Crystal twinning occurs when two separate crystals share some of the same
crystal lattice points in a symmetrical manner. The result is an intergrowth of two separate crystals in a variety of specific configurations. A
twin boundary or
composition surface separates the two crystals.
Crystallographers classify twinned crystals by a number of twin laws. These twin laws are specific to the
crystal system. The type of twinning can be a diagnostic tool in mineral identification.