mineral
Likely dark smoky quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂); identification is tentative from the photo
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectRough, translucent-to-opaque brown-black material with a vitreous luster. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; these properties cannot be confirmed visually.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Likely dark smoky quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Rough, translucent-to-opaque brown-black material with a vitreous luster. Quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; these properties cannot be confirmed visually.
Formation & geological history
Quartz forms in igneous and hydrothermal settings and in metamorphic rocks; smoky color commonly develops from natural irradiation acting on trace aluminum. Its age and locality cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in jewelry, ornaments, and various industrial applications; this rough piece may be of modest interest to collectors.
Geological facts
Smoky quartz’s color ranges from pale gray-brown to nearly black, and may fade with prolonged exposure to strong light or heat.
Field identification & locations
The dark translucent appearance and glassy fracture are consistent with smoky quartz, but other dark minerals could look similar. Check for hardness and lack of cleavage; locality is unknown.
