Crystal Buying Guide: To Go Au Naturel Or Not?

Crystal Buying Guide

Crystals have long played an important role in the fashion industry. In fact, many fashion designers use crystals to adorn their garments. That being said, having one's own collection of these baubles will not only enhance an outfit, but also these can be a good investment as some crystals, like precious stones increase in value in the future.

Crystal Types

There are two types of crystals currently sold in the market - natural and manmade crystals. Natural crystals are formed and mined from the earth and are often called as gemstone crystals. In its natural state, these gemstones are surrounded by rock formations and loose stones tend to be cheaper than the ones that are already altered and polished. Some crystals can be expensive especially if they are rare or the stone's features pass the standards set by the industry. Diamonds, garnets, rubies, amethysts and citrines are just some examples of these gemstones. Pink diamonds are examples of expensive gemstones because they are rare and can fetch quite a sum even when the stone weighs less than one carat.

Manmade crystals are those that are cut from fine glass or leaded glass. Manmade crystals are often cheaper than natural stones; however, cut glass crystals can also fetch a higher price depending on the crystal's features. Swarovski crystals are perfect examples of such manmade stones. They are highly regarded because the crystals are cut perfectly and the added Aurora Borealis effect gives the stones a rainbow effect that normally only natural stones have. Swarovski crystals can also fetch high price especially limited edition ones and they can even command a higher price than ordinary natural gemstones.

What to Buy

Choosing the stone that one should purchase is based on budget and preferences. Many opt for manmade crystals because not only are they cheaper, but also because of machine cut thus all the stones have the same identical facets. These are important for fashion designers who want the stones to reflect light in a certain way and enhance their pieces. Some manmade crystals are also considered as collectibles especially limited collections released by the Swarovski's company. For those who are thinking of investments then opting for a Swarovski can be an excellent choice.

Some people prefer natural stones because of its unique characteristics. These stones are formed in the earth and thus, one is not sure of the growth of the crystals. The stones may have a symmetrical shape while others grow irregularly or in clusters. Some buyers highly price irregularly shaped stones as they are unique and can fetch a higher price especially among collectors. Some natural stones are also sold cheaper because they are found aplenty and often these stones are used for fashion jewelries such as amethyst earrings or ruby pendants.



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