How To Spot A Crystal Faker From The Real Deal

The connection a person has to a crystal is something that can feel almost magnetic at times, and the feeling of finding that crystal prism that matches you completely is indescribable.

Some crystal experts believe so strongly in this connection that they will say that you do not in fact choose a crystal, but instead, the crystal chooses you, drawing you in with a harmonic resonance that both you and it share.

It’s a beautiful moment, one that can be spoiled by the unscrupulous acts of crystal fakers. Here is what you can do to spot a fraud from an authentic choice.

Why Are Fakes Bad?

Whether it is a chemically identical duplicate or an outright fraud, crystal fakes are missing those intangible qualities that make a crystal such an important part of so many people’s lives.

By themselves, synthetic crystals have a place; artificial diamonds are vitally important in industry for example. But what fraudsters will often do is claim they have a providence they simply do not.

However, what is worse than a lab-grown crystal is an outright fake, made using cheaper stones, glass or even plastic, presented as a real stone using dyes and glazes to give it the colour of an authentic piece.

For people who want a crystal to help with a difficult part of their life, this act of deception is particularly disgusting, but there are ways to tell a fake from a real stone.

Choose A Reputable Seller

The easiest way to make sure you’re getting the best, most authentic crystals is to only buy from people who know best.

They will be exceedingly happy to prove the authenticity of a crystal, with evidence of procurement and providence, perhaps even some stories of the relationships they have with suppliers. After all, this connection to the earth is why crystals matter in the first place.

Watch Out For A Name

Whilst some crystals do have multiple names, most will sound intuitively familiar, and for the hundreds of names that can get lost in the shuffle, there are many reputable sources of authentic crystal names, types and properties.

If you notice an exciting, exotic name that sounds less familiar, however, watch out. This crystal may be mislabeled or could be a complete fabrication.

Even if it is the former, treat such a seller with suspicion.

Too Good To Be True

The most effective tactic of the faker is to take advantage of the opposite of sticker shock. Whilst an unexpectedly high price can provide a very visceral negative reaction, a shockingly low price can cause someone to act on impulse and buy it.

Authentic crystals are potentially thousands of years old, formed through an exceptionally long natural process before being mined and refined, which makes them rare and valuable as a consequence.

If it seems too good to be true, it most commonly is and you should at least be mindful of this.

Similarly, if the shape seems too perfect, too symmetrical and without any natural flaws, with a colouration that is almost uncannily uniform across the stone, there is a chance that it has been artificially dyed.