seed crystal

A seed crystal is a small particle or crystal used to initiate the crystallization process in materials. Imagine it as a tiny nucleus around which other molecules can gather and form a larger, organized structure, much like how snowflakes form around a particle of dust. Seed crystals are essential in various applications, such as growing larger crystals for jewelry, pharmaceuticals, or even in manufacturing processes where specific crystal properties are desired. By providing a template, seed crystals help control the growth and quality of the final crystal structure.