Understanding Stone Classifications
A Guide to the Scientific Properties Behind Every ÉLYON Stone
At ÉLYON, we don’t just offer stones—we reveal their essence. Each specimen carries a distinct scientific identity that defines its rarity, strength, and sacred energy. This guide demystifies the classification terms we use—so you can appreciate the silent prestige behind each piece.
Mineral Class
Identifies the stone’s chemical family—such as silicates, oxides, or carbonates.
Example: Quartz (like Rose Quartz and Amethyst) is a silicate. Hematite is an iron oxide.
Crystal System
The geometric structure formed as the stone grows. It reflects symmetry, alignment, and internal order.
Example: Diamond and Pyrite both form in a cubic system. Emerald and Aquamarine grow in a hexagonal system.
Chemical Composition
The elemental formula that reveals what the stone is made of—and often hints at its energetic signature.
Example: Lapis Lazuli’s intense blue comes from lazurite [(Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(S,SO)₄].
Hardness (Mohs Scale)
A 1–10 scale measuring how resistant a stone is to scratches. A higher number means greater durability.
Example: Diamond ranks a perfect 10—unmatched in hardness. Onyx falls between 6.5 and 7—strong, yet refined.
Luster
Describes how light reflects off the surface. It may appear glassy, silky, metallic, or matte.
Example: Tiger’s Eye has a silky luster. Obsidian reflects light with a vitreous, almost mirror-like glow.
Transparency
Measures how much light passes through the stone: transparent, translucent, or opaque.
Example: Amethyst is translucent with a soft inner glow. Black Onyx is typically opaque, offering a deep, solid presence.
Specific Gravity
Indicates the stone’s density relative to water—how “heavy” it feels for its size.
Example: Hematite has a high specific gravity (≈5.3), giving it a powerful weight. Quartz feels noticeably lighter at around 2.6.
Primary Origin(s)
Geographic source where the stone naturally forms with exceptional quality and purity.
Example: Afghanistan is known for elite-grade Lapis Lazuli. Madagascar produces some of the world’s most pristine Rose Quartz.
Learn More
For those interested in exploring the scientific foundations behind mineral classification and crystal systems, we recommend visiting Mindat.org. It is the world’s largest public database of mineral data, used by geologists, gemologists, and research institutions worldwide. While ÉLYON selects its stones based on both visual rarity and spiritual resonance, we also respect the precision of mineralogical science—and align our classifications with global standards.