Problem of building units in crystal growth and genesis of non-classical concepts of crystal formation

On the basis of the analysis of dramatical history of development of the concepts of building units in crystal growth we discuss the genesis of non-classical concepts of crystal growth. We show that in the 21st century the competent advantage in the theory of crystal growth transits to notions about building units larger than individual atoms and molecules. New experimental data, testifying to a stable life of prenuclear clusters-quatarons or other organized groups of atoms in crystal-forming environments and their participation in crystal growth and also already formed crystalline particles, allow not only solving the old “Kossel vs. Balarev” problem, but also proving non-classical mechanisms of crystal growth.