What is the Difference Between Real and Fake Crystals

The main difference between real and fake crystals is that real crystals have natural colors and weight, imperfections and inclusions, and are often cool to the touch, whereas fake crystals tend to have a light weight, bright or perfect color, uniform texture, and no imperfections,

For centuries, people have been using crystals as decorative objects, healing tools, and spiritual aids. From amethyst to quartz to rose quartz, there are countless varieties of crystals with their own unique properties and uses. However, the popularity of crystals has also led to an increase in fake crystals on the market, which can be difficult for consumers to distinguish from the real thing.

Key Areas Covered

1. What are Real Crystals
     – Definition, Features, Identification 
2. What are Fake Crystals
    – Definition, Features, Identification 
3. Difference Between Real and Fake Crystals
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Synthetic Crystals, Real Crystals, Fake Crystals

What are Real Crystals

Real crystals are naturally occurring minerals that have formed over thousands of years under specific conditions, such as extreme heat and pressure. They are typically mined from the earth and can be found in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Real crystals have a unique molecular structure that gives them their characteristic physical and metaphysical properties.

One of the key ways to identify a real crystal is by examining its physical properties. Real crystals have a natural, uneven texture that is hard to replicate. They may also have small imperfections (cracks, scratches, etc.) or inclusions that add to their beauty and uniqueness. In addition, real crystals are often cool to the touch and may have a natural weight to them.

What are Fake Crystals

Fake crystals, also known as “man-made” or “synthetic” crystals, are produced in a laboratory using various chemical processes. They are designed to mimic the appearance and properties of real crystals but are not naturally occurring. Fake crystals can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, plastic, resin, or even compressed minerals.

One of the main differences between real and fake crystals is their physical properties. Fake crystals often have a uniform texture and may be perfectly smooth or polished. They also tend to be lighter in weight than real crystals. In addition, fake crystals may have air bubbles or other imperfections that are a result of the manufacturing process.

Difference Between Real and Fake Crystals

Definition

Real crystals are naturally occurring minerals that form over thousands of years, whereas fake crystals are produced in a laboratory using various chemical processes.

Texture

Real crystals have a natural, uneven texture that is hard to replicate, while fake crystals may have a uniform texture that is too smooth or polished.

Imperfections

Real crystals often have small imperfections like cracks and scratches or inclusions, while fake crystals may have air bubbles or other imperfections that are a result of the manufacturing process.

Weight

Fake crystals tend to be lighter in weight than real crystals.

Temperature

Real crystals are often cool to the touch, while fake crystals feel warm to the touch or at room temperature.

Color

Real crystals come in various colors, but these natural colors are hard to replicate. Meanwhile, fake crystals may have a color that appears too bright or perfect.

Hardness

Most common crystals have a hardness of at least 6 on the Mohs scale, making them relatively resistant to scratches and shattering, but fake crystals have a lower hardness.

Price

Real crystals can be expensive, depending on their rarity and quality. If a crystal is priced very low, it may be a fake crystal.

Documentation

If purchasing from a reputable source, real crystals may come with documentation that verifies their authenticity and origin.

Conclusion

Keep in mind that some fake crystals can be very convincing, so it’s important to do your research and purchase from reputable sources. In general, real crystals have natural colors and weight, imperfections, and inclusions, and are often cool to the touch, whereas fake crystals tend to have a lightweight, bright or perfect color, uniform texture, and no imperfections. Thus, this is the summary of the difference between real and fake crystals.

Reference:

1. “How to Tell If a Crystal Is Real?” WikiHow.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Close-Up Photo Of Assorted Crystals” (CC0) via Pexels
2. “Purple Crystal in Close Up Shot” (CC0) via Pexels