Druzy Crystal Definition
Druzy crystals are gemstones with a specific shape, texture, and appearance that make them appealing to the eye. Though they may appear otherwise, druzy crystals are not synthetic. They are often cleaned and polished in laboratories and used in jewelry designs.
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Identification
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Druzy crystals form on the surface of minerals. They appear as tiny, sparkling crystalline points. According to the article "Semi Precious Gemstones: Druzy Crystals" on All About Gemstones, when mineral crystals such as garnet, chalcedony or amethyst form, there is sometimes a layer of condensed crystal points that harden on the surface of the stone. This translucent layer is known as a "druzy encrustation," hence the name "druzy crystal."
Types
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In addition to their appearance, druzy crystals are primarily found on cabochons; a type of gemstone and crystal shape that is flat on one side and rounded on the other. According to the "Drusy FAQ" on Drusy by Maxam Magnata, the druzy has a texture similar to sugar crystals and brightly sparkles when held up to light. The article "Semi Precious Gemstones: Druzy Crystal" also reports that druzy crystal is primarily found on agate, chrysocolla, chalcedony, jasper and cobalto carnite; semiprecious gems that can be found in various locations throughout the world. When identifying druzy, it is also important to note that there are two types of druzy crystals: the "natural" druzy that is simply a beige, tan or transparent layer of crystals that has formed over a gemstone, and the vapor-coated druzy, which is synthetically enhanced.
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Vapor Coating
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The "All About Gemstones" article states that vapor coating is also referred to as vapor deposition and is a process through which druzy crystals are enhanced with more intense colors. Quite often a titanium and oxygen vapor is used to enhance a layer of druzy to appear deeply blue, green or purple while platinum can be used to create a silver or whitish hue. In addition to creating various colors, some jewelry makers simply coat their druzy in a precious metal. For example, the article "Druzy!" on Heart of Stones Studio showcases a wide variety of druzy crystals coated in 24 carat gold.
Jewelry and Collecting
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Because druzy crystals are cabochon shaped, they can be placed in a variety of settings to attract the eye and compliment any apparel. Druzy crystals can be set into all types of metals and formed into pendants to create necklaces or earrings. Druzy crystal can also be collected simply for its value and aesthetic appeal.
Considerations
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Although druzy can be used to make fine jewelry, keep in mind that it is a relatively fragile type of semiprecious stone and is often not used to craft bracelets, rings or watches. According to the article "Druzy!", the crystals are not profoundly delicate in terms of their individual strength but because of their shape and texture. Jewelry pieces that are susceptible to getting bumped or hit against hard surfaces should not be used with druzy.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Quartz Crystal and Amethyst Crystal image by Stephen Orsillo from Fotolia.com
