mineral
Smoky Quartz in Matrix
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brown to blackish-grey, translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Brown to blackish-grey, translucent
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brown to blackish-grey, translucent; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous environments (pegmatites) or hydrothermal veins. The smoky color is caused by natural irradiation of aluminum-bearing quartz over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (gemstones), ornamental carvings, and as popular collectable mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Smoky quartz is the national gem of Scotland, where it is known as 'Cairngorm.' Some extremely dark specimens from the Alps are referred to as 'Morion.'
Field identification & locations
Identified by its smoky color, high hardness, and lack of cleavage. Look for it in granite-rich regions or alpine crevices.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral