Enhydro Crystals : Water Inclusions in Crystals

Enhydro crystals are a fascinating type of crystal that contain pockets of water trapped within their structure. These water inclusions can be static or even move freely within the crystal when tilted, creating a mesmerizing effect.

The water in enhydro crystals is believed to be ancient, some dating back millions of years. It is thought to have been trapped within the crystal as it grew in a hydrothermal environment.

Geological Formation

The entrapment of aqueous inclusions within a crystal lattice typically occurs during the crystal growth process within a hydrothermal environment. Hydrothermal fluids, consisting of heated water and dissolved minerals, play a crucial role in facilitating crystal growth. As the mineral precipitates from the solution, liquid water along with some dissolved gases can become trapped within imperfections or cavities in the crystal lattice. Over geological time scales, these inclusions become isolated and remain encapsulated within the host mineral.

Polished Enhydro Quartz crystal

Enhydro Crystals Types

There are various types of enhydro crystals, but the most common host mineral is quartz. This is because quartz is naturally clear, allowing for a good view of the trapped water inclusions inside. Other minerals can also form enhydro crystals, but they may be less common or commercially viable due to factors like clarity or durability. Here are some of the different types of enhydro crystals:

Enhydro Quartz: water inclusions in quartz.

Enhydro Quartz

Quartz is one of the most common minerals to form enhydro crystals. These enhydros often appear as clear quartz crystals with fluid-filled cavities inside. The trapped water may exhibit movement or bubble formation when the crystal is tilted or heated.

Polished Enhydro Amethyst

Enhydro Amethyst

Enhydro amethyst is a stunning variety that features the beautiful purple hues of amethyst alongside moveable water inclusions.

Enhydro Agate, water inclusions in agate.

Enhydro Chalcedony (Agate)

These microcrystalline varieties of quartz can also form enhydro pockets, though they tend to be much smaller than those found in quartz crystals.

Clear Enhydro Fluorite

Enhydro Fluorite

Fluorite crystals occasionally contain pockets of trapped water. These enhydros can vary in color depending on impurities present in the fluorite crystal. The water-filled cavities may create interesting visual effects within the fluorite specimen.

Enhydro Calcite

Calcite enhydro crystals are also sought after by collectors. They typically appear as transparent to translucent crystals with water-filled inclusions. Calcite enhydros can exhibit similar movement of the trapped water when disturbed.

Aquamarine

Enhydro aquamarine represents a rare and captivating gemstone variety. It merges the calming blue color of aquamarine with the presence of mobile water inclusions, creating a visual association with the tranquility of the ocean depths.

Enhydro Gypsum Var Selenite

This translucent mineral, with its pearly luster, can occasionally harbor internal fluid inclusions. While the movement of the water within enhydro selenite might be less pronounced compared to quartz, it presents a more subtle visual effect, characterized by a gentle flow observable within the translucent mineral.

Significance

Enhydro crystals hold scientific significance due to the potential information they can provide regarding ancient geological environments. The chemical composition of the trapped fluids can offer insights into the temperature, pressure, and salinity conditions present during the crystal's formation. Studying these inclusions can contribute to a broader understanding of past hydrothermal systems and the geochemical evolution of the Earth's crust.

Can you drink the water in enhydro crystals?

Absolutely not. don't drink the water in enhydro crystals. The trapped water's composition (minerals, microbes) is unknown and potentially unsafe after millions of years. Enhydro crystals are not treated for consumption, and extracting the water can damage them.

Do enhydro crystals have any special properties?

Some believe they possess metaphysical properties associated with healing, growth, and inner peace.

Healing and growth: The ancient water trapped within is thought to promote overall well-being and personal development.

Inner peace and emotional balance: The movement of the water is seen as symbolizing flow and adaptability, encouraging calmness and emotional stability.

Connection to the Earth's history: The presence of millions-of-years-old water is believed to connect the owner to the planet's deep past.

Conclusion

In conclusion, enhydro crystals represent a fascinating geological phenomenon where aqueous inclusions become trapped within a mineral's crystal structure. These crystals offer valuable insights into past geological environments and hold aesthetic appeal for collectors. The scientific study of enhydro crystals and their entrapped fluids provides a window into the Earth's geological history.