Quartz

Quartz is a mineral you come across everywhere—also in jewellery. Many stones people know by name (such as rose quartz and amethyst) are actually varieties of quartz. That’s why “quartz” is both a broad term and a very practical category to understand if you want to know what you’re buying, what colours exist, and how to care for jewellery set with quartz.

What is quartz?

Quartz is a natural mineral (silicon dioxide) found in large quantities in the Earth’s crust. In jewellery, quartz is used because it:

• occurs in many colours (natural or treated)

• can be cut into beautiful shapes and facets

• has a timeless look that suits many styles

When a piece is simply described as “quartz”, it may be a general label for a quartz variety where the colour or type is not specified.

What colours does quartz come in?

One of the biggest reasons quartz is popular is its colour range. The best-known colours/varieties include:

• Clear quartz / rock crystal: transparent to slightly whitish

• White/milky quartz: a more opal/white appearance

• Rose quartz: light pink to blush

• Amethyst: purple shades from light to deep

• Citrine: yellow to golden

• Smoky quartz: grey/brown smoky tone

• Black quartz: rarer in a classic sense, but may appear as very dark smoky quartz or treated stones

Colour can vary from stone to stone, especially in natural quartz, as the mineral may have natural veils, small inclusions, or tonal differences.

Is quartz a gemstone?

Quartz is typically considered a semi-precious gemstone in jewellery terminology. It is natural, but it is not among the “classic” precious gemstones like diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald. For customers, this often means quartz offers strong visual impact for the price and is available in many styles.

Is quartz “the same” as crystal?

Quartz and “crystal” often overlap in everyday language. “Crystal” is commonly used to describe clear, sparkling looks—and rock crystal is exactly a clear variety of quartz. So “crystal stone” may often refer to quartz (rock crystal), but the word “crystal” can also be used more broadly. It’s therefore best to check whether the specific type is stated.

What does quartz look like in jewellery?

Quartz can look very different depending on the variety and cut:

• Faceted quartz creates a more sparkling look (especially in clear or vivid colours).

• Cabochon (smooth, rounded cut) gives a softer, more “silky” look and highlights colour and depth.

• Raw/lightly polished quartz can create a more natural, organic feel.

Quartz therefore works well in minimalist jewellery as well as designs where the stone is the main focus.

How durable is quartz?

Quartz is generally a robust stone for everyday jewellery, but like all stones it can scratch or chip from hard impacts. Rings usually see the most wear, while earrings and necklaces often stay looking nice longer because they’re less likely to hit hard surfaces.

Can quartz handle water, soap, and perfume?

Water itself is rarely the issue, but soap residue, chlorine, perfume, and cleaning products can affect both metal and the stone’s surface over time—especially with repeated exposure. That’s why it’s a good habit to remove quartz jewellery for bathing/showering, swimming, washing dishes, and cleaning.

How do you clean quartz?

Quartz is typically easy to clean gently:

• use lukewarm water and a little mild soap

• dry with a soft cloth

• avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive products

If the stone is set in a mounting, dirt can collect around the setting. A very soft brush can help, but be gentle and avoid scrubbing hard.

Why do many people choose quartz?

Quartz is popular because it combines:

• wide colour variation

• timeless design potential

• a look that can be subtle or bold

• easy styling with both silver and gold

Quartz makes it easy to choose a stone that fits your personal style—without feeling “too much”.