Smokey-Quartz
Smoky Quartz — Smoky Colours in the Quartz Family
Smoky quartz is a gemstone belonging to the quartz family. Its colours range from pale smoky shades to dark brown, sometimes appearing almost black.
In transparent stones, the smoky colour allows the depth of the stone and its inclusions to be seen. It can be incorporated into jewellery as a polished gemstone or a rough crystal, depending on the desired appearance.
Gemological Properties
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Quartz |
| Main chemical composition | Silicon dioxide — SiO₂ |
| Colours | Smoky grey, pale to dark brown and sometimes almost black |
| Hardness | 7 on the Mohs scale |
| Refractive index | Approximately 1.544–1.553, characteristic of quartz |
| Specific gravity | Approximately 2.65 |
| Transparency | Varies with the stone and depth of colour |
These are reference values, rather than measurements of an individual stone.
How Does the Smoky Colour Form?
The colour is related to colour centres in the crystal structure, formed by the effects of radiation on quartz containing trace amounts of aluminium.
This can occur in nature through exposure to natural radiation in the geological environment. Smoky colour can also be created through controlled irradiation treatment.
Treatments and Identification
It is important to distinguish the origin of the stone from the origin of its colour: quartz formed in nature and subsequently irradiated is a natural stone that has undergone treatment.
Dark colour alone does not establish that a stone has been treated, nor that its colour is natural. Known treatments should be disclosed, and claims about colour origin should have an appropriate basis.
Choosing a Stone for Jewellery
When choosing smoky quartz, we examine colour, transparency, inclusions, fractures and polish quality. Viewing the stone in different lighting and in motion is important.
For a polished stone, we consider proportions and the appearance of light within it. For a rough crystal, we also consider its natural shape and where the setting can support it.
Setting and Care
Quartz hardness helps resist scratching but does not prevent breakage from impact. Setting design should consider the edges and condition of the stone, particularly when using a rough crystal.
For gentle cleaning at home, use lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth. Professional cleaning should suit the condition of the stone, known treatments and the structure of the jewellery.
Sources Around the World
Brazil is a familiar source of smoky quartz, including material suitable for cutting and carving. Smoky colour alone does not establish geographical origin or the absence of treatment.
Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning — Beliefs and Traditions
This stone’s name is derived from its color, which resembles that of smoke.
It provides gentle grounding, and helps one love and cherish life. It helps one cope with the fear of life. It also calms those who suffer from nightmares, and is excellent for the treatment of sleeping problems.
Smokey-quartz is good for accompanying processes of rehabilitation from addiction, because it encourages the self-love that is lacking for those who become addicted. It helps the person come to terms with his body, heart, life and world.
This stone helps a person lovingly part with things he no longer needs.
These meanings belong to the realm of belief and symbolism. They can give jewellery personal significance, but they are not proven gemological properties or a promise of healing, protection or a change in health.
Smoky Quartz in Personal Jewellery
At TzurGems Jewelry & Gemstones, we examine the stone and plan a design suited to its colour, shape and structure. Guy’s gemological knowledge and Rafael’s craftsmanship come together to create personal jewellery that gives the stone a central place.
