So rare & Cool! Phantoms in quartz crystals form as a result of interruptions in their growth process. Here's how it happens: Initial Growth: The crystal begins growing under specific conditions in the earth, with minerals & silica-rich fluids contributing to its formation Interruption: At some point, growth temporarily halts due to changes in environmental conditions, such as a drop in temperature, pressure or the availability of minerals Layer Formation: During this pause, a fine layer of mineral deposits, like chlorite, hematite, or other inclusions—settles on the crystal's surface Growth Resumes: The conditions return to being favorable, & the quartz continues to grow, encasing the earlier layer within its clear outer structure This process creates the appearance of a "ghost" or "phantom" crystal inside the quartz, reflecting the original shape of the crystal at the time of the interruption. The effect is a fascinating, layered inclusion that seems to float within the crystal.