Blue Sandstone
Synthetic Glass with Copper Inclusions · Decorative Stone / Synthetic Gemstone
Crystal System
Amorphous (Man-made glass)
Mineral Group
Man-made Glass / Artificial Silicate
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (glass matrix) with Cu (copper inclusions)
Formation Process
Artificially synthesized by melting silica, copper oxide, and other metallic elements in a reducing atmosphere, then cooling slowly to allow copper crystals to precipitate.
About This Crystal
A polished, dark blue to nearly black opaque carving (shaped like a bear) that intensely sparkles under direct light due to suspended hexagonal copper micro-crystals.
Physical Characteristics
Dark blue or black body color, white streak, amorphous habit, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.5 to 2.8, brittle tenacity, no natural magnetism or fluorescence.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive isotropic glass matrix, notable aventurescence displaying a metallic glitter effect caused by light reflecting off suspended copper flakes.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Man-made, primarily manufactured in factories in China, Italy, and India.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6.5, moderate toughness, sensitive to harsh chemicals and thermal shock, prone to scratching if stored improperly.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and abrasive chemicals. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent surface scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common and inexpensive, widely available as tumbled stones, carvings, and beads, with no natural scarcity or significant collector value.
Special Characteristics
Aventurescence or the 'night sky' effect caused by metallic copper inclusions suspended within the dark blue glass matrix.
Lore & History
Often associated in modern crystal healing with ambition, drive, and revitalization. Although frequently treated as a crystal in metaphysical traditions, it is entirely human-made and lacks ancient historical lore.