Smoky quartz is often used in jewelry and crystal healing, many people wonder if it's safe to put smoky quartz in water. Here's what you need to know.
The short answer is yes, you can safely put smoky quartz in water without damaging the crystal. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when getting smoky quartz wet.
First, you'll want to avoid any sudden temperature changes. Smoky quartz can be sensitive to thermal shock, which means dramatic shifts from hot to cold or vice versa. This rapid change in temperature can potentially fracture or crack the crystal. The safest way to expose smoky quartz to water is at room temperature. Don't go from icewater straight to hot water or boiling water.
Second, limit the amount of time smoky quartz spends fully submerged. While brief dips in water are fine, you don't want the crystal sitting in water for days on end. The water can seep into tiny natural fissures and inclusions over time, potentially expanding them and causing internal damage to the stone. After getting smoky quartz wet, be sure to dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Third, use caution with saltwater and chlorinated water. The minerals and chemicals in these types of water can potentially react with the crystal over a long period of time. A quick dip is probably fine, but don't let smoky quartz soak for a prolonged period. Also avoid using harsh cleaning agents like bleach. Gentle soap and water is best for cleaning smoky quartz jewelry or crystals.
When used carefully, getting smoky quartz wet can help deepen its beautiful smoky color. The water seems to make the tones pop. Lightly sprinkling some water on a smoky quartz cluster or geode has a nice effect. Just don't leave it wet for days on end, and allow it to fully dry afterward.
Some other good tips for using smoky quartz with water:
- It's fine to place smoky quartz in a water fountain or Zen garden, as long as the water is room temperature. The soothing, slow movement of fountain water is relaxing.
- You can charge smoky quartz in a bowl of water overnight under the full moon. Don't exceed 12 hours. This is said to energize the crystal.
- Using smoky quartz in a steamy bathroom is OK. The warm humid environment won't harm the stone.
- You can wash smoky quartz jewelry with mild soap and water. Just avoid prolonged soaking and be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly.
With proper care, water and smoky quartz can safely coexist. A little water can enhance this beautiful crystal's dark smoky tones. Just be mindful of temperature changes, saltwater, and soaking time when getting your smoky quartz wet. Use common sense and your stunning crystal will retain its beauty for many years to come.
