How to Tell if Strawberry Quartz is Real

Strawberry Quartz is a stunning gemstone that refers to quartz specimens found in red or dark pink colors. Their color comes from mineral inclusions that can be seen by the naked eye. These inclusions come from a range of minerals, such as flakes of Lepidolite, Algurite, or Hematite. When light reflects from these particles, the pink or red color of the Strawberry Quartz is witnessed.

These inclusions often look like seeds in the stone, which is the reason behind the crystal’s name. 

Unlike most crystals, the name Strawberry Quartz is actually a marketing term. Geologists do not use the name to refer to these stones. 

As Strawberry Quartz is a rare stone, there are a number of fake versions on the market. In this article, we will look at real vs fake Strawberry Quartz, how much Strawberry Quartz is worth, and Strawberry Quartz meaning and uses.

What Does Real Strawberry Quartz Look Like?

Real Strawberry Quartz comes in red or pink shades. The inclusions in the stone appear as flecks that we can see. 

When wanting to learn the difference between real vs fake Strawberry Quartz, it is helpful to understand the characteristics of real Strawberry Quartz:

• 7 on the Mohs hardness scale.
• Usually found in China, Russia, Mexico, and Brazil.
• Fractures are often seen through the Quartz.
• Transparent.

Types of Strawberry Quartz

There are two main types of Strawberry Quartz. Let’s look at the two, their appearance, and their spiritual properties. 

How To Tell If Strawberry Quartz Is Real

Most fake Strawberry Quartz sold is made out of plastic or glass. This means that there are easy enough tests you can perform on the specimen to find out if it is fake or real. 

Some Strawberry Quartz specimens have inclusions that are really close together, meaning they appear completely red or pink. They can be confused with Rose Quartz. Dyed Quartz will sometimes be sold as Strawberry Quartz. 

Let’s look at the different tests you can do to work out if your Strawberry Quartz is real. 

Test 1: Quartz Test

When you want to know if your Strawberry Quartz is real, the first thing you should do is a Quartz test. Quartz is 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. This means that certain items that are weaker on the scale will not scratch a real Quartz.

Take a steel nail to the Strawberry Quartz. This is a 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning it is harder than glass but not as hard as Quartz. Carefully drag it across your Quartz. If it scratches it, it is not a real Strawberry Quartz. 

Test 2: Examination for Dye 

Even if you know the specimen you have is real Quartz, that does not mean it is a real Strawberry Quartz. This is because, as Strawberry Quartz is rare, sellers will dye other Quartz to sell it as Strawberry Quartz. 

The next stage of testing is to examine your gemstone for dye. Look in the cracks of the crystal. If the color in the cracks is deeper than the rest of the stone, it has probably been treated by a dye. 

Test 3: Examination for Inclusions

As Strawberry Quartz can be confused with Rose Quartz, it is necessary to know how to distinguish between the two. Despite some real Strawberry Quartz having heavy inclusions, they still will be seen with a loupe. 

Take a loupe or magnifying glass to your specimen and examine it for inclusions. If you cannot see any, it is not a real Strawberry Quartz and is probably a Rose Quartz. 

How to Spot Fake Strawberry Quartz

A variety of fake specimens are commonly sold as Strawberry Quartz. Dyed Quartz or Chalcedony are often sold as Strawberry Quartz. Glass and plastic treated to look like Strawberry Quartz are also sold under this name. 

If you want to know how to spot fake Strawberry Quartz, it is important to be educated on what the real gemstone looks like. The inclusions in the crystal will be irregular and uneven. They also will be different colors. A real Strawberry Quartz will also not be shiny (unless it has been treated). They will not have any bubbles in the stone. If there are bubbles, the specimen is glass. 

How Much is Strawberry Quartz Worth

Strawberry Quartz is a rarer Quartz crystal, so it is sold at a higher price. Real Strawberry Quartz costs around $5 per carat. 

Strawberry Quartz Meaning and Uses

Strawberry Quartz is a fantastic healing crystal that works to open up the Heart Chakra. Its calming vibrations soothe both the mind and body and attracts love into our lives. 

Strawberry Quartz has the powerful amplification properties found in Clear Quartz. Its energy is light and filled with joy, lifting up those who work with it. It allows you to see the good in the world, dispelling apathy and sadness.

FAQs

• Is Strawberry Quartz a real stone?

Yes, Strawberry Quartz is a real stone. It is a Clear Quartz with mineral inclusions that creates its color.

• Does Strawberry Quartz fade in sunlight?

No, Strawberry Quartz will not fade in the sunlight. 

• What’s the difference between Rose Quartz and Strawberry Quartz?

Rose Quartz is lighter than Strawberry Quartz. It is also a solid color, whereas Strawberry Quartz has mineral inclusions noticeable by the naked eye.