mineral
Smoky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: translucen grey to black; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: hexagonal/trigonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- translucen grey to black
- Luster
- vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: translucen grey to black; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: hexagonal/trigonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous rocks like granite or pegmatites; the smoky color is a result of natural irradiation from surrounding rocks causing internal defects in the crystal lattice of quartz.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (faceted or cabochon), as ornamental specimens for collectors, and in metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
The dark color is often caused by the presence of aluminum traces being activated by free radiation. In very dark, opaque varieties, it is referred to as 'Morion'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), glass-like luster, and smoky color without distinct layers. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the Swiss Alps.
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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
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary