I am sure we are all familiar with the mineral Quartz, be it used to drive our watches or seen set in a wide range of fashion and fine jewellery. Here are some interesting facts about this common mineral!

1. The name quartz comes from the Greek, “krystallos,” meaning ice. 

2. Quartz (SiO₂) is one of the most common gemstone minerals. 

3. There are many types of Quartz and we can broadly divide them into 2 categories: crystalline quartz vs. cryptocrystalline quartz

4. Crystalline quartz consists of common varieties such as Citrine, Amethyst and Rose Quartz, while cryptocrystaline quartz consists of stones such as onyx, chalcedony and Carnelian. 

5. Quartz grows primarily in pegmatites (extreme igneous rocks that form during the final stage of a magma's crystallization), but can also be cultured in hydrothermal laboratories.

6. Quartz is a strong mineral (no. 7 on Mohs Hardness Scale) and exists in many different colours, making it a great choice for creating durable jewellery pieces.

7. It is the only mineral found in large quantity around different locations in the world. Some countries having all the varieties of Quartz include Brazil, United States of America and Russia. 

8. Quartz varieties are usually not enhanced. However, there are few gemstones that would undergo heat treatments to improve their colour. Although quartz can be found in abundance, imitations (Silica) and synthetic forms of quartz remain present in the market today.  

Adapted from: 

Gem Society. https://www.gemsociety.org/article/quartz-jewelry-and-gemstone-information/

Jewel Info 4 U. https://www.jewelinfo4u.com/crystal-quartz-facts-and-buying-guide