There are several different spellings, but “druzy,” “drusy” and “druse” all refer to minute quartz crystals that form within or on other stones. When ground water carrying dissolved silica is forced into a porous area of rock, rapid cooling often occurs. It causes the formation of tiny crystals on top of previously deposited minerals or gemstones, particularly quartz, chalcedony or agate. The cutting of drusy cabochons begins with a rough agate geode. After removing the outer layers of agate, the inner cavity with the drusy is revealed. These pieces are then cut so that a thin layer is left with the drusy crystals appearing on the top. The agate portion of each piece is then shaped, sanded and polished.
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