Cracked Blue Quartz (Fire-and-Ice Quartz)
Quartz var. Treated Quartz · Decorative Stone and Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal (Modified spherical bead habit)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Laboratory heat-treated and water-quenched natural or synthetic clear quartz to induce internal fracturing, followed by artificial dyeing
About This Crystal
The specimen consists of spherical spherical beads exhibiting an intense network of internal fractures or crazing, creating a shattered glass effect. The beads display vibrant blue coloration concentrated along the internal fracture planes, combined with translucent to transparent areas and a high vitreous polish.
Physical Characteristics
Color is vivid blue with white/clear fracture networks; white streak; conchoidal fracture due to the intentional thermal shocking; specific gravity approximately 2.65; brittle tenacity; no cleavage; vitreous luster.
Optical Properties
Singly or doubly refractive depending on the base material; refractive index around 1.544-1.553; strong internal light reflection off the numerous internal fracture planes creating a glittering, spangled appearance.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Synthetically treated globally, manufactured from natural or synthetic quartz base material
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7 for the quartz material, but the extensive internal fracturing significantly reduces its overall toughness and structural integrity, making it prone to breaking under sharp impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and harsh chemicals which can penetrate the fractures and degrade the dye or weaken the stones; store away from prolonged direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Rarity & Value
Common and inexpensive; valued primarily for decorative jewelry and fashion accessories rather than mineralogical rarity; typically low-cost mass-produced items.
Special Characteristics
Features intensive internal thermal fracturing (crackled texture) and artificial dye impregnation that causes light to scatter dramatically throughout the bead.
Lore & History
Often marketed in metaphysical communities as 'Fire and Ice Quartz' or 'Dragon's Vein Quartz', believed by practitioners to amplify energy, stimulate clarity, and bring intense emotional balance, though these are modern spiritual beliefs rather than scientific properties.