Crystal – Santander, Colombia

Colombian crystal from the Santander region is valued for its purity and quality structure. This locality is known for producing high quality crystals that are often colorless, but may contain subtle inclusions, giving them a unique character.

Properties of Santander crystal:

• Colour: Usually colorless, sometimes with subtle inclusions adding subtle hues of color.
• Clarity: High transparency with minimal inclusions.
• Shape: Typically has a hexagonal prismatic form, with a smooth surface and good lustre.

Significance and Uses:

• Jewellery: its purity and transparency make it ideal for making high quality jewellery.
• Collecting: sought after by collectors for its rarity.

Geographical and geological characteristics:

Santander is located in the northern part of Colombia and is known for its rich geological environment, which contributes to the formation of high quality minerals and gems. The area is characterised by sedimentary rocks, which is less common than in other areas where crystal is extracted from igneous rocks.