Aura Quartz (specifically Rose Aura Quartz or Pink Aura Quartz)
Quartz (var. Rock Crystal) with vapor-deposited metallic coating · Decorative Stone / Man-made Enhancement Mineral
Crystal System
Trigonal. Habit is prismatic with hexagonal cross-sections, often forming needle-like clusters (sprays).
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) + Au (Gold) and/or Pt (Platinum) micron-thick surface coating
Formation Process
Synthetic/Hydrothermal Surface Treatment. Natural quartz crystals are placed in a vacuum chamber and coated with vaporized metals via electrostatic bonding at high temperatures.
About This Crystal
Vibrant magenta-to-pink prismatic crystals with a characteristic metallic, iridescent 'oil-slick' or pearly luster. The crystals are transparent to translucent, showing rainbow surface flashes due to thin-film interference.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Hot pink/magenta with rainbow iridescence. Streak: White (if base quartz is crushed). Fracture: Conchoidal. Lustre: Vitreous to metallic-interference. Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553. Birefringence: 0.009. Shows iridescence and pleochroic-like color shifts caused by the artificial metal layer rather than the internal crystal lattice.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Natural quartz primarily from Brazil or Arkansas, USA; bonding process typically occurs in specialized laboratory facilities.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7 (base quartz). However, the metallic coating is very thin and can be scratched or rubbed off (hardness of coating is approx. 2.5-3). Brittle tenacity.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning. Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive chemicals or scrubbers, as these will strip the color coating.
Rarity & Value
Common. Value is determined by the quality of the underlying crystal cluster and the uniformity of the 'aura' coating. Generally inexpensive decorative items.
Special Characteristics
Surface iridescence (thin-film interference), man-made color enhancement, dichroic-like shifts under different lighting angles.
Lore & History
A modern 'alchemical' stone created in the late 20th century. While not found in ancient history, it is popular in New Age practices, believed to combine the properties of quartz and gold to enhance the heart chakra and promote emotional healing.