How to differentiate between crystals, plastics, and glass?

This is one of the common questions when dealing with crystals especially if you are looking at quartz, citrine and stones with high optical clarity in faceted, point, ball or beads form.

Strictly speaking, genuine crystal stones (or gemstones) are energy source by itself so in close proximity you will feel a mild warmness or a tingle feeling. This is due to energy emanate from it. Glass or plastic will not give you the same experience. By far, this is the most accurate method to determine the authenticity.

Most of us, when we first started experimenting with these stones, we tends NOT to be so sensitive to their energy. I have compile below guidelines that can offer some help to you. However, it is by no means a comprehensive or exhaustive method to determine the authenticity of the crystals.

1. Outlook – As these stones are natural occurring minerals, no matter how they are shaped, planes or flaws usually can be observed. On the other hand, plastics and glass are artificially created so they tend to look perfect. A little too perfect to be real crystals.
2. Weight - When placed on hand, crystals are heavier than plastics or glass of similar size so you should be able to feel the differences. The exception is amber which is light weight by nature.
3. Feel – Holding it in your hand, and immediately you should experience an instantaneous, short lasting, cool feeling. In comparison, for both plastics and glass material, this feeling is not pronounced especially for plastics.

(Am I contradicting myself? On one hand I say that crystal gives a gentle warmness while on the other hand, I say crystal gives an instantaneous cooling feeling? Of course not! Okay, let me elaborate a little more here. When you hold a piece of crystal in your hand, instantaneously you should experience the cooling sensation. Place the crystal in close proximity and as you feel relaxed, you should be able to feel the gentle warmness or tingling feeling.)

4. Price – Be skeptical when you see “crystals” at irresistibly low or exorbitantly high price. Do your due diligence, check around and you should have a fairly good idea on a reasonable selling price for the crystal of your choice. However do note that quality crystals are expected to cost more than those of inferior grade.

Back to Articles Directory
From Crystals Article 1 To Crystals Bay Home Page