Crystal System
Embed This Widget
Add the script tag and a data attribute to embed this widget.
Embed via iframe for maximum compatibility.
<iframe src="https://gemfyi.com/iframe/glossary/crystal-system/" width="420" height="400" frameborder="0" style="border:0;border-radius:10px;max-width:100%" loading="lazy"></iframe>Paste this URL in WordPress, Medium, or any oEmbed-compatible platform.
https://gemfyi.com/glossary/crystal-system/Add a dynamic SVG badge to your README or docs.
[](https://gemfyi.com/glossary/crystal-system/)Use the native HTML custom element.
Definition
One of the seven fundamental classifications of crystal symmetry — cubic, tetragonal, orthorhombic, hexagonal, trigonal, monoclinic, and triclinic — that describes the geometric arrangement of atoms in a mineral.
Detailed Explanation
The crystal system governs many optical and physical properties. Cubic (isometric) system gems like diamond, spinel, and garnet are singly refractive and show no birefringence. Trigonal system gems include corundum (ruby and sapphire) and quartz, while the hexagonal system includes beryl (emerald, aquamarine). Monoclinic and triclinic gems tend to display strong birefringence and pleochroism. Identifying the crystal system using polarized light is a standard first step in gemological identification.