Spirit Amethyst—also known as Cactus Amethyst or Fairy Amethyst—and its close cousin Spirit Quartz are some of the most enchanting crystals you’ll ever see. Their glittering surfaces look as though they’ve been dusted with stardust, catching the light in a way that’s simply magical. Whether you’re a crystal collector or just love a bit of sparkle, these pieces are captivating.

Science & Structure

Spirit Amethyst and Spirit Quartz form through a fascinating process called second-generation growth. A larger quartz or amethyst point grows first. Later, hundreds of tiny quartz crystals sprout over its surface, creating a shimmering drusy coating while leaving the tip of the original point visible.

• Composition: Both are members of the quartz family (SiO₂) with a solid Mohs hardness of 7, so they’re durable and perfect for display or gentle handling.

• Colours: Spirit Quartz can appear as clear quartz, soft lilac amethyst, warm citrine-gold, or even smoky hues, depending on trace minerals during formation.

Where They’re Found

The bulk of the world’s Spirit Amethyst and Spirit Quartz comes from South Africa, where miners carefully hand-collect these sparkling wonders. You can actually find some quartz formations here in New Zealand—particularly around the Coromandel Peninsula—that show hints of similar secondary growth. While true Spirit Quartz is still mostly a South African treasure, these local finds remind us that the earth can surprise us anywhere.

A Glimpse of History

Spirit Quartz is a relatively new discovery on the global crystal scene, first recognised by collectors in South Africa in the late 20th century. Local communities have long admired its beauty, and it quickly gained popularity with crystal healers and collectors worldwide for its unique texture and powerful energy.

Metaphysical Energy

Spirit Amethyst is believed to carry a high vibration, making it a favourite for:

• Aura cleansing and spiritual evolution

• Deep inner healing and meditation

• Group harmony and collective healing—the many tiny points are said to radiate energy in all directions, perfect for circle work or family spaces

• Charging other crystals, thanks to its powerful multi-pointed energy field

Clear or Citrine and golden healer-hued Spirit Quartz is thought to share these gifts, with each colour adding its own subtle layer of energy.

Modern-Day Uses

These crystals shine as centrepieces on altars, in meditation corners, or anywhere you want a lift of bright, positive energy. Their drusy surfaces sparkle under natural light, making them beautiful décor as well as spiritual tools. Many people place them in communal areas—living rooms, offices, or healing spaces—to encourage harmony and balance.

A Kiwi Touch

Here in New Zealand, Spirit Amethyst feels right at home. I keep a cluster in the Blissful Things crystal cabin in the Bay of Plenty where it catches the soft afternoon sun and fills the space with sparkle. Whenever I’m up in the Coromandel and spot a quartz formation with tiny secondary growths, I can’t help but wonder if the earth is hinting at its own little Spirit Quartz secret.

Spirit Amethyst and Spirit Quartz are reminders that nature loves to layer beauty upon beauty. From the hills of South Africa to a Kiwi crystal shelf, their glittering points invite harmony, light, and a touch of pure magic into any space.

To view our range of Spirit Quartz & Spirit Amethyst, click here.