Man-made Crystal Glass (Aurora Borealis Coated)
Lead oxide glass with vacuum-deposited metallic coating · Decorative Material / Costume Jewelry Components
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline structure); faceted into bicone and round beads for jewelry
Mineral Group
Technogenic (Man-made Glass) / Amorphous Silicates
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) + PbO (Lead Oxide) and metallic trace elements for coating
Formation Process
Synthetic; produced by melting silica, potash, and lead oxide at high temperatures, then molded or machine-cut and coated
About This Crystal
Transparent emerald-green glass beads featuring machine-cut facets. The surfaces exhibit an iridescent 'Aurora Borealis' (AB) coating, providing multi-colored reflections of blue and purple.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Deep green; Streak: White (powdered glass); Luster: Vitreous to metallic (from coating); Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.4-4.2 (depending on lead content); Fluorescence: Variable
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.50-1.70 (Singly Refractive); Optical Phenomena: Iridescence and thin-film interference from the surface coating
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Manufactured globally; notably Austria (Swarovski), Czech Republic (Preciosa), and China
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 5.5 - 6.0; Brittle tenacity; fairly stable but susceptible to surface scratching and chipping; coating can wear off over time
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and abrasive chemicals which can strip the iridescent coating
Rarity & Value
Common; Very affordable; Value is based on brand reputation and precision of the cut rather than inherent rarity
Special Characteristics
Aurora Borealis (AB) coating creates a rainbow-like play of color on the surface; contains one white freshwater pearl or imitation pearl bead
Lore & History
Historically, crystal glass was popularized in the 18th century as 'strass' to imitate gemstones. In modern lore, green is often associated with the heart chakra and prosperity, though these are man-made decorative items.