Crystal growing kits are mesmerizing STEM toys that allow you to grow your own vibrant, dazzling crystals at home. Watching the crystals form before your eyes is an unforgettable experience.
But with so many crystal growing kits on the market, how do you choose the right one?
This beginner’s guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a crystal growing kit for yourself or as a gift.
What Exactly is a Crystal Growing Kit?
A crystal growing kit contains all the materials and instructions you need to grow your own crystals at home.
Crystal growing kits typically include:
- Seed crystals – Small starter crystals that provide a foundation for crystal growth.
- Chemical growth solution – A supersaturated solution containing dissolved compounds for forming crystals.
- Growing chamber – A secure, leak-proof vessel for growing the crystals over time.
- Display dome or case – For safely displaying the finished crystals.
- Full-color instructions – Step-by-step crystal growing guide for beginners.
The basic process involves mixing the chemical growth solution, adding the seed crystals, allowing time for crystal formation, and then displaying the results.
Types of Crystal Growing Kits
There are a few main types of crystal growing kits. The type you choose depends on your skill level and preferences.
Mono Solution Kits
Mono solution kits contain one premixed growth solution that produces crystals of one type, shape, and color.
Pros:
- The simplest type of kit for beginners
- Guaranteed results
Cons:
- Limited in the diversity of crystals grown
Supersaturated Solution Kits
Supersaturated solution kits provide separate chemical ingredients to create your own custom crystal growth solutions.
Pros:
- Grow a variety of crystal shapes, sizes, and colors
- Endless experimentation possibilities
Cons:
- Requires more effort and chemistry knowledge
Crystal Powder Kits
Crystal powder kits use pre-made crystal powder instead of chemical solutions. Just add water or a solvent.
Pros:
- Very easy, add water and stir
- Grow crystals in minutes
Cons:
- Less involvement in the full crystal growing process
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kit
Keep the following key factors in mind when selecting a crystal growing kit:
Age Appropriateness
- Ages 5+ – Look for sturdy, leak-proof chambers with safe, non-toxic chemicals. Mono solution kits are best for young kids.
- Ages 10+ – Supersaturated solutions kits add more hands-on chemistry for older kids.
- Ages 14+ – Advanced kits with detailed lab instructions for teenagers.
Skill Level
- Beginner – Opt for the mono solution or crystal powder kits that guarantee success. Include detailed instructions.
- Intermediate – Level up with supersaturated solutions to grow a variety of crystal shapes and colors.
- Advanced – Choose kits with real lab equipment for crystal growth experiments.
Purpose
- Education – Select kits that emphasize the science behind crystal formation. Include crystal guides.
- Decoration – For beautiful crystals to display, choose kits that produce vibrant colors and shapes.
- Science – Opt for advanced kits focused on crystal chemistry experiments.
Must-Have Components for the Best Results
The highest quality crystal growing kits include these essential components:
- Superior seed crystals – Opt for larger, nicely formed starter crystals that spur rapid growth.
- Pure chemical growth compounds – Quality chemicals in proper ratios yield large, beautifully formed crystals.
- Secure growth chamber – A transparent jar or leak-proof terrarium provides a safe, enclosed environment.
- Measuring and stirring tools – Enable proper measuring and dissolution of compounds. Wooden spoons avoid scratching.
- Display case – Show off your crystals in an acrylic display dome or box.
- Full-color guide – Step-by-step instructions, crystal guides, experiments, and science facts.
5 Best Crystal Growing Techniques
Follow these proven crystal growing methods:
1. Stalactite Crystals
Grow downwards from a vessel lid by submerging seed crystals in the solution. Resembles cave stalactites.
2. Silicon Cup
Suspend a silicon cup containing seeds in the solution. Crystals form on the cup walls.
3. Hot Water Solvent
Heat water, mix in compounds, and add seeds once cooled to grow crystals.
4. Saturated Wooden Spoon
Stir the solution with a wooden spoon holding seeds to coat the spoon handle with crystals.
5. Slow Evaporation
Allow a covered solution time to slowly evaporate and form crystals on the seeds.
Fascinating Crystal Shapes and Colors
Crystal growing kits can produce a rainbow of colors and mesmerizing shapes:
Common Crystal Shapes
- Cubes
- Tetrahedrons
- Hexagons
- Octahedrons
- Stars
- Sheaves
- Plates
- Needles
Vibrant Crystal Colors
- Purple
- Blue
- Green
- Red
- Orange
- Yellow
- Pink
- White
- Rainbow/Multicolor
Select kits that offer your favorite crystal shapes and colors. Advanced kits allow you to create unique combinations.
Creative Ways to Display Your Crystal Creations
- Acrylic display domes – Magnify crystals on an LED-lighted base.
- Wooden display cases – Classic way to showcase crystals.
- Jewelry boxes – Line a jewelry box with velvet to highlight crystals.
- Lightboxes – Illuminate from behind for glowing crystals.
- LED displays – Use color-changing LEDs to shine on crystals.
Cool Extra Features
Look for these add-ons when choosing a kit:
- Glow in the dark crystals – Grow crystals containing phosphorescent compounds.
- Mini crystal mining – Chip away at a geode to uncover buried crystals inside.
- Cave terrarium – Grow crystals in a miniature cavern landscape.
Top Recommended Crystal Growing Kits
We evaluated countless crystal growing kits and recommend these top-rated options:
National Geographic Crystal Growing Kit
- Best for younger kids ages 5+
- Grow 3 types of crystals with mono solutions
- Includes display case and full-color guidebook
- Cost: $24.99
4M Crystal Growing Experiment Kit
- Best supersaturated solution kit
- Grow 600+ types of crystals
- Advanced lab set for ages 10+
- Cost: $27.99
Thames & Kosmos Crystal Growing Kit
- Most complete lab-grade kit
- Grow up to 500 crystals
- Advanced techniques for teens/adults
- Cost: $64.95
We highly recommend these top-performing crystal growing kits based on ease of use, educational value, crystal quality, and consumer reviews. Expect mesmerizing results from your own crystals grown at home!
Let Your Inner Scientist Shine
Growing crystals is an illuminating experiment that reveals the hidden beauty and structure within chemical compounds.
With so many crystal growing kits to choose from, identify your skill level and interests to select the ideal kit. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the dazzling colors and formations of their homegrown crystals.
Display your crystalline creations as fascinating art pieces that complement any room. Let the magic of crystal growing awaken your inner scientist!
For further crystal growing inspiration and guidance, check out these helpful educational resources:
- The Crystal Grower’s Handbook by Tammy Kuykendall – The crystal growing bible with in-depth science and techniques.
- Crystals for Beginners by Karen Frazier – A complete introduction to crystal growing for all ages.
- CrystalGrowing.com – Articles, techniques, and crystal growing information.
- Crystalverse YouTube Channel – Tutorial videos and experiments.
Let the magic begin! May your crystal creations fill you with wonder and delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age for starting crystal growing?
Crystal growing kits are suitable for children as young as 5 years old. Look for sturdy, secure chambers and non-toxic chemicals for younger kids. Around 10 years old, kids can advance to more hands-on crystal growing using supersaturated solutions.
What chemicals are used in crystal growing kits?
Common chemical growth compounds include borax, alum, salt, sugar, epsom salts, and baking soda. Always follow kit instructions carefully and supervise children for safety.
How long does it take crystals to form?
With the right seed crystals and growth solution, crystals can begin forming in hours, but larger crystals may take days or weeks to fully develop. Patience is key to crystal growth!
What is the best way to display my crystals?
Show off your crystalline creations in an acrylic display dome on an LED base, a classic wooden display case, a lined jewelry box, an LED display, or a backlit light box. Spotlight your crystals!
Can crystals grow in different shapes and colors?
Yes! With the right chemical solutions, you can grow crystals in cubes, stars, hexagons, and more. Add compounds to produce vibrant crystal colors – purple, green, rainbow, and beyond!
Is crystal growing safe?
Quality crystal growing kits are designed to be safe when instructions are followed, though adult supervision is recommended, especially for younger children. Avoid mouth contact and wash hands after use.
Can I grow glow-in-the-dark crystals?
Some kits contain phosphorescent compounds that produce crystals capable of glowing in the dark once “charged” under light. Look for glow crystal growing kits for magical results!