The special quality of iris rock crystal is the rainbow hidden inside: as light passes through the crystal, the inner fractures break it into soft colour.
What is iris rock crystal?
Rock crystal is colourless, transparent quartz (SiO₂), used for jewellery since ancient times. The iris variety is heated and then cooled very quickly; the sudden change creates tiny internal fractures that split light into rainbow hues. Tradition knows rock crystal as the 'master crystal', regarded as an amplifier of clarity and intention.
Good to know
The beads measure about 8 mm, strung on an elastic cord with an inner radius of around 6.5 cm. The internal fractures are a natural feature of the iris variety, not flaws – they are what create the rainbow play.
Care
Wipe with a soft cloth. Avoid hard knocks, as the stone can be more delicate along its internal fractures.