Rock crystal is the colourless, clear form of quartz. It is a natural stone made of silicon and oxygen that forms deep in the earth. Rock crystal is hard, as transparent as glass and catches the light beautifully. That is why you often see it in jewellery, from raw pieces to smoothly polished beads.
Where does the name rock crystal come from?
The word crystal comes from ancient Greek. There, krystallos meant something like ice. According to tradition, the ancient Greeks believed rock crystal was ice that would never melt again.
The word rock is there for a reason too. People often found the stone high up in the mountains, for example in the Alps. There, the crystals grow in cavities and cracks in the rock.
Limited Alpe Bracelet Mountain Crystal
Where do you find rock crystal today?
Rock crystal is found in many places around the world. Large deposits are located in Brazil and Madagascar, among others. Collectors still find beautiful crystals in the Alps as well.
Because quartz is so common, rock crystal is not a rare stone. Its value lies mainly in its clarity, its shape and how beautifully the stone has been worked.
What does raw rock crystal look like?
Raw rock crystal is not cut. The stone still has its natural shape, with small facets, edges and sometimes a few milky white spots. No two pieces are the same.
Those milky white spots are called inclusions. They are tiny traces of water, gas or other minerals from the time the crystal was growing. For many lovers of the stone, they make it more personal.
How strong is rock crystal?
Rock crystal scores a 7 on the Mohs scale. This scale runs from 1 to 10 and shows how well a stone resists scratches. The Gemological Institute of America explains that the scale is relative: quartz is a 7, diamond a 10.
In practice, you notice this straight away. A bracelet with rock crystal taps against your desk, your laptop or your bag all day. A softer stone scratches more quickly, while rock crystal stays clear for longer.
A family of other quartzes
Rock crystal is the basic model of the quartz family. If nature adds a little iron or natural radiation, you get other colours. Think of purple amethyst, pink rose quartz or brownish grey smoky quartz.
These brothers and sisters are similar to rock crystal in strength. That is why a smoky quartz bracelet is just as easy to wear every day.
Interstellar Bracelet Smoky Quartz
What does rock crystal mean according to tradition?
In old stories, rock crystal stands for clarity and purity. Many wearers experience the stone as a symbol of a fresh start. Other people see it as a sign of resilience, because the crystal forms under high pressure.
It is good to know that these meanings come from tradition and experience. They are not scientifically proven. Also read how a gemstone bracelet works according to tradition for more background.
A bracelet with a story
For the Alpe d'HuZes campaign, the brand designed a limited edition bracelet with raw rock crystal. The full margin of this bracelet goes to cancer research through Alpe d'HuZes. The raw stone was chosen as a symbol of perseverance and hope.
So you are not only wearing a beautiful stone. You are also supporting a good cause.
How do you recognise real rock crystal?
Rock crystal looks like glass, but there are differences. Real crystal feels colder when you hold it against your lip or cheek. Glass warms up faster in your hand.
Also look at the inside. Glass sometimes has round air bubbles, while rock crystal tends to show small lines or tiny clouds. Not sure about the difference between natural and imitation? Then read this explanation about natural and synthetic gemstones.
Check the label
The product page always states which type of stone is used. For quartz in a bright colour, you will sometimes see Hydro Quartz listed. You see this with Ruby Quartz, for example. If you want purely natural rock crystal, check this specification carefully.
Saturn Bracelet Large Ruby Quartz
How do you combine rock crystal in a bracelet?
Because rock crystal is colourless, the stone goes with everything. It forms a kind of point of light between coloured stones. Combine it with a warm stone for contrast, or with silver for a fresh, cool look.
The beads of these bracelets are made of 925 sterling silver, with a gold plated or rhodium plated finish. Craftspeople in Italy, Bangkok and Hong Kong string them by hand. Curious for more? Discover every bracelet with gemstones in the collection, or view all gemstones at a glance.
A practical tip: take your bracelet off before you exercise, swim or shower. That way the elastic and the finish of the beads stay beautiful for longer.
Frequently asked questions about rock crystal
I'm happy to answer a few frequently asked questions:
Is rock crystal the same as glass?
No. Rock crystal is a natural quartz, glass is made by people. Crystal is harder and feels colder.
Does rock crystal change colour?
No, rock crystal keeps its clear colour. Clean the stone now and then with a soft, dry cloth and it will keep its shine.
Is raw rock crystal less strong than cut rock crystal?
The stone itself is just as hard. A raw shape does have more edges, so avoid knocking it against hard surfaces.
Does rock crystal go with gold?
Yes. Colourless crystal looks lovely with gold plated beads and just as good with rhodium plated beads. The crystal takes on a little of the warm or cool tone of the metal.
Want to know more, or have questions? The experts at Sparkling Jewels are happy to help.
