Precious stones aren’t the only source of highly attractive jewelry used today. Semi-precious stones and even crystals are available in a variety of settings from plated metal to wire and hemp string. Herkimer diamonds are actually crystals mined in several small areas of New York and used for a variety of different applications. It is interesting to learn about the various qualities of the misnamed diamonds including the crystal shape, and composition as well as how they got their name and how they are used. Armed with this information you’ll have a better idea of where and how to purchase Herkimer diamonds to add to your collection.
Quartz Crystals Not Diamonds
Herkimer diamonds are really quartz crystals found in New York. Sometime during the late 1700s, Miners who found the crystals began calling them diamonds due to the sparkly nature of the minerals and their resemblance to the more valuable genuine stones. Perhaps they were also hoping to cash in on unsuspecting tourists to the area. Officially Herkimer diamonds are called “Little Falls Diamonds” referring to the name of the dolostone in which they are found. It is estimated that the Little Falls dolostone is over 500 millions years old. One of the reasons these “pretend diamonds” are so sought after is the rarity of their double-terminated shape.
Double-Terminated Crystals
Herkimer diamonds are famous for their double-terminated formation. Double-terminated simply means that the crystals form while hanging freely, resulting in two pointed ends. Mineral enthusiasts find the double pointed ends more beautiful and more desirable than crystals with only one naturally faceted end. Believers of mystical powers residing in crystals feel that the double points allow energy to flow more freely through the stones while scientific studies have actually shown this mineral to be effective in transferring energy when put under pressure. It is easy to see why many different groups of people would find Herkimer diamonds valuable.
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