What is Druzy

by Judy Larson
Druzy (spelling the retail world most commonly uses), drusy and druse (spelling of the scientific name and also the German word for geode) are all terms used to describe crystals that cover the surface of the interior of a void within a mineral/rock. These crystals can range in size from smaller than a grain of sugar to larger than a man.
We generally think of druzy crystals forming within a geode. Because of the many smooth flat termination surfaces of the crystals, when light hits them, they look like sparkling sugar or sparkling snow in the sun. Druzy quartz geodes can be found worldwide, but only a small fraction are hollow and contain crystals.
I gave this geode to my daughter about 30 years ago, at the beginning of her foray into rock collecting. It was broken open by last year her 5-year-old daughter. Whoopee, another rock fanatic generation! A few of the pieces could be made into jewelry after a bit of edge and back refining.
The outer surfaces of these druzy gemstones, purchased from wirejewelry, have already been cleaned up and the cut surfaces polished.
Pro Tip: Research where you live to find out where geodes can most commonly be found and go geode hunting. Thundereggs are similar to geodes and also fun to search for.
Judy Larson's What is Druzy - , Stones, , what is druzy
Judy Larson's What is Druzy - , Stones, , what is druzy
How do druzy crystals form?
Water seeps into a cavity in a rock formation and evaporates, leaving behind the minerals it brought with it (think lime scale around your water faucets after water drops dry). This happens over and over, creating the crystals, some with beautiful color, like amethyst. When the mineral content of the water changes, layers of different color can happen. Many minerals can form as druzy crystals, but this is rare. The majority of druzy in the retail world is quartz.
From the collection of Kat Mann, purchased from wirejewelry.com, magnet glued to the back
Judy Larson's What is Druzy - How do druzy crystals form?, Stones, , what is druzy
Judy Larson's What is Druzy - How do druzy crystals form?, Stones, , what is druzy
How do clear quartz crystals get their color?
Most geode crystals are not of gem quality, being off-white to dirty grey in color and opaque with little sparkle. Therefore, druzy quartz crystals are typically treated in some manner.

Irradiation and heat treatments can be used on clear quartz to create color. However, not all clear quartz will accept those treatments to create color in the gemstone. Do not be concerned about irradiation treatments used on gemstones. If you own a colored diamond, it was most likely irradiated. For the safety of public health, the NRC (U. S, Nuclear Regulatory Commission) regulates the distribution of irradiated gemstones. Several months after the gemstone treatment, any measurable radiation had decayed and the gemstone is safe to use and wear.
Chemical vapor deposition is a treatment where precious metals (gold, silver, titanium, and platinum) coat the surface of the crystals. Sometimes the cut pieces are dyed before treatment, sometimes not. Titanium can be used to coat druzy crystals, creating a bright metallic finish. (Private collection, Judy Larson)

Many of the druzy quartz gemstones we use in our jewelry are dyed in some manner.
(Private collection, Judy Larson, purchased from wirejewelry.com)
Judy Larson's What is Druzy - How do clear quartz crystals get their color?, Stones, , what is druzy
Judy Larson's What is Druzy - How do clear quartz crystals get their color?, Stones, , what is druzy
What are the best jewelry pieces to use druzy stones in?
Druzy crystals are fragile compared to a larger gemstone of the same mineral composition. To test for structural integrity of a druzy stone, run your thumbnail over the surface of the stone. If crystals are dislodged, it is best not to use the stone in a piece of jewelry.

If a druzy cabochon is to be used in a ring or bracelet, it must be well protected because the small crystals can easily break away from the host stone when the jewelry piece is bumped against something. Earrings, necklaces, pendants and pins/brooches are the best pieces to feature druzy gemstones.
How is the value of a druzy determined?
As with other gemstones, druzy quality is determined by color, weight and clarity. The size of the crystals and the evenness of the crystals coating of the host stone are other factors determining value.
How should druzy jewelry be cared for?
Best advice for wearing and caring for druzy gemstone jewelry-treat the jewelry like fine pearls-last on, first off, never worn in water.

Druzy gemstones should never be buffed. Any applied coating could be removed, as well as crystals dislodged and broken off. Use a mild detergent and water solution-no toothbrush-to clean a druzy piece and dry immediately. If an ultra-sonic jewelry cleaning system will be used, test the piece before setting it. The structural integrity of the crystals may not withstand the cleaning process. Many people, however, report good results using ultra-sonic cleaners.
How can geode crystals be dyed at home?
You broke open your own geode and have a few pieces you want to set into jewelry. Or the interior is so pretty, but you want a bit of color. Research on the internet will turn up blogs and videos on how to dye geode crystals. I used alcohol ink on several pieces of jewelry to be worn only indoors. Be aware, though, that alcohol inks can bleach out quickly in the sun so may not stand the test of time. Liquid fabric dye recipes to dye geode crystals work better.

If you plan to sell any of the pieces you dye, whether in jewelry or not, you must disclose this to the customer.

Materials

24x20mm Polished Druzy
DRY-8636
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $24.00
  • Gold Club Price: $18.00
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24x20mm Polished Druzy
DRY-8463
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $24.00
  • Gold Club Price: $18.00
Add to Bag
22x20mm Polished Druzy
DRY-8461
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $22.00
  • Gold Club Price: $16.50
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23x22mm Polished Druzy
DRY-8540
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $22.00
  • Gold Club Price: $16.50
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Tools

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  • Category: Stones
  • Technique(s): General Education