Faden Quartz

Among the books, decks, and stones on 14th Street is this mineral specimen: Faden Quartz (shop SKU FDNQU3200).

Faden quartz is quartz with a white, thread-like zone (the 'faden') running through the crystal, a mark of how it grew after the host rock was pulled apart. Pakistan is a well-known source. In crystal traditions, faden quartz is associated with connection and with mending. Those ideas belong to folklore and personal practice, not to any medical claim.

Natural stones vary in color, clarity, and shape, so the piece you receive will have its own character even when the weight or grade is listed.

• SKU: FDNQU3200

Look for it at Namaste Bookshop, 2 West 14th Street near Union Square, or order from the shop online.