Smoky Quartz
Quartz var. Smoky Quartz (Morion if near black) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically prismatic crystals under natural conditions, though this specimen is carved into a polished heart shape.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with traces of Aluminum and natural irradiation)
Formation Process
Magmatic/Hydrothermal; forms in igneous environments (pegmatites) or hydrothermal veins where trace aluminum is present and the crystal is exposed to natural gamma radiation from surrounding rocks.
About This Crystal
A heart-shaped polished specimen displaying a dark, translucent brownish-grey to smoky black color. It shows a vitreous (glassy) luster with visible internal fractures and surface veining characteristic of natural quartz.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Smoky brown to black; Streak: White; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually none; Transparency: Translucent to opaque (saturated Morion style).
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009 (uniaxial positive); Pleochroism: Weak/Distinct in shades of brown.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, USA (Colorado/New Hampshire), and the Swiss Alps. Forms primarily in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Fair to good (brittle); Stability: Excellent, though heat treatment can turn it yellow (Citrine).
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if internal fractures are present; avoid high heat which can alter the color.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is determined by clarity, depth of color, and the quality of the carving. Irradiated clear quartz is often sold as smoky quartz, though natural specimens are abundant.
Special Characteristics
Color originates from the displacement of electrons in aluminum-containing quartz due to natural radioactivity. It may contain needle-like rutile inclusions or phantoms in natural crystal forms.
Lore & History
Historically used in the 12th century for the first sunglasses in China. In crystal lore, it is regarded as a powerful 'grounding' stone associated with the Root Chakra and protection against negative energy.