Aura Quartz (Tanzan Aura / Opal Aura / Mystic Quartz Cluster)
Quartz var. Treated Quartz (Silicon Dioxide with metal vapor coating) · Enhanced Mineral Specimen / Treated Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal system with prismatic crystal habit forming a druzy cluster
Mineral Group
Silicate mineral group (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 coated with precious metals such as Gold and Titanium
Formation Process
Natural quartz forms hydrothermally in cavities, while the iridescent coating is applied artificially via vacuum deposition of vaporized precious metals at high temperatures
About This Crystal
An amethyst or clear quartz cluster featuring an unmistakable vibrant metallic rainbow sheen with intense flashes of pink, blue, gold, and green. The crystal tips are translucent purple, showing a druzy crystalline matrix with a strong metallic, iridescent luster caused by surface bonding of vaporized metals.
Physical Characteristics
Body color is purple/white with a multicolored metallic coating, white streak, conchoidal fracture, distinct lack of cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and vitreous to metallic luster due to the artificial coating
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, strong metallic interference colors (iridescence) produced by thin-film interference on the crystal faces rather than natural optical phenomena
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Naturally sourced quartz mined in Brazil, Arkansas, or Madagascar, then artificially treated and coated in laboratories primarily in the USA
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7 for the underlying quartz base, but the surface metallic coating can be scratched more easily; moderate durability, sensitive to abrasion and harsh chemicals that can strip the coating
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, harsh chemical cleaners, abrasive scrubbing, and prolonged exposure to abrasive surfaces which can damage the metallic coating
Rarity & Value
Common material; natural quartz is abundant, and the value is determined by the quality of the original cluster and the aesthetic appeal of the artificial metal bonding, typically priced affordably as a decorative specimen
Special Characteristics
Displays intense thin-film interference producing a striking rainbow metallic sheen (often called angel aura or opal aura), combining the underlying piezoelectric properties of quartz with a man-made optical interference effect
Lore & History
Modern creation with no ancient historical significance; highly popular in contemporary New Age and crystal healing practices where it is believed to expand consciousness, stimulate the higher chakras, and cleanse the aura, though these are strictly traditional metaphysical beliefs and not scientific properties