mineral

Tumbled smoky quartz

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), likely smoky variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent brown-to-nearly black, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, no visible cleavage; Mohs hardness 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. The irregular facets and glossy surface indicate a polished or tumbled piece.

Identified September 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Smoky quartz forms when natural or radiation-induced color centers develop in quartz within granitic pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks. Its age depends on the host deposit, commonly millions to billions of years.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental and lapidary stone, in jewelry, carvings, and mineral collections; common pieces have modest commercial value.

Geological facts

The dark color is produced by irradiation of aluminum-bearing quartz, not usually by inclusions. Very dark transparent material is sometimes called morion.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its brown smoky transparency, glassy luster, hardness, and lack of cleavage; it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Switzerland, Madagascar, the United States, and Scotland.