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.
