Natural Crystal (Sphatik) Buying Guide: 7 Expert Tips for the Perfect Stone
Natural Crystal, known in India as the revered Sphatik, is a gemstone prized for its exceptional clarity and purity. As a form of Clear Quartz, it is considered a master healer and an amplifier of energy in both spiritual practices and Vedic astrology. Believed to calm the mind, enhance concentration, and harmonize one’s surroundings, Sphatik is a powerful tool for meditation and a beautiful choice for jewelry. This expert guide provides in-depth knowledge on how to identify a genuine Sphatik, understand its various forms, and buy an authentic crystal with complete confidence.
High-quality Sphatik is prized for its water-like clarity and purity.
Natural Crystal (Sphatik) at a Glance
| Gemstone Family | Quartz |
| Indian Name | Sphatik |
| Primary Uses | Japa Malas, Idols (Shivling, Sri Yantra), Pendants |
| Metaphysical Properties | Clarity, Concentration, Energy Amplification |
| Hardness | 7 on the Mohs Scale (Good for jewelry) |
The Spiritual Significance of Sphatik
Sphatik is highly revered in Hinduism and is associated with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva. It is considered a cooling and calming stone, making it ideal for Japa (chanting mantras) as it helps to focus the mind and reduce body heat during meditation. It is believed to absorb, store, and radiate positive energy, cleansing the aura of the wearer and the surrounding environment.
How to Buy an Original Sphatik Stone: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Evaluate the Clarity and Purity
The most important quality of Sphatik is its clarity. The finest specimens are as clear as water (“water-clear”) and are free of any visible inclusions. However, as it is a natural stone, minor internal features are common.
- Top Quality: Exceptionally transparent with no visible inclusions to the naked eye.
- Good Quality: May have minor internal “veils” or “wisps,” which are natural and often prove its authenticity.
- Lower Quality: Stones that are cloudy, milky, or have significant internal fractures are less valuable.
Step 2: Understand the Different Forms and Shapes
Sphatik is fashioned into various forms, each with a specific purpose:
- Sphatik Mala: A string of 108+1 beads, this is the most popular form, used for Japa and for wearing to keep the mind and body cool.
- Sphatik Idols: Carvings of deities, especially the Sphatik Shivling and Sri Yantra, are considered highly auspicious for home or temple altars (pujas).
- Jewelry: Pendants and bracelets are worn for their astrological and healing benefits.
Step 3: Verify Authenticity (Real Sphatik vs. Glass)
The market is flooded with cheap glass imitations of Sphatik. It is crucial to know how to identify a genuine crystal.
Expert Insight: The most reliable test is the “cool touch.” Real Sphatik is a natural insulator and will feel cool to the touch, even in a warm room. Glass, being a conductor, will quickly warm up to your body temperature. A genuine sphatik stone will also exhibit higher durability than glass.
Additionally, look for minor natural inclusions under magnification; glass is often perfectly flawless or may contain tiny air bubbles, which are absent in natural quartz.
Step 4: Understand Pricing Factors
The sphatik stone price is generally affordable, but it varies based on quality.
- Clarity: The more transparent and inclusion-free the crystal, the higher the price.
- Size and Weight: Larger, high-clarity pieces are rarer and more valuable.
- Craftsmanship: Intricately carved idols or perfectly calibrated mala beads will command a higher price.
Step 5: How to Care for and Energize Your Sphatik
Proper care ensures your crystal remains pure and energetically charged.
Care and Cleansing: Clean your Sphatik with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. To cleanse it energetically, you can soak it in saltwater overnight (on a full moon night is considered best) and then rinse with pure water.
Step 6: Demand a Certificate of Authenticity
For significant purchases, especially large carvings or high-quality malas, a certificate from a gemological lab can provide peace of mind by verifying that the material is natural quartz and not glass.
Step 7: Purchase from a Reputable Seller
Always buy from a trusted dealer who is transparent about the quality and origin of their Sphatik. A reputable seller will be able to answer your questions and will stand by the authenticity of their products.
Why Trust Ratna Gems for Your Natural Crystal?
At Ratna Gems, we are committed to providing authentic, high-quality spiritual and astrological items with complete transparency. We are your trusted source because we offer:
- Certified Authentic Sphatik: Every crystal product is sourced ethically and comes with a Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee.
- Transparent and Honest Pricing: We offer competitive prices for genuine Sphatik with full disclosure on quality.
- Unmatched Customer Support: Our experts are here to guide you, and our 7-day return policy ensures your complete satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Sphatik Mala used for?
A Sphatik Mala is primarily used for Japa (chanting mantras). Its cooling properties help maintain concentration and calm the mind during meditation. It is also worn as a necklace to keep the body’s energy balanced and purified.
How can I tell if my Sphatik is real or just glass?
The “cool touch” test is a good indicator; real Sphatik will feel noticeably cool against your skin. Also, look for natural, wispy inclusions under magnification. Glass is often perfectly clear or contains small, round air bubbles, which are not found in natural quartz.
Why does my Sphatik feel cold?
Natural quartz crystal has high thermal conductivity, meaning it can dissipate heat from your hand quickly, which is why it feels cool to the touch. Glass does not have this property to the same extent.
How do I energize my Sphatik?
To energize or “charge” your Sphatik, first cleanse it with saltwater, then rinse with pure water. You can then leave it in the light of a full moon overnight or offer prayers and chant mantras over it to imbue it with positive vibrations.
