mineral
Smoky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Brownish-grey to black, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Brownish-grey to black, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. The smoky color results from natural irradiation of aluminum-bearing quartz over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in gemstone jewelry, ornamental carvings, and for metaphysical collecting. Historically used for sunglasses in 12th century China.
Geological facts
Smoky quartz is the national gem of Scotland, where it is known as Cairngorm. It can range from almost completely transparent to a solid black variety called Morion.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit, lack of cleavage, and characteristic translucent 'smoke' color. Commonly found in granite-rich mountain ranges.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
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