Quartz is known as `sphatik` in Sanskrit and `billor` in Persian. It is one of the most commonplace minerals in the earth`s crust. It is available in the shape of pencils, big and tiny pieces. Quartz is coloured like snow. It is transparent, emanating splendour, refinement and smoothness. Its nature is cold. It is used for making idols, yantras and numerous other items.
According to astrology it is related to Venus. Quartz is an alternate for diamond. It possesses the same qualities of a diamond, but is priced much less. Therefore it can easily be worn without reluctance.
In present days, rock crystal has become extremely important because of its piezoelectric attribute. When crystal quartz is cut in an exact angle to its axis and subjected to mechanical pressure, it emits minute electrical charges at the end of the axes and the crystal expands and contracts, which sets it into constant mechanical vibration. This steady rate of vibration makes quartz functional for radio and television transmission, telephone and cable equipments, radar, depth-sounding, apparatus, anti-submarine devices, clocks, resonators, range making lenses, prisms, and optical instruments.
Quartz gems are popular among gem therapists, because they produce electrochemical balance in the body chemistry of the wearer, eradicates nervousness, and makes one composed and concentrating. Using a rosary made from rock crystal helps in concentration, cools the body, and composes the mind. It is helpful for deriving knowledge of the past, present and future when used for concentration. Wearing a crystal mala ensures a healthy and undisturbed sleep.
In Hinduism crystal holds a substantial position. It is also believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati (Shakti) live in this stone. Therefore statues are built after cutting and chiselling the crystal, because there is no need to vivify its statues and it is fittingly worthy to be worshipped. It can also be noted that idols made of other stones are forbidden to be kept in a temple or at home. Without life induction, the idols made of other stones are not used for religious rites and prayers. Therefore crystal has the nobility to be worshipped. And that is why Shiva linga, idols and Shree Yantra etc., are manufactured from it, so that this may be worshipped without life induction. Crystal garlands (mala) are used to count mantras while worshipping Goddess Laxmi, Durga, Saraswati and other Goddesses. Tripursundari`s yantra (Shree Yantra), engraved on sphatik (quartz) is regarded the best of all. Opulence and salvation are two dissimilar aims in human life and through crystal "Shree Yantra", people who meditate and worship achieve both these aims by themselves involuntarily.
Crystal bead is used for concentration (Tratak) and other devotional activities. A person who meditates by focussing his mind on a crystal bead is aware of all the future incidents in advance logically. Therefore, crystal is itself a priceless and godly element.
