The Mystery of Crystal Skulls Explained

The origin of the Crystal Skull remains one of the most controversial archaeological mysteries in existence. While some claim that these iconic and spooky artifacts hail from ancient or even extraterrestrial origins, others insist that they are simply clever trinkets, made in modern times to satisfy the wonder and curiosity of those receptive to the striking visual appeal of such things.

How Did the Mystery Originate?

The phenomenon of the Crystal Skull first appeared in Europe in the late 1800’s, where they were introduced as relics found at Mayan and Aztec archaeological digs. Passed down from owner to owner, these rare artifacts gained steadily in popularity and mystery, enticing the imaginations of young and old, and displayed at various fairs and expositions on a pay-per-view basis. Grand stories of their origins were woven about them, and the people who came in contact with the skulls often reported strange feelings and visions in their presence.

The most famous crystal skull, the Mitchell-Hedges Skull, was said to have been found by the daughter of a famous archaeologist beneath an Aztec altar in 1924. Early examinations, using measuring devices of the time, suggested that such a creation should not be possible, given the hard and brittle nature of quartz crystal, and the lack of technology needed to shape the skulls so perfectly. The unsurpassed level of detail, as well as the presence of a detachable jawbone (which studies concluded was carved from the same piece of crystal), baffled and amazed the scientists examining it.

What Are The Most Common Beliefs?

Believers in the mystery of the Crystal Skulls have claimed that they sometimes communicate telepathically or see holographic images of ancient city sites and rituals displayed within the skulls. Others claim that, due to the electrical conductivity of quartz crystal, these artifacts may actually be information storage devices; highly advanced computers that can only be accessed by their creators. Extraterrestrials, Atlantians, the Mayans and the Aztecs have all been named as these highly advanced creators.

Skeptics and critics of the Crystal Skull legacy have pointed to more recent, in-depth scientific studies using highly-advanced microscopes and crystal analysis machinery. These studies claim that the skulls were actually created in Europe by master craftsmen just prior to their being “discovered” in Latin America. Signs of machining with rotary tools and traces of man-made synthetic abrasives seem to dispel the ancient provenance of these magnificent skulls. Sales records tracing the pasts of these skulls have further led to European origins during a time when the public fascination with Native American artifacts was at an all-time high, and the market for high-quality artifacts at a fever pitch.

Whether these skulls are the works of an advanced ancient race or the creation of a few enterprising antiques dealers wanting to give the public a new thrill, the beauty and mystery of the Crystal Skulls cannot be denied. For to gaze into their hollow eyes and marvel at the play of light through their perfectly worked recesses, is to look into the mystery of humanity itself.