mineral
Smoky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Smoky brown to black (Morion), Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture, Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Smoky brown to black (Morion), Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture, Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically pegmatites and hydrothermally. The color results from natural irradiation of aluminum-bearing quartz over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in gemstone jewelry, ornamental carvings, high-quality display specimens for collectors, and historically used in early sunglasses in China.
Geological facts
Smoky quartz is the national gem of Scotland, where it is known as Cairngorm. Some very dark, opaque varieties are called 'Morion'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its translucent smoky color and glass-like luster. It lacks cleavage, breaking along curved surfaces. Commonly found in Brazil, USA (Colorado), and the Swiss Alps.
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