mineral
Smoky Quartz (with Iron Oxidation)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Smoky greyish-brown with reddish-orange iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Smoky greyish-brown with reddish-orange iron staining, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Usually forms in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins when natural radiation from surrounding rocks activates aluminum impurities in quartz crystals. It is found in geological environments ranging from thousands to millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for crystal healing, as a decorative specimen for collectors, and occasionally as a gemstone for jewelry when high clarity is present.
Geological facts
The smoky color is the result of natural irradiation. It was historically used in China for the earliest known sunglasses during the 12th century.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent smoky appearance. Common in granite-heavy regions and pegmatite deposits 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