Crystals are outshining diamonds in the Covid-19 era

Brands like Swarovski have long used crystals in their jewellery designs. But the popularity of the "near-gemstones" now extends far beyond being just fashion accessories.

I did not intend to become interested in crystals. It happened, as these things often do, during a long drive through the desert. A chance pass through Quartzsite, Arizona, piqued my interest.

It corresponded with an annual crystal show where thousands of "rock hounds” convene in the aptly named outpost to sell glittering pillars of rose quartz, regal amethysts, and malachite as swirled and green as the back of an ancient gilded turtle.