamonds have an established grading system, no such classification exists for crystals. Some suppliers may offer museum/collector-grade crystals with near perfect clarity and no inclusions that cost significantly more. Be wary of any too perfect crystal as this may be synthetic or heat treated material.
3. Cut
Crystals are amazing pieces of Earth that form through time, pressure and mineral-rich environments – no two are ever the same in appearance, shape and feel! This beginner-friendly guide covers how to spot quality in terms of clarity, color, formation and finish and how to shop like an expert (without needing a geology degree!).
Choose premium “anchors” to assist in daily healing rituals and energetic work. Spheres, Tibetan bowls and other shapes of crystal offer sleek designs for daily meditation or energetic work; select amethyst points as an anchor point in gridding around your home for added relaxation.
4. Energy
As you research crystals, pay special attention to how their inclusions influence their energy. Certain crystals have higher energetic levels than others and it might be worthwhile investing more in high-quality pieces that feature unique formations or inclusions (rutilated quartz is one example of such pieces).
Check a piece’s clarity under good lighting, taking note of any scratches or dull spots, as well as for bubbles that might suggest it is fake – air bubbles are commonly seen in synthetic glass products but not natural crystals.
At its core, determining whether a crystal is of high-quality can only be done through intuitive communication with its energy. A quality crystal should feel cool to the touch and induce positive, soothing feelings in you body. When in doubt, always look for certification and buy from trusted sellers with complete transparency so as to build your collection without being duped by unscrupulous dealers.