Crystals often form over millions of years deep within the Earth under extreme pressure and temperature. During this long journey, it's common for natural cracks—also known as fractures or fissures—to develop. These imperfections can tell us a lot about a crystal's history, environment, and authenticity.
Natural cracks form due to shifts in pressure, rapid cooling, or tectonic activity. Unlike man-made damage, these cracks usually show a more organic, branching pattern, and often contain inclusions like minerals, fluids, or even gas bubbles trapped inside. In gemology, these features are considered “nature’s fingerprints.”
To identify a natural crack:
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Look for irregular, non-linear patterns rather than sharp or clean breaks.
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Use a loupe or microscope to check for inclusions within the crack.
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Observe the surface: natural cracks often have a more weathered texture than freshly broken glassy surfaces.
While some view these imperfections as flaws, many collectors appreciate them as part of a crystal’s unique journey through geological time.
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