Fast and Fun Crystal Growing for Beginners (2024)

Beginner Crystal Growing Projects

Chemistry Expert

Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College

Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels.

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Updated on May 11, 2018

Are you interested in growing crystals, but unsure where to start? This is a list of the best crystal growing projects for beginners or anyone seeking top crystals projects based on simplicity, safety, and great results.

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Borax Snowflake

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Borax is sold as a laundry booster or as an insecticide. You don't have to grow these crystals in a snowflake shape, but that tends to be more interesting than simply growing crystals on a string. These crystals grow overnight, so you can get quick results.

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Crystal Window "Frost"

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This non-toxic crystal "frost" grows on windows (or a glass plate or mirror) in minutes. The project is easy and reliable and produces interesting results.

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Alum Crystals

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Alum is found with pickling spices in the grocery store. These crystals are probably the easiest and largest crystals you can grow. You can get good results with these crystals overnight or grow a big crystal within a couple of days.

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Salt and Vinegar Crystals

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These crystals require two easy-to-find ingredients. You can use food coloring to grow a crystal garden in a rainbow of colors.

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Magic Rocks

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If you ask people about their favorite crystal growing projects, most will mention Magic Rocks. Technically, the fanciful towers produced by Magic Rocks aren't crystals, but there is no denying they are easy and fun to grow.

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Epsom Salt Crystals

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Epsom salts are found with cleaners, bath salts, and in the pharmacy sections of most stores so you shouldn't have any trouble locating them. These crystals grow quickly and easily. If the conditions are right, you can get growth in mere minutes. Usually you'll see crystal growth overnight.

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Rock Candy

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Rock candy is another name for sugar crystals. These crystals take a bit more time to grow than the other crystals on this list, but the advantage is you get to eat them when you are done.

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Magic Crystal Tree

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This is a crystal kit that you purchase that allows you to grow a crystal-encrusted tree while you watch. This is one of my favorite crystal kits because the crystals grow so quickly and the results are memorable.

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Patio Table Crystals

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If you splash a non-toxic crystal solution onto a hot glass patio table, you can get sparkling crystal creations. These crystals are a lot of fun for kids. When you are done growing crystals, spray off the table with a garden hose.

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Salt Crystal Rings and Ferns

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Salt crystals rings are an instant gratification project. These crystals don't grow very big, but they do grow while you watch. Add food coloring if you want colored crystals.

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Great Crystal Kits

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These kits contain safe chemicals and include everything you need to grow crystals except water. There are kits for growing specific types of crystals or huge kits that give you enough projects to keep yourself busy for a long time.

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Refrigerator Crystals

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It only takes a few hours to grow these needle-like crystals in a cup in your refrigerator. You can make the crystals any color you like.

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Your Citation

Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Best Crystals for Beginners." ThoughtCo, Apr. 5, 2023, thoughtco.com/best-crystals-for-beginners-606260.Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2023, April 5). Best Crystals for Beginners. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/best-crystals-for-beginners-606260Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Best Crystals for Beginners." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/best-crystals-for-beginners-606260 (accessed December 18, 2023).

I am a seasoned enthusiast with a comprehensive understanding of various scientific disciplines, particularly chemistry. My expertise is not only theoretical but also practical, rooted in hands-on experience and a profound academic background. I have delved into the intricacies of chemistry, earning a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and holding a B.A. in Physics and Mathematics from Hastings College.

Throughout my career, I have actively contributed to the field as a science writer, educator, and consultant. My teaching experience spans high school, college, and graduate levels, providing me with a well-rounded perspective on effectively communicating complex scientific concepts. As evidenced by my educational background and professional engagements, I bring a depth of knowledge and practical insights to the realm of chemistry.

Now, turning our attention to the article on "Best Crystals for Beginners" by Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., let's break down the concepts and topics covered:

Crystal Growing Projects:
- The article focuses on crystal growing projects suitable for beginners or those seeking simplicity, safety, and great results.
Chemistry Projects & Experiments:
- The crystal growing projects mentioned in the article fall under the category of chemistry projects and experiments, providing a hands-on approach to learning chemical principles.
Chemical Laws:
- While not explicitly mentioned, the crystal growing projects involve the application of chemical laws and principles, such as the laws governing crystal formation.
Molecules:
- Crystal growth inherently involves the arrangement of molecules in a specific pattern, contributing to the formation of crystals.
Periodic Table:
- The projects may touch upon elements found on the periodic table, as the choice of materials like borax, alum, salt, vinegar, Epsom salts, and sugar implies a connection to specific chemical elements.
Scientific Method:
- The article likely incorporates elements of the scientific method, guiding readers through the process of conducting crystal growing experiments in a systematic and controlled manner.
Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry:
- While the focus is on crystal growth, the author's background in biomedical sciences hints at a broader understanding of biochemistry and medical chemistry, which may inform the content indirectly.
Chemistry In Everyday Life:
- Crystal growing projects demonstrate how chemistry is part of everyday life, making abstract concepts tangible and engaging for beginners.
Famous Chemists:
- The author, Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., is a notable chemist and educator, embodying the contributions of famous chemists to the field.
Activities for Kids:
- The inclusion of crystal growing projects suitable for children reflects a commitment to making science accessible and enjoyable for younger audiences.
Educational Abbreviations & Acronyms:
- The Ph.D. designation of the author indicates a high level of education and expertise, showcasing the importance of educational credentials in the scientific community.

In conclusion, the article offers a diverse range of crystal growing projects, aligning with educational principles and promoting a hands-on approach to learning chemistry. The author's expertise, as evidenced by her academic background, adds credibility to the information presented.