39 Types of Quartz You Need to Know for Your Jewelry Collection

Quartz is a mineral that has been prized for its beauty and usefulness for thousands of years. It is one of the most common minerals on the planet and exists in many forms, each with unique properties and functions. From ornamentation gemstones to industrial use, the many forms of quartz are a mainstay of geology and jewelry. Whether you're a geologist, a gem collector, or just interested in the world of minerals, learning about the many types of quartz and their distinct characteristics can enrich your appreciation for these beautiful stones. In this blog, we'll discuss the many types of quartz that exist around the globe, from familiar varieties such as amethyst to unusual and lesser-known quartz crystals.

Quartz is a hard, crystalline silicon dioxide (SiO₂) mineral. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, making up about 12% of its crust by volume. Quartz forms in many different environments, from deep underground to the surface. Its crystalline structure allows it to grow in various shapes, including hexagonal prisms, clusters, and geodes. Quartz can be found in nearly all rainbow colors, from transparent to vibrant reds, blues, and greens, making it a popular gemstone choice.

There are two main categories of quartz: macrocrystalline and microcrystalline. Macrocrystalline quartz forms large, visible crystals, while microcrystalline quartz forms smaller crystals, often seen as aggregates. Many of the most well-known types of quartz fall into these categories, with each variety offering distinct properties, colors, and uses.

Quartz comes in many different varieties, each offering unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types are used in jewelry and decorative items, while others are important in industrial applications. Below, we explore the specific varieties of quartz, each with its charm and significance.

1.  Agate

Agate is a variety of chalcedony, a type of microcrystalline quartz. It is typically found in banded patterns and can come in various colors, from deep reds to cool blues. Agate Beads are highly regarded for their smooth finish and is often used in cabochons, beads, and pendants. It is believed to promote balance and stability, making it a popular stone in metaphysical circles.

2. Amethyst

Amethyst Beads are one of the most popular types of quartz crystals. They are a stunning purple variety of quartz. Amethyst is known for its calming properties and is often used in jewelry and spiritual practices. It forms in geodes and usually has a deep violet color, though its hues can range from light lavender to deep purple. Amethyst is believed to aid in meditation and promote emotional healing.

3. Ajoite Quartz

Ajoite quartz is a rare variety of quartz that includes ajoite, a copper silicate mineral. The result is a striking crystal with a brilliant blue-green color. This variety is often considered a powerful healing stone and is valued by collectors for its rarity and beauty.

4. Actinolite Quartz

Actinolite is a mineral often found as an inclusion within quartz. It typically displays green hues and has a fibrous texture. Actinolite is considered a stone of growth and prosperity, and it is often used in metaphysical practices to promote healing and energy flow.

5. Ametrine 

Ametrine Beads are the stunning natural hybrid of amethyst and citrine, with purple amethyst transitioning into golden citrine within the same crystal. This type of quartz is highly prized for its striking color contrast and is believed to combine the properties of amethyst and citrine. It is often used to promote clarity and creativity.

6. Blue Quartz

Blue quartz is a beautiful variety of quartz with a soft, tranquil blue color. The blue color comes from natural inclusions of minerals such as dumortierite. Blue quartz is a calming stone often used in meditation and healing practices.

7. Brandberg Quartz

Brandberg quartz is a unique type of quartz found only in the Brandberg Mountain region of Namibia. It is characterized by its clarity and inclusion of various minerals, which can result in a variety of colors and patterns within the crystal. It is considered a powerful stone for spiritual awakening and insight.

8. Candle Quartz (aka Pineapple Quartz)

Candle quartz, also known as pineapple quartz, is a variety of quartz with a distinctive appearance. These crystals grow in clusters that resemble the shape of a candle or pineapple. They are often clear or white and have a unique structure that makes them popular for collectors.

9. Carnelian

Carnelian is a reddish-orange variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz. It is one of the oldest gemstones known to humanity and has been used for jewelry and amulets for thousands of years. Carnelian Beads is believed to inspire creativity, courage, and motivation.

10.  Cat's Eye Quartz

Cat's Eye Quartz is a striking variety of quartz with a silky, chatoyant effect. This effect is caused by inclusions within the crystal, creating a reflection of light that resembles a cat's eye. It is often used in jewelry, particularly in cabochon-cut stones.

11.  Chalcedony

Chalcedony is a form of microcrystalline quartz that often appears in shades of blue, white, or gray. It is prized for its smooth texture and used in various decorative and spiritual applications. Chalcedony Beads are believed to promote emotional balance and communication.

12.  Chlorite Quartz

Chlorite quartz is a variety of quartz that features inclusions of chlorite, a green mineral that gives the quartz a distinctive green hue. It is considered a powerful stone for healing and is often used in meditation practices.

13.  Citrine

Citrine Beads are a yellow-to-golden variety of quartz. They are often called the "merchant's stone" due to their association with wealth and prosperity. Citrine is a popular gemstone used in jewelry and is believed to bring positivity, abundance, and vitality to its wearer.

14.  Dumortierite Quartz

Dumortierite quartz is a beautiful blue variety known for its deep, rich color. It is often used to enhance mental clarity and promote calmness and patience. Dumortierite quartz is typically found in crystal form, often as a rare inclusion in other quartz varieties.

15.  Elestial Quartz

Elestial quartz is a special form of quartz that features natural etchings or terminations along the crystal. It is often found in clear or smoky varieties and is considered a powerful stone for spiritual growth and transformation.

16.  Faden Quartz

Faden quartz is a unique variety of quartz with a distinct white line running through the center of the crystal. This line is formed naturally and is believed to symbolize unity and connection. Faden quartz is often used to help strengthen the connections between mind, body, and spirit.

17.  Flint

Flint is a variety of microcrystalline quartz that is typically gray to black. Due to its ability to form sharp edges, it has been used throughout history to make tools and weapons. Flint is also used to make fire-starting tools for survival situations.

18.  Gwindel Quartz

Gwindel quartz is a rare and striking quartz that grows in a twisted or spiral shape. These crystals are often smoky or clear and are highly prized by collectors for their unusual appearance. Gwindel quartz is believed to have spiritual significance, particularly in personal growth.

19.  Hematoid Quartz (aka Fire Quartz)

Hematoid quartz, also known as fire quartz, is a variety of quartz that contains hematite inclusions. These inclusions give the quartz a reddish-brown color and a distinctive, fiery appearance. Hematoid quartz is often used for grounding and protection.

20.  Himalayan Quartz

Himalayan quartz is a rare and powerful variety of quartz found in the Himalayan mountains. It is known for its clarity and energy, and it is often used in spiritual practices to promote healing and meditation.

21.  Inclusion Quartz

Inclusion quartz is a type of quartz that contains various inclusions of other minerals or elements, such as chlorite, mica, or hematite. These inclusions often create unique patterns within the crystal, making each piece distinctive.

22.  Jasper

Jasper is a variety of quartz that typically comes in earthy tones, including red, brown, and yellow. Jasper Beads are considered a grounding stone often used in jewelry and decorative items.

23.  Lemurian Quartz

Lemurian quartz is a variety of quartz that is characterized by distinct horizontal striations along the sides of the crystal. These striations are believed to symbolize ancient wisdom and spiritual knowledge.

24.  Lithium Quartz

Lithium quartz is a variety of quartz that contains traces of lithium, a mineral that is known for its calming and soothing effects. This quartz variety is typically found in pink or purple hues and is often used for emotional healing.

25.  Milky Quartz (AKA Snow Quartz)

Milky quartz, also known as snow quartz, is an opaque, typically white variety of quartz. It is believed to promote clarity and emotional healing.

26.  Nirvana Quartz

Nirvana quartz is a rare form of quartz that is often found in geodes. It is characterized by its cloudy, opaque appearance and is believed to promote spiritual enlightenment and peace.

27.  Onyx

Onyx Beads are a variety of chalcedony quartz that is typically black or banded with other colors. They are often used in jewelry and are believed to offer protection and grounding.

28.  Phantom Quartz

Phantom Quartz is a type of quartz that contains a visible "phantom" crystal within it. This crystal appears suspended inside the main crystal, creating a striking visual effect. Phantom quartz is often used for spiritual healing and introspection.

29.  Prase (Prasem Quartz)

Prase, also known as praise quartz, is a green variety typically found in opaque shades. It is believed to bring clarity and calmness to the mind and is often used in meditation.

30.  Prasiolite (aka Green Amethyst or Green Quartz)

Prasiolite is a rare green variety of amethyst. It is believed to be created by heat treatment of amethyst crystals. Prasiolite is used for its calming properties and is a beautiful gemstone.

31.  Rose Quartz

Rose Quartz is a soft pink quartz often used in jewelry and decor. It is known for its association with love and emotional healing.

32. Rutilated Quartz

Rutilated Quartz is a type of quartz that contains needle-like inclusions of rutile, a mineral that is typically golden or reddish. These inclusions create a striking visual effect and are believed to enhance spiritual growth.

33.  Smoky Quartz

Smoky Quartz is a translucent variety of quartz that ranges in color from light gray to deep brown. It is often used for grounding and protection.

34.  Scepter Quartz

Scepter quartz is a variety of quartz with a crystal "scepter" on top of a larger crystal. These crystals are often clear and are prized for their beauty.

35.  Spirit Quartz (Cactus Amethyst)

Spirit quartz, also known as cactus amethyst, is a variety of quartz that grows in clusters resembling cactus spines. It is often used for spiritual growth and healing.

36.  Strawberry Quartz

Strawberry quartz is a pinkish-red variety of quartz that is known for its sweet, vibrant color. It is believed to enhance love and positivity.

37.  Tiger's Eye Quartz

Tiger's Eye Quartz is a chatoyant variety of quartz with a striking golden-brown color. It is often used for grounding and protection.

38.  Titanium Quartz

Titanium quartz is a variety of quartz treated with titanium to give it a rainbow-colored, metallic sheen. It is believed to enhance energy and creativity.

39.  Tourmalinated Quartz

Tourmalinated Quartz beads are a type of quartz that contains tourmaline inclusions. These inclusions, often black, create a striking contrast within the quartz.

At Beads of Cambay, we’re all about bringing you top-notch quartz beads that’ll take your jewelry designs or collections to the next level. Whether you're a hobbyist just starting out or a seasoned pro, we’ve got something for everyone. Our carefully curated selection of Quartz Beads is perfect for any project, and we’re here to help you find exactly what you need.

Dive into our variety of Quartz Crystals Beads, including favorites like Amethyst Beads, Rose Quartz, and Citrine Beads. We only work with trusted suppliers, so you can count on getting high-quality, ethically sourced stones every time. Your jewelry creations deserve the best!

But we don’t stop there. We also offer unique gems like clear quartz, smoky quartz, and even rarer finds like rutilated quartz. These special stones not only look amazing but also have unique metaphysical properties that make them a great addition to any collection.

Shopping at Beads of Cambay is a breeze, thanks to our user-friendly online platform. Plus, you can check out what other customers are saying about their purchases. So, if you're ready to find your next favorite quartz crystal, head over to Beads of Cambay and start exploring today!

1. How Many Types of Quartz Are Available?

There are many types of quartz crystals, with over 30 distinct varieties found in nature, each offering its unique characteristics.

2. What is the Best Way to Identify Quartz Crystals?

Quartz can be identified by its hardness, color, and clarity. It typically has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale and can be found in various colors and forms.

3. Are Quartz and Crystal Quartz the Same?

Yes, crystal quartz is another name for clear quartz, often used to describe high-quality transparent varieties.

4. What Is the Rarest Type of Quartz?

The rarest types of quartz include Ajoite Quartz, Lemurian Quartz, and Nirvana Quartz.

5. Which Is the Most Common Quartz Crystal?

The most common type of quartz is clear quartz, also known as rock crystal. Due to its clarity and versatility, it is widely available and frequently used in jewelry and decorative items. Other common types of quartz crystals include rose quartz and smoky quartz.

All things considered, quartz is a very accessible and adaptable mineral. There are countless types of quartz, offering a variety of colors, shapes, and uses. Whether you are a collector, jewelry maker, or crystal healer, there is a type of quartz for every purpose and taste. Explore the different varieties of quartz crystals to find the one that resonates with you and enjoy their beauty and potential for both spiritual and practical applications.

If you want to know more, visit our blog section or contact us via email at  info@beadsofcambay.com. You can also call us at +1-877-255-5058 to clarify any doubts you may have. Our expert support team is here to help you.