Add Gorgeous Sparkle With Rock Quartz Crystal

Though it’s the most common mineral found on Earth, there is something about crystal in its raw state that is so luxurious. Whether this semiprecious gem is hanging from a chandelier, decorating a mantel or taking a table lamp to the next level, using it is a great way to add low-key elegance to any room. Whether you’re in the market for a jaw-dropping light fixture or a few simple pieces, there are nearly endless resources and design ideas for crystals.

The backstory. According to mineralogy database mindat.org, quartz is a significant component of many igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. In other words, it’s everywhere. Crystals end (or, as geologists say, terminate) in a single point at their tip. The bottom end is flat; this is where the crystal grows from its host rock.


Although quartz crystal is mined all over the world, some of the finest specimens come from the U.S. (Arkansas, in particular), Brazil, the Swiss Alps, Peru, the Himalayas and Madagascar. The largest known single quartz crystal to date is about 20 feet long and weighs more than 48 tons.


Herkimer “diamond” quartz crystals, like the one shown here, terminate in two points. That’s because they have little contact with their hosts as they grow and form inside little pockets found within much larger rocks. Herkimers are rare and are mined in Herkimer County, New York, and surrounding areas.


What are the differences among quartz types? Rock quartz used in decor is the same quartz used for countertops, but in a different form.

Natural quartz countertops are quarried slabs of the natural stone — not single clusters of the mineral.

Engineered quartz (such as Caeserstone) is generally made of a mixture of 95 percent ground natural stone bound together with 5 percent resin.

Kitchen Counters: Stunning, Easy-Care Engineered Quartz


What makes quartz so fascinating? Some people believe that crystals have calming or healing properties, and display them in their homes to “block negative energies,” says Empress Gilbert, principal designer and owner of Empressive GeoDesigns. “Aside from that, many people are just fascinated by the geological histories; every corner of the world has something unique and beautiful to offer.”

The beauty of using an organic element such as quartz is that it works with every style imaginable. And a little goes a long way toward making an impact, as seen with the single large smoky quartz obelisk shown here with a well-edited selection of exceptional objects. The obelisk stands tall among equally lovely pieces but complements them as well.


What to look for. If you’ve never shopped for quartz crystal (or any mineral for that matter), Gilbert recommends looking for something unusual. She also cautions against buying something made of many small pieces glued together. You can tell the difference between a solid piece of quartz crystal and a manufactured piece by looking at the formation and noticing if any pieces are falling off. Those pieces are not high quality and are often overpriced.

“Most important,” Gilbert adds, “look for something that speaks to you and your style. Find a piece that you can’t stop looking at. If you’re browsing around a mineral showroom and there’s a particular piece that you find yourself coming back to, maybe that’s the one for you.”



Add a little sparkle to your space. Quartz crystals can add a dash of luxury in an interesting way. They come in a range of varieties and colors — amethyst (shown here), rose quartz, smoky quartz and citrine are some examples. The range and beauty of quartz make it a designer’s dream accessory.

“I find myself enchanted by the idea that the earth, without any assistance from humans, creates such beautiful structures in so many different colors and formations,” Gilbert says.

If you’re the adventurous type, go bold with supersize clusters in unexpected places, such as the kitchen or family room.



Pro tip: When it comes to displaying single pieces, it’s all in the details. “If you’re making the investment in a nice piece, don’t skimp on the display,” Gilbert says. “The natural beauty of a piece can be completely thrown off by the wrong stand.”

Gilbert recommends that you think of your quartz crystal like a gemstone. The setting should complement and elevate the quartz, not detract from it. She suggests looking for something timeless, like a well-finished stainless steel stand or a properly sized acrylic base.


When installing pieces in her clients’ homes, Gilbert first considers the existing elements, like the wall color, upholstery and, especially, the lighting. It’s important to place your quartz crystal where it will be seen and appreciated.

Experiment: Add quartz to your decor in unusual ways. Think entryway vignettes and mantelpiece makeovers, or try turning a powder room into a literal jewel box by opting for a statement piece, such as the quartz-encrusted mirror seen here.


For those who prefer pieces with more showstopping appeal, a hefty chunk of rock crystal made into lighting might be what you’re looking for. The size of the rock quartz here sets it apart from its surroundings and allows the lamp to act as an important piece of design instead of blending into the overall look and feel of the room.



Rock quartz crystal mixed with metals such as copper, wrought iron or stainless steel gives chandeliers a modern spin.


Quartz has a subtler and more diffused shine than traditional polished cut crystal. In this contemporary dining room, the rock quartz chandelier has a gauzy, romantic glow that works well with the subtly chic and approachable setting.


Extra-large quartz crystal specimens create a wow moment wherever they stand. Their sheer size and shine are completely unexpected and luxurious.

In this Mediterranean-style room, the tall, deep purple amethyst has a strong presence — it stands out from the rest of the design. It draws the eye to its form in an interesting way.



With the holidays quickly approaching, what better way to add a natural wintery shimmer than with quartz crystal? Reminiscent of an icy wonderland, oversize clusters of colored quartz crystal set upon coffee tables or consoles or as a centerpiece invite conversation and provide visual interest.

Cost: High-quality crystals can run anywhere from $125 for an 8-inch cluster to several thousand dollars for a 3-foot tower. Check the events listings in your area for gem and jewelry shows; you can often get great prices on quality quartz crystals by buying directly from dealers.

More: 7 Natural Stones With Enduring Beauty

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