Smoky Quartz
Quartz var. Smoky Quartz (IMA-approved Quartz) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal crystal system; typical habit is hexagonal prisms with pyramidal terminations; often found in massive, drusy, or geode forms.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup of the Quartz group)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with trace aluminum impurities and natural irradiation)
Formation Process
Igneous and Hydrothermal: Crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in magma or geothermal systems; color is induced by natural garnma irradiation of aluminum impurities.
About This Crystal
A translucent to transparent variety of quartz ranging from light grayish-brown to deep 'Morion' black. It displays a vitreous luster when polished, as seen in this spherical bead, with a uniform, smoky brown color saturation.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Smoky brown; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: None to weak violet.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Birefringence: 0.009 (Uniaxial positive); Pleochroism: Weak to distinct in shades of brown; Dispersion: 0.013; Singly refractive.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Switzerland, Scotland (Cairngorm), Madagascar, USA (Colorado/Arkansas); typically found in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good; Stability: Stable; Excellent wearability for all jewelry types including rings and bracelets.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water; safe for ultrasonic cleaners. Avoid prolonged exposure to intense heat or direct sunlight, which can occasionally cause color fading.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is driven by clarity and deep, even color saturation. Generally affordable, with large high-clarity specimens being reasonably priced.
Special Characteristics
Often contains rutilated inclusions or phantoms; dark varieties are called Morion, and irradiated specimens can reach near-opaque blackness.
Lore & History
Used in ancient China for sunglass lenses and by Scottish Highlanders as a ceremonial stone. Traditionally associated with grounding, protection, and the root chakra in modern crystal lore.