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Quartz

Color:

Ranges from transparent or translucent to varieties such as citrine (yellow to orange), rose quartz (pink), amethyst (light to dark purple), smoky quartz (brown-tan-black). Milky quartz  is a creamy white with some yellow tones. Rutilated quartz is often deep yellow to gold or red, but the interest is in the “rutiles,” or tiny hair-like inclusions.

Gem family:

Quartz

Birthstone:

Citrine quartz is one of three traditional birthstones for November, and amethyst is the birthstone for February.

History:

In ancient times, people believed quartz was formed of petrified ice, and most primeval cultures revered quartz.

Use in jewelry:

Quartz is versatile and can be set in all jewelry styles.

Mohs hardness:

7 (1 softest to 10 hardest)

Common treatments:

Can have color enhanced by heat, irradiation to intensify the color. All treatments must be disclosed.

Care:

Clean with mild soap and water, wipe with a soft cloth.

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