mineral
Smoky Quartz in Matrix
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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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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