Ring with quartz (Herkimer)

Rock crystal is an exceptionally pure, transparent variety of natural quartz, highly prized for its perfect transparency and bright vitreous luster. Its well-formed crystals, often of a characteristic hexagonal shape with pointed peaks (pyramidal terminations), can reach considerable size and are a desirable object for collectors.

Although ideal rock crystal is completely colorless ('water-clear'), it can sometimes contain small natural inclusions of other minerals, gas or liquids, which give each specimen its uniqueness and indicate its natural origin. These inclusions can create interesting internal landscapes or barely noticeable shades. This common mineral forms in a variety of geological settings, including hydrothermal veins, pegmatites and metamorphic rocks. Significant deposits of quality rock crystal crystals are known in Brazil, the Alps (Switzerland, France, Austria), the United States (Arkansas), Madagascar and the Himalayas.

Due to its hardness, transparency and relative availability, rock crystal has long been used by man to make jewelry, carvings, decorative objects and even optical lenses. Its crystalline purity has often been associated with clarity and purity of intention.

Today, rock crystal remains a popular choice for jewelers, designers and mineral collectors. It is a wonderful example of the natural beauty and perfection of crystalline forms, making it a valuable exhibit in any mineralogical collection or an exquisite element of decor.