Smoky Quartz
Quartz var. Smoky Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically prismatic with pyramidal terminations, often found in massive or faceted forms as seen here.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with aluminum impurities and natural irradiation)
Formation Process
Magmatic or Hydrothermal; forms in pegmatites and quartz veins where natural radiation from surrounding rocks affects aluminum impurities in the quartz structure.
About This Crystal
A translucent to transparent variety of quartz ranging from pale grayish-tan to deep chocolate brown or 'Morion' black. This specimen shows a vitreous luster with internal fractures and a faceted-like appearance.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Brownish-grey; Streak: White; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually inert/none; Tenacity: Brittle.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Weakly pleochroic; Uniaxial positive; Vitreous luster.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Switzerland (Alpine 'Gwindels'), Madagascar, and the United States (Colorado).
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7.0; Toughness: Good; Highly stable and durable for all types of jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water; avoid prolonged exposure to intense heat or direct sunlight which may cause some dark specimens to fade over time.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is determined by clarity and depth of color. Low price range compared to precious gems. Often heat-treated to darken light specimens or lighten nearly black ones.
Special Characteristics
Can contain needle-like rutile inclusions (Rutilated) or 'phantom' growth layers. This specific piece exhibits internal reflections and possible conchoidal chipping.
Lore & History
Historically used in 12th-century China for the first 'sunglasses.' Symbolically associated with grounding, protection, and the root chakra in traditional crystal healing lore.