Smoky Quartz identification and geology

Browse this collection and related resources

• Browse all mineral identification entries — Compare this entry with the complete GeoMiner minerals collection.
• Previous: Smithsonite — Zinc carbonate that forms in the oxidation zone of zinc ore deposits. Named after James Smithson, founder of the Smithsonian.
• Next: Sodalite — Sodium aluminum silicate chloride with rich royal blue color. Member of the sodalite mineral group.
• Topaz
• Andalusite
• Axinite

Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner

GeoMiner

Last updated

2026-03-30T14:36:39.580286+00:00

Review status

Published; not independently peer-reviewed

• IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
• Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

Read GeoMiner's editorial methodology or report a content issue.

Common questions

What is Smoky Quartz?

Brown to black variety of quartz colored by natural irradiation of aluminum-containing silicon dioxide.

How can you identify Smoky Quartz?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Brown to black; lustre: Vitreous; streak: White; Mohs hardness: 7; cleavage: None conchoidal fracture; crystal system: Hexagonal Trigonal; transparency: Transparent to translucent. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Smoky Quartz form?

Forms in granite pegmatites and hydrothermal veins exposed to natural radiation from surrounding rocks.

Where is Smoky Quartz commonly found?

Swiss Alps, Brazil, Colorado, Scotland; common in granitic pegmatites.

What is Smoky Quartz commonly confused with?

Smoky Quartz may be confused with Topaz, Andalusite, Axinite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.