mineral
Smoky Quartz with Inclusions
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brownish-translucent with dark carbon or hematite/manganese inclusions; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brownish-translucent with dark carbon or hematite/manganese inclusions; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Smoky quartz forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly pegmatites. The smoky color is usually produced by natural irradiation of trace aluminum within the quartz crystal lattice over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used frequently in jewelry as a gemstone, in lapidary arts for carvings, and is highly popular among mineral specimen collectors.
Geological facts
Quartz is the most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The smoky variety's color can be intensified or altered through heat treatment.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent 'smoky' appearance. Commonly found in mountainous regions with granitic outcrops.
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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