mineral

Rough quartz crystal (possibly smoky quartz)

Quartz, SiO₂; color variety uncertain from the photograph

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent gray-brown with glassy luster and irregular fractured surfaces; quartz is Mohs 7, trigonal, with no true cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The small specimen’s color and internal reflections are not sufficient to confirm a specific variety.

Identified September 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and cavities, or from cooling magma; it forms across a wide range of geological ages and settings.

Uses & applications

Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and jewelry; this rough piece is mainly suitable for collecting unless it can be cut or polished.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and occurs in many colors; smoky coloration commonly results from natural radiation affecting trace aluminum in the crystal.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and lack of cleavage; confirm identity with a hardness test rather than appearance alone. Quartz occurs worldwide, especially in veins and pegmatites.