Quartz

Quartz has a much higher melting point than borosilicate or soft glass. The extra heat necessary to melt quartz causes the light coming off it to be much brighter.  Before purchasing quartz, we recommend making sure your torch will melt it and that you have the proper eye protection to keep you safe.  

Quartz also hardens quickly when out of the flame.  Shaping and marvering must be done in the flame which causes tools to wear down quickly. 

Quartz rod makes a great handle for fuming metals!  Because the quartz barely moves, the metals stays in place better and it's less likely to crack when setting down.