mineral

Polished smoky quartz with iron-oxide inclusions

Quartz (SiO₂), smoky variety; inclusions likely hematite/goethite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent dark gray-brown color with reddish-brown inclusions, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and no cleavage. The stone is polished and wire-wrapped, obscuring some natural features.

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Smoky quartz forms in silica-rich hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and granitic cavities; natural irradiation creates its smoky color. Iron-oxide inclusions form during or after crystal growth, commonly in Phanerozoic and older granitic environments.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary stone, jewelry centerpiece, and collector specimen; quartz is also important in glass, electronics, and abrasives. This piece is primarily ornamental.

Geological facts

The smoky coloration commonly results from irradiation of aluminum-related defects in quartz. Reddish inclusions may produce attractive landscape-like patterns but cannot be identified confidently from the photograph alone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, high scratch resistance, translucency, and lack of cleavage; quartz should not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, Switzerland, and China.