Smoky quartz is a brown-black variety of quartz that gets its color from gamma ray irradiation and the presence of aluminum in the crystal lattice of the mineral. Quartz has been known and appreciated since prehistoric times because it is easily available and suitable for use as a tool due to its hardness. The oldest name, reported in Greek by Theophrastus in the 4th century BC, is “krýstallos,” meaning ice. For Pliny, a Latin author of the 1st century AD, “crystallus” is “ice frozen beyond all bounds.” Quartz is one of the most common minerals in the Earth’s crust and is a significant component of many types of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. When pure, quartz forms colorless, transparent, and very hard crystals with a glass-like luster. This natural form of silicon dioxide is found in an impressive array of varieties and colors.
Dimensions
Height (cm): 4-5
Depth (cm): 1.5-2.5
Width (cm): 1.5-2.5
Weight (g): 30-35
Property
Chemical Formula: SiO2
Mohs scale: 7
Relative Density: 2.65
Crystal System: Trigonal
Metaphysical Corner
In the metaphysical world, quartz is known because it is said to amplify all types of energy, purify the aura by acting as an energy multiplier for other crystals. It also helps meditation.
