mineral
Smoky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, brown to grey-brown translucent color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, brown to grey-brown translucent color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the crystallization of silicon dioxide-rich fluids in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites, often colored naturally by the irradiation of aluminum impurities within the crystal lattice over millions of years
Uses & applications
Used in gemstone jewelry, decorative carvings, optical components, and crystal healing specimens
Geological facts
Smoky quartz is the national gemstone of Scotland, where it has a long history in traditional Highland jewelry and kilt pins
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive brown-to-grey translucency and quartz hardness; commonly found worldwide in association with granitic rocks and pegmatites
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