17 Misleading Names for Crystals... and pretty glass (video examples).

Crystals have fascinated humanity for millennia, prized for their beauty, energy, and alleged metaphysical properties. But as the crystal market has boomed, so has the creativity in naming them, often leading to whack, misleading, or completely fabricated terms. If you're someone who's captivated by crystals or even a seasoned collector, you've likely encountered fabricated marketing names that sound intriguing but are far from genuine.

Distinctions Between Natural, Treated, and Lab-Created Crystals

Before we jump into the amusing world of misnamed crystals, it's essential to understand the distinctions between natural, treated, and lab-created stones. Natural crystals are mined from the earth and remain in their original state, though they may be cut or polished. Treated crystals have been altered in some way, whether through dyeing, heating, or coating, to enhance their appearance or colour. Lab-created crystals, on the other hand, are synthesised in laboratories but often mimic the properties of natural stones.

These distinctions matter because they inform how a crystal looks, behaves, and is valued. Unfortunately, some sellers obscure these differences, offering lab-created or treated stones under fancy names that imply they're rare or natural, leading to confusion among buyers.

Scientific vs. Commercial Terms

The scientific classification of crystals is based on their chemical composition and crystalline structure. For example, quartz (SiO₂) comes in many varieties, like amethyst or clear, but its molecular makeup remains consistent. In contrast, the commercial terms used in the crystal trade can often be misleading or downright whack. Some names suggest ancient origins or mystical powers when in reality, they're modern marketing inventions to boost sales.

Misused and Whack Crystal Names

African Turquoise

SASARAworld •African Turquoise
Despite its name, this isn't turquoise. It's a form of jasper or dyed chalcedony.

Aqua Aura Quartz

This is quartz that has been artificially coated with metal to give it a vibrant blue colour.

Azeztulite

A name with no scientific basis, it’s often sold at high prices based on metaphysical claims.

Angel Aura / Angel Quartz

Similar to Aqua Aura, these are often quartz coated with metals like titanium or platinum, giving them an iridescent sheen.

Apache Tears

Though a legitimate volcanic glass, the term is used loosely and often misapplied to less valuable stones.

Atlantisite

A blend of serpentine and stichtite, it’s marketed with a mystical name that suggests Atlantean origins.

Bumblebee Jasper

Not a true jasper, it’s a mix of volcanic matter, often containing arsenic, making it a poor choice for skin contact and said to have terrible mining practices.

Caribbean Calcite

A relatively new name for a blend of blue calcite and white aragonite, its exotic name is purely for marketing.

Crocodile Jasper / Crack Jasper / Dalmatian Jasper

These "jasper" names are largely misnomers; most aren’t even jasper but other forms of stone like rhyolite or granite.

Fairy Opal / Firefly Quartz

Often just low-quality opal or quartz that has been enhanced with synthetic treatments.

Fruit Jasper

SASARAworld • Sabalgarh Marble / Fruit Jasper Heart
This sounds fun, but it's actually Sabalgarh Marble and is believed to be used during the Mughal Empire to adorn palaces.

Herkimer Diamond

Not a diamond at all, but a clear quartz found in Herkimer, New York.

Mystic Quartz / Mystic Merlinite

Typically quartz that has undergone a surface treatment to give it a rainbow effect. Merlinite is often a mix of quartz and feldspar.

Opalite

Despite its lovely iridescence, Opalite is glass and not a natural opal.

Pink Amethyst

This is a relatively new term for a type of light-coloured amethyst, but some forms are dyed or enhanced.

Pork Stone / Mermaid Stone / Unicorn Stone

These whimsical names have no scientific backing and are simply created to appeal to novelty.

Super 7

A blend of minerals, including quartz, amethyst, and smoky quartz, but there’s nothing particularly "super" about it beyond its marketing appeal.

SASARAworld Says

While it's easy to get swept up in the wannabe-magic and marketing allure of certain crystals, it's essential to approach crystal buying with discernment. Many of these fanciful terms are designed to create the illusion of rarity or mysticism, making something commonplace seem exotic. Understanding the true nature of the stones you’re purchasing, whether natural, treated, or lab-created, can prevent disappointment and ensure that you're investing in the right pieces for your collection.

If you don’t particularly care about authenticity and simply like the look of a stone, that's fine - you do you, and after all some are very pretty. However, many people purchase crystals under the assumption that they’re getting the real thing and pay premium prices based on these expectations. 

As sellers have a responsibility to be transparent about what we're offering. Misleading buyers by using fancy or fabricated names not only undermines trust but also takes advantage of people who are paying for something they believe is authentic. Responsible selling and informed buying can go a long way in maintaining the integrity of the crystal market.

H/t to Ms. Burns from Forever In Wonderland and Dannielle and Luke at SaltShack for the posts on social openly discussing this topic. Full transparency, we do have two of the above mentioned in our store; opalite and Sabalgarh Marble and we're always upfront about what they. We believe that honesty and open dialogue in the crystal community help us all make better, more informed choices.

Now time for for some memes or non-aura coated retail therapy.

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