mineral
Smoky Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, brown to black color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, brown to black color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal system, and conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through natural irradiation of quartz containing trace aluminum impurities.
Uses & applications
Used widely in jewelry, gemstone carving, and metaphysical practices due to its attractive dark coloration.
Geological facts
The dark color is caused by gamma rays emitted from surrounding radioactive rocks exciting aluminum lattice defects.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive brown-to-black translucent color and high scratch resistance, commonly found worldwide in pegmatites.
