mineral
Quartz (Smoky/Brown variety)
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7. Brown to greyish-brown color. Vitreous luster. Hexagonal crystal structure. No cleavage, conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7. Brown to greyish-brown color. Vitreous luster. Hexagonal crystal structure. No cleavage, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, often in pegmatites. The color comes from natural irradiation of aluminum impurities.
Uses & applications
Used in jewelry, electronics, and as a collector's mineral.
Geological facts
Smoky quartz was historically used for sunglasses in China in the 12th century.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its hardness (scratches glass), conchoidal fracture, and brownish color. Common worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary