Buying Crystals - A Short Guide

 

Buying crystals either as a single crystal, a gemstone, or a cluster involves determining the value and comparing it to the offered price.  The value of a crystal is dependant on several factors.  Each of these factors should be considered when you are deciding to purchase a crystal or gemstone.

Crystal Weight.

 

The first factor is the size of the crystal or cluster.  Like many things, the larger the crystal the more it will cost PER UNIT OF WEIGHT.  For example a small topaz crystal might cost $3 per gram.  A larger one might be $5 per gram.  If the first one weighed 10 grams it would cost $30.  If the second, bigger one weighed 20 grams it would be $100.  It is twice as big, but costs over three times as much. 

 

Crystals, Gemstones and crystal clusters are often sold by weight. Here is a handy table. Read across the table. For example the first line says 1 carat is 1/5 of a gram and is 1/141 of an ounce. The second line says 5 carats is one gram and 1/28 of an ounce.

 

 

Crystal Condition

The second factor in the value of a crystal is its condition.  You are concerned with both the external of the crystal and its insides. Again, like many things, damage reduces value.  Since most crystals grow in the ground, they are subject to many kinds of damage.  Of course, mining, cleaning, packaging, and transporting also are hazardous.  Ensure you look carefully and inspect any crystal or cluster.  Reputable dealers will point out nicks and abrasions, and will fully disclose damage and repair.  However, as the buyer, you have to do the final inspection. 

If you are buying a gemstone, it should not have external damage that is visible with a 10-power loupe.  It should not have unreported internal flaws or inclusions that are visible with a 10-power loop either. 

A crystal or cluster should not have damage you can see with your naked eye.  Be aware most crystals and clusters have some minor abrasions and separation planes where they were dislodged.  This is natural, and not considered damage, except in very expensive specimens costing in the tens of thousands of dollars. 

Many, many crystals are included.  You should understand how included a specimen is.  Heavily included crystals are of significantly less value than one that is internally flawless.  However, don’t overlook a good crystal just because it has a few internal features.  Just be aware of how they affect the value.  The amethyst crystal pictured here has sharp crystal edges with no abrasions. It has some minor inclusions that are eye visible and should be considered in setting its value.

 

Rarity and Popularity

The next factors to consider in determining the value of a crystal is the rarity of the mineral and the demand in the marketplace.  A diamond crystal will cost a lot more than a sulfur one.  Diamonds are considerably more rare.  Jadeite costs considerably more than Nephrite.  It is considerably more rare. 

 

It takes a bit of research to find out how rare a crystal or mineral is. You have to be a bit careful. Just searching on the internet can lead you astray. Even though diamonds are rare, they are so popular that there are thousands of dealers advertising them. Sulfur crystals are much more common, but because the demand is low, there are not too many advertised for sale. The popularity of a mineral is the flip side of the rarity factor.  Like many collectibles,  the demand fluctuates over time.  Watch out for artificial prices driven by sudden popularity.  Think Beanie Babies.  I can get you some real good deals on them now! Good crystals are always in demand, but if the supply is very large, the price will not be high. As you look at crystals consider the rarity and popularity of the mineral from which it formed. If crystals from that mineral are hard to find, and in demand, then their value will be higher than a similar looking crystal from a common mineral.

 

The Color of a Crystal

Color is the next big factor.  It drives the prices of virtually all crystals.  The color of a ruby, sapphire, diamond, or tourmaline is a major factor in the price.  Certain colors are in high demand, and command high prices.  This too takes some research. Generally a crystal that has a dark hue but is still very transparent is the most desired in the marketplace and commands the highest price. Washed out colors, or colors that are zoned, or murky command lower prices. They don't have the desirability of the crystals with beautiful, clear, rich, and vibrant hues. Always judge the color of a crystal. It matters.

 

Crystal Aesthetics

Aesthetics is another factor you should consider in any crystal purchase.  Frankly, crystals and clusters that appeal to our sense of proportion, beauty, and design have higher value.  This is certainly in the eye of the beholder.   Buy crystals that appeal to you. 

 

Crystal Enhancements

Finally, the last factor is how the crystal or cluster has been enhanced or modified by human intervention.  Many collectors and users prize completely natural crystals.  However, some enhancements add value, such as heat treating topaz.  It is important that you know what has been done to a crystal to make it appear as it does.  Is it heat treated, polished, or coated?  Ask these type questions. 

A Checklist for Evaluating a Crystal

In fact here are some questions to ask about any crystal or cluster as you attempt to discover its value: