About Smoky Quartz

Smoky quartz is a variety of crystalline quartz (silicon dioxide) that displays brown to black coloration caused by natural irradiation of aluminum-containing quartz over geological time periods, creating one of the most popular and widely recognized colored quartz varieties. This transparent to translucent gemstone ranges from pale smoky brown to deep charcoal gray and nearly black, with the darker specimens sometimes called morion, while lighter varieties show beautiful honey-brown to cognac hues. Smoky quartz forms in the same hexagonal crystal system as clear quartz but develops its distinctive coloration through natural radioactive exposure that alters the crystal structure, creating a gemstone that combines quartz's durability with sophisticated earth-tone coloration.

• Color range: Pale smoky brown to deep charcoal gray and nearly black; includes honey, cognac, and chocolate brown varieties
• Sizes: Available from small accent stones (4-5mm) to very large specimens (several pounds); excellent availability across all size ranges
• Shapes: Excellent for all applications including faceted stones, cabochons, beads, and carved pieces; transparent material shows brilliant sparkle when faceted
• Origin: Worldwide including Brazil, Scotland, Switzerland, and Colorado; Scottish cairngorm variety is particularly prized
• Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale, excellent durability for all jewelry applications including daily wear rings and bracelets
• Clarity: Ranges from transparent to translucent; darker specimens may show less transparency but maintain attractive appearance
• Natural formation: Color develops through natural irradiation over millions of years; some commercial material is artificially irradiated
• Heat sensitivity: Color may lighten or disappear with prolonged heat exposure; should be protected during jewelry repair