Alternative Names: Rock Crystal et al.
Origin: Worldwide, notably Brazil, China
Mineral Species: Quartz
Mineral Group: Oxides
Chemical Formula: SiO2
Hardness: 7
Crystal System: Trigonal
Colour: Colourless to white, and many other colours (coloured varities usually have different names)
Typical Appearance: Usually prismatic crystals with steep pyramidal terminations, but may be bipyramidal or needle-like. Also massive.
Birthstone: Aquarius (although in some systems it is considered an Astrological Stone for all signs)
Chakra Alignment: Crown; Balances all Chakras
Element: None
Origin of Name & Mythology: From the German 'Quarz', of uncertain origin.
Quartz is arguably the most important crystal in crystal healing.
Clear quartz is used to channel, transmit, cleanse and magnify energy, giving it many uses in crystal healing, meditation and spiritual work. Due to its clarity and tendency to form in straight crystals, quartz is believed to bring clarity and focus to the mind, help decision making and enhance intellect. It is often used in wands to literally direct energy to a desired area, as well as to enhance and strengthen the effect for other crystals.
The main other attributes of quartz are its healing and cleansing powers. Quartz has a clean energy believed to relieve pain and encourage healing. It is used to cleanse the mind, body and spirit of negative energy and ailments, making it an endlessly versatile crystal.
There are many different varieties of Quartz, each with their own structure, esoteric attributes and associations. To find out more about some special varieties please click below: