gemstone

Smoky quartz (likely faceted cabochon or rough fragment)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), smoky variety colored by irradiation-related defects

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 7, translucent brown to gray-brown, with a vitreous luster and trigonal crystal structure; quartz has indistinct cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The image shows a small dark, polished/faceted translucent specimen, but exact identification is uncertain from appearance alone.

Identified August 28, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Smoky quartz (likely faceted cabochon or rough fragment)
Scientific name: Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), smoky variety colored by irradiation-related defects
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 28, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a small common specimen or cabochon; $30–$200+ for attractive, transparent, well-cut stones.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and cavities of igneous rocks; coloration develops from natural radiation acting on aluminum impurities over geologic time. Commonly occurs from Precambrian to younger mineral-forming systems.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental gemstone, jewelry stone, and collector specimen; transparent faceted material is more valuable than cloudy or heavily included pieces.

Geological facts

Smoky quartz can fade with strong heat or prolonged sunlight, and very dark material may be artificially irradiated. Related varieties include morion (nearly black) and cairngorm (yellow-brown).

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, translucency, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and conchoidal fracture; distinguish it from smoky glass by crystal faces, inclusions, and lack of bubbles. Major sources include Brazil, Switzerland, Scotland, the United States, Madagascar, and Spain.