Crystal

Crystal

　　Crystal, also known as transparent quartz ore, was regarded as mysterious in ancient times, both in China and abroad. People believed that crystal was formed from water, and thus often referred to it as “water jade,” “water essence,” “radiant stone,” or “ten-year ice.” In reality, crystal is neither a fossil of ice nor a fossil formed from water. It is a type of crystalline, transparent quartz mineral, whose chemical composition is silicon dioxide (SiO₂). Our region has a wide variety of crystals, which display rich and colorful hues due to impurities. Based on color, they can be categorized into: amethyst, citrine, smoky quartz, rose quartz, and black quartz, among others. By usage, they are divided into four main types: piezoelectric crystal, optical crystal, craft crystal, and fused crystal. Due to its high hardness, high melting point, good temperature resistance, and stable chemical properties, crystal exhibits unique advantages in modern industry. Piezoelectric crystals can be used in radio technology to make resonators, filters, and electric light sources. Flawless crystals can also be used to produce optical instrument lenses. High-quality colored crystals can be processed into gemstones, while craft crystals are used to make eyeglasses or carved figures, birds, animals, flowers, and other craft items—offering a broad market. We have currently identified one large deposit, one medium-sized deposit, three small deposits, and five prospecting sites. The reserves of piezoelectric crystal amount to 7,422.6 kilograms, including 2,099.7 kilograms of C1+C2 grade, and the geological reserves of fused crystal reach 233 tons. Crystal is a mineral of relatively high economic value. Due to its special industrial processing requirements, blasting is prohibited during mining in order to maintain the integrity and avoid damage to the crystals. Crystal is a precious mineral under national unified management, so the development of crystal mines must adhere to unified management and rational utilization. (Garzê)