CRYSTALS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH PERFECTION, transparency, and clarity. Many crystals fit these ideals, especially those cut as gemstones, but most are neither perfect nor transparent. Crystals are solid materials in which the atoms are arranged in a regular pattern (pp. 14-15). Many substances can grow in characteristic geometric forms enclosed by smooth plane surfaces. They are said to have crystallized, and the plane surfaces are known as faces. The word crystal is based on the Greek word krystallos, derived from kryos meaning icy cold. In ancient times it was thought that rock crystal, a colourless variety of quartz, was ice that had frozen so hard it would never melt.

What is a crystal?

A world of crystals

Natural beauty

Crystals - outside...

...and inside

The colour of crystals

Identification

Natural growth

Good habits

Discovery- recovery

Growing from seed

Crystals at work

Good vibrations

Quartz

Diamond

Corundum

Beryl

Opal

Other gemstones

Collectors' items

Stones for carving

Precious metals

Animal and vegetable

What is it worth?

Making them sparkle

Lore and legends

Crystals at home

Did you know?

Identifying gemstones

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Glossary

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