Things you didn't know about crystals

So, you’ve fallen in love with the captivating world of crystals? Welcome! It’s an enchanting realm filled with beauty, energy, and a touch of mystery. But as you delve deeper, you’ll inevitably encounter natural “imperfections” within your gemstones. Don’t let these characteristics deter you! At LYRIAH Jewelry, we believe these natural inclusions tell a story, adding character and uniqueness to each crystal. Let’s decode some of the most common natural phenomena you’ll find in crystals, and learn to appreciate their inherent beauty.

It’s important to remember that most commercially available crystals, especially those at accessible price points, will exhibit some of these natural characteristics. Even high-quality, expensive crystals can have minor inclusions. Crystals without any natural features exist, but their value is extremely high, making them collector’s items.

Here are some common natural inclusions you’ll encounter in your crystal journey:

1. Mineral Deficiencies (Mineral Inclusions/Pitting): These appear as small pits or indentations on the surface of the crystal. They occur during the crystal’s formation process, often when other mineral crystals were present and later detached during polishing, leaving behind empty spaces.
   • Common in: Garnet, Green Phantom Quartz, Rutile Quartz (Titanium Quartz).
   • LYRIAH Perspective: These aren’t flaws, they’re tiny windows into the crystal’s geological past!
2. Associated Minerals (Host Minerals): These are other minerals that are naturally present within the crystal structure. They often share similar chemical properties and a common origin, resulting in their coexistence.
   • Common in: Tiger’s Eye, Garnet, Rutile Quartz.
   • LYRIAH Perspective: These companion minerals can enhance the crystal’s energy and add visual complexity.
3. Cleavage (Fractures): These are secondary fractures caused by geological activity after the crystal’s initial formation. They occur when the crystal is exposed to stress, seismic activity, or weathering after emerging on the earth’s surface.
   • Common in: Tiger’s Eye and related crystals.
   • LYRIAH Perspective: These are battle scars earned as the crystal journeys from deep inside the earth.
4. Mineral Pits: Similar to mineral deficiencies, these surface pits are formed naturally during the crystal’s growth, not from human damage.
   • Common in: Amethyst, Golden Strawberry Quartz, Rutile Quartz (Titanium Quartz).
   • LYRIAH Perspective: Like tiny fingerprints, these mineral pits mark the long journey that the crystal went on before finding its way to you.
5. Cotton Wool or Clouding: These appear as hazy or cloudy areas within a transparent crystal, resembling cotton wool or mist.
   • Common in: Rose Quartz, Strawberry Quartz, Amethyst, Smoky Quartz, Rutile Quartz.
   • LYRIAH Perspective: Adds a soft, ethereal quality, diffusing light beautifully.
6. Ice Cracks (Internal Fractures): These are fracture-like patterns within the crystal, created during its long growth process due to fluctuating environmental conditions (like temperature) and geological movements.
   • Common in: Rose Quartz, Aquamarine, Amethyst, Clear Quartz.
   • LYRIAH Perspective: Like tiny lightning bolts frozen in time, these create fascinating visual patterns.

LYRIAH Jewelry: Celebrating Natural Beauty

At LYRIAH Jewelry, we embrace the natural imperfections that make each crystal unique. We believe these characteristics add character, authenticity, and a touch of earthly magic to our designs. Our goal is to showcase the inherent beauty of crystals, inclusions and all, creating pieces that are both stunning and meaningful.

When selecting LYRIAH Jewelry, consider these inclusions as hallmarks of authenticity and nature’s artistry. They are reminders that each crystal has a story to tell, and you are now a part of that story.

What’s your favorite natural inclusion to find in a crystal, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We love hearing about your crystal discoveries!