This was marked a "Tibetan Quartz" at the shop where I bought this. probably fifteen years ago, but — given the political turmoil that has plagued Tibet for centuries — I wouldn't be surprised if this piece actually came from some other region in the Himalayas. Still, close enough. It definitely has a different look and feel from most quartz I've seen that originated in North and South America.
It is interesting how part of the crystal appears bright white, and the remainder is a duller white, appearing almost gray in some lighting. It also has a wonderful, smooth feel to it and is delightful to hold. It is also fascinating how light plays through the milky depths of the crystal. It is rather rare to find a double-terminated quartz crystal (i.e., with a "point" on both ends) in nature, so that makes this one very special.
photo by me
For more information:
1 Wikipedia: Quartz
