Enhance Your Crystal Knowledge

Enhance Your Crystal Knowledge

At Ignis & Aqua, we want you to feel confident and informed in your crystal journey. Our goal is to provide a space where you can explore details about the stones and items we offer, helping you make choices that feel right for your collection, your practice, or simply your appreciation of natural beauty.

Trade Names vs. Geological Classifications

·      Why we use them: In our shop (and on social media), you’ll often see crystals listed by their common trade names. Many people recognize stones this way, so it helps us connect with more crystal enthusiasts.

·      The controversy: Within the mineral world, there’s ongoing debate about whether trade names should be used. We understand this concern, and for that reason, we also provide information on geological classifications for those who want to dig deeper.

·      Our stance: We’re not geologists, and we don’t claim to be experts in formal classification. Instead, we share what we’ve learned, link to reputable sources when possible, and encourage you to continue your own research if accuracy in mineral science is your priority.

Our Approach to Crystals

Transparency matters to us. While we believe in the metaphysical properties of the items we sell and will often share that perspective, we also honor other reasons people may be drawn to crystals.

Some collectors focus on:

• Metaphysical & spiritual uses (energy, healing, intention-setting)
• Geological interest (the science and formation of minerals)
• Aesthetic appeal (unique patterns, colors, and beauty)

All of these approaches are valid, and we respect each person’s connection to crystals. Our beliefs are our own, and we share them openly while recognizing that your journey may look different — and that’s part of what makes this community so vibrant.

Crystal Enhancements

Some crystals are treated or enhanced to bring out certain colors or effects. Examples include:

• Heat-treating (to deepen color – seen often in Amethyst and other quartz as well as others) Example, often heat-treated Amethyst is sold as Citrine, which is very misleading.
• Dyeing (common in agates but also in other minerals)
• Aura coating (adding a metallic sheen)

 

When we know that a crystal has been enhanced, we’ll make every effort to be transparent about that, so you know what you’re purchasing. We also will take steps to do our best to avoid selling a crystal that has been enhanced as another crystal type.

For example, Amethyst can be colored brown or yellow and sold as Citrine by many places, but Amethyst is never Citrine no matter what enhancements are made. So, if we chose to offer something like this in our shop, we would sell it as heat-treated Amethyst.

Manmade & Synthetic Crystals

Some items you may see in the crystal market are entirely manmade rather than naturally occurring. Examples include:

• Lab-grown crystals – Chemically identical to natural crystals but created in a lab. Often used for quartz, sapphire, or other gemstones.
• Synthetic gemstones – Created to mimic natural stones like ruby, emerald, or spinel. Can be difficult to distinguish without testing.
• Glass or resin “crystals” – Sometimes shaped or colored to resemble natural minerals but entirely artificial.

 

We tend to steer away from manmade items, but some customers may want them due to popularity or other reasons, so there may be times we offer these items. When we offer manmade or synthetic items, we’ll always be transparent about it, so you know exactly what you’re purchasing.

 

Our Commitment to You

We want to be clear: our goal is never to “trick” anyone or overinflate prices. Sadly, the crystal and metaphysical market can sometimes leave buyers feeling uncertain about whether they’re getting something authentic or fairly priced.

 

At Ignis & Aqua, we strive to:

• Offer quality items we’d be proud to keep in our own collections
• Price fairly and reasonably, reflecting both the value of the material and the care that goes into sourcing and preparing it
• Be transparent about names, properties, and classifications by providing resources to help you research so you can make informed choices that feel right for you. (See the list below for the current links we recommend to start your knowledge journey).
• Remain open to feedback, admit when we’re wrong, and share new information as we learn it

Learn More About Crystals
We like to share resources that can help you learn more about the crystals and minerals in your collection. Some sites offer detailed geological classifications, scientific explanations, and helpful guides for beginners:

• Mindat.org – The world’s largest mineral database, offering verified geological information.
• Gem Society – Explains gemstone classifications and other information behind them.
• AllCrystal – Provides an easy-to-follow guide to minerals, gemstones, crystals, and stones.

Disclaimer: We share these links for educational purposes. While we aim to provide helpful information, Ignis & Aqua is not responsible for content on external sites, and some may include metaphysical or pseudoscientific information. Use them as guides, and feel free to explore further on your own!