Natural crystals
Natural crystals and jade often have inclusions such as cracks or cotton-like formations due to geological movements and environmental factors during their formation process. These natural marks are a hallmark of their uniqueness. Even the highest collectible grade natural crystals or jade will inevitably have these natural characteristics.
On the other hand, if a crystal is completely transparent with no inclusions or cracks, it is likely to be synthetic. Synthetic crystals are usually created in a laboratory where the growth environment is controlled, thus avoiding the common inclusions and cracks found in natural crystals. This is one of the most basic methods to distinguish between natural and synthetic crystals.