The Everyday Gem Family
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, and Sri Lanka has it in many lovely gem varieties. Affordable, durable (hardness 7), and available in large clean sizes, quartz is perfect for bold, colourful jewellery and carvings. (Note: amethyst is also quartz — we cover it in its own guide.)
The Main Varieties
- Rock crystal — colourless and clear, used in jewellery and carvings
- Rose quartz — soft pink, often translucent with a milky glow; a perennial favourite
- Smoky quartz — brown to grey, from gentle tea-colour to near black
- Citrine — golden yellow to amber (much citrine is heat-treated amethyst)
- Milky & rutilated quartz — included varieties with their own character
What Affects Value
- Colour — vivid, even colours (deep rose, rich citrine) are most prized.
- Clarity — clear, transparent stones are valued; some varieties are valued for their inclusions.
- Cut & size — quartz is available in large, clean, affordable stones.
Why It's Popular
Quartz offers big, beautiful colour at a friendly price — ideal for statement pieces and a great entry point into the world of gems.
See the Gem Country
Browse Ratnapura accommodation and the Island of Gems overview.
Quick Facts
| Mineral | Quartz |
| Varieties | Rock crystal, rose, smoky, citrine |
| Hardness | 7 (Mohs) |
| Affordability | Large clean stones, friendly prices |
| Note | Amethyst is also quartz (its own guide) |
| Main SL source | Ratnapura gem fields |
Frequently Asked Questions
What quartz varieties come from Sri Lanka? Rock crystal (clear), rose quartz (pink), smoky quartz (brown/grey), and citrine (golden), among others.
Is citrine natural? Much citrine on the market is heat-treated amethyst, which is accepted; natural citrine also exists.
Why is quartz popular for jewellery? It offers big, beautiful colour at a friendly price, with good durability (hardness 7).
Is amethyst a quartz? Yes — it's the purple variety; see our dedicated amethyst guide.