Rough quartz crystal, not a diamond
Rough quartz crystal, not a diamond · Rough elongated crystal form, unpolished
Uncut raw crystal (Not Applicable) Cut
Carat
Cannot be precisely estimated visually without density/volume measurements, appears to be several grams
Color
Colorless with minor surface staining (matrix remnants)
Clarity
Included (contains natural internal fractures and mineral inclusions)
Shape
Rough elongated crystal form, unpolished
Overall Assessment
The specimen shown in the image is a rough quartz crystal rather than a diamond. It exhibits natural prismatic growth striations and surface staining. While visually interesting as a raw mineral specimen, it lacks the hardness, optical properties, and monetary value of a genuine diamond.
Cut Quality
Uncut raw crystal (Not Applicable)
Brilliance
Low due to lack of standard facet angles and rough exterior
Fire
Minimal dispersion due to material and unpolished state
Scintillation
Limited, showing reflections mainly from natural crystal faces
Proportions
Elongated prismatic crystal habit typical of quartz
Symmetry
Natural crystal symmetry showing striated prism faces
Polish
Raw, unpolished natural crystal surfaces
Fluorescence
Undetermined without UV testing
Inclusions
Internal fractures, feather-like inclusions, and possible fluid or mineral inclusions
Blemishes
Surface etching, natural growth features, and surface dirt or matrix staining
Origin
Natural terrestrial mineral specimen (likely quartz, frequently found in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins)
Treatment Detection
No signs of artificial treatments; appears entirely natural
Estimated Value
Nominal value as a raw mineral specimen, very low compared to diamond
Certification Estimate
Not typically certified by major diamond grading labs (GIA/IGI); evaluated as a mineral specimen
Investment Potential
None as an investment; primarily a collector or hobbyist specimen
Similar Diamonds
None, as this is quartz (silicon dioxide), not diamond (carbon)
Setting Suggestions
Wire-wrapped in sterling silver or gold-filled wire for raw crystal jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals and hard impacts
Interesting Facts
Many novice prospectors mistake clear quartz crystals (often called Herkimer diamonds depending on the locality) for actual diamonds due to their transparent prismatic shape.