Crystal experience
Crystals at Furka Pass
The Furka region is one of the richest crystal regions in the Swiss Alps. At Hotel Tiefenbach, Alpine minerals are part of the house: a display, a collection and a conversation with host Hansruedi Tresch.
Smoky quartz
main mineral
Rose fluorite
rare treasure
Aar massif
geological region
Since 1868
documented finds
Crystal exhibition & sales in the restaurant
Host Hansruedi Tresch is a passionate Alpine crystal hunter himself. His impressive collection — dark smoky quartz with rose fluorite, gwindel and other highlights — is displayed in the restaurant of Hotel Tiefenbach.
Selected pieces are also available for purchase. Please ask directly at the hotel about the current selection.
From the collection
Smoky quartz group with ibex figure
Mountain crystals and rose fluorite — Hansruedi Tresch collection
Smoky quartz with rose fluorite crystals — Furka region
Smoky quartz collection at Hotel Tiefenbach
Smoky quartz and rose fluorite in glass display
Large smoky quartz specimen with single crystal
Smoky quartz point — close-up
Mountain crystal with phantom formation
Mountain crystal group — specimen for sale
Rose fluorite among smoky quartz — collection highlight
Furka region and crystal-hunting tradition
The region
The area north-east of the Furka — with Tiefengletscher, Sidelengletscher and the striking crystalline rock landscape around Gletschhorn, Galenstock and Büelenhorn — is particularly rich in crystals and rare cleft minerals.
Historic find in 1868
Crystal hunters from Guttannen discovered a huge cleft at Tiefengletscher with brown-black smoky quartz crystals (morions) weighing up to 130 kg and secretly transported them away before the people of Uri noticed.
What can be found
Internationally sought-after minerals: smoky quartz, mountain crystals, rose fluorite and gwindel. The crystals form in clefts created by tectonic forces during mountain formation.
Crystal hunting — a tradition
In Switzerland, Alpine mineral seekers are called Strahler. The name refers to crystals, also called Strahlen. Their most important tool is the Strahlstock.
Good to know
Crystal hunting in Canton Uri requires a permit. Mineral finds in the mountains belong to the canton or municipality. Hansruedi Tresch will gladly advise you about possibilities and rules.
For more history and geological background, read the article about crystals at Furka Pass. If you want to combine the exhibition with an overnight stay, see the rooms at Hotel Tiefenbach.
Interested in crystals?
Visit the exhibition in the restaurant or contact us.