What growth forms do Crystals have?
Crystal formations are geometrically-arranged structures of atoms, ions, or molecules that form a solid material with a unique lattice or pattern. These patterns can take various shapes, ranging from simple cubes to more complex and intricate forms. The formation of crystals typically occurs through a process called crystallization, where atoms or molecules bind together and then grow in a patterned manner. Several factors can affect crystal formation, including temperature, pressure, and the presence of impurities.
Common types of growth forms as follows:
Crystal Point: A single terminated crystal which can have many additional characters below.
Double Terminated: A single crystal with a termination at each end.
Twin: Crystal Points which are joined together by their side facets from the base up. Also known as a Companion.
Cluster: A group of Crystal Points grow from the same base.
Bridge: A point has at least one smaller crystal sticking out and penetrating the main body of the crystal.
Elestial: Crystals have multiple points growing from the same main crystal body.
Geode: A hollow rock which contains hundreds of crystals growing inside it.
Aggregator: Aggregator Crystals are large crystals partially or totally covered in smaller crystals.
Inclusion: Other minerals caught inside a crystal. The minerals can appear gold, copper, silver, black colours.
Phantom: A ghost like 3D pyramid point inside a crystal. Shows the earlier size before it grew bigger. Some crystals have multiple Phantoms.
Rainbow: A rainbow reflection inside the crystal, caused by a special flaw. Only seen when it catches the light.
Record Keeper: These crystals have one or more triangles visible on one or more faces of the crystal.
Key: A hexagonal or angular shaped recess usually on the side facets of a crystal and near the base.
Isis Face: A five sided face with a tall point at the top. Also known as an Isis Crystal.
Generator: A Crystal Point with six equal sized triangular faces and a very central termination.
Window: A diamond shaped extra face on a Crystal Point. Also known as a Sixth Face.
Channelling: Channelling Crystals have a large seven sided face with two small triangular face on either side and one triangular face directly behind the main face.
Reference:
Geologyin, accessed 07.2023. https://www.geologyin.com/2018/03/crystal-formations-and-their-meanings.html