About Smoky Quartz

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Keep reading to discover more about Smoky Quartz

  • Mineralogy and geology*
  • Metaphysical, Spiritual and Healing** Properties***
  • Common Associations

The properties of smoky quartz are identical to Quartz  except for

Color: pale grey to dark black, sometimes brownish. Can transition to purple (smoky amethyst) or yellow (smoky citrine). The color is due to natural or induced radiation.

Names: other names for smoky quartz include morion (used for a dark brown to black variety in parts of Europe), and cairngorm (in Scotland, usually a lighter grey to yellowish color).

 

Smoky Quartz is the gray, brown to black variety of quartz.  The name refers to its appearance - resembling smoke.  moky quartz can be faceted as a grey to brown gemstone.  

The mineralogical properties and occurrence of smoky quartz are the same as quartz other than color. Visit the quartz page for more information.

The coloration of smoky quartz is considered to be caused by exposure to natural gamma radiation from host rocks over long periods of time. Trace amounts of Al+3 ions that naturally replace a few Si+4 ions in the lattice form an AlO4/metal color center, giving rise to the dark color.

Smoky quartz is mainly associated with igneous rocks and pegmatites.  Crystals grown at relatively high-temperatures like those found in pegmatites and alpine-type fissures are often evenly colored, whereas crystals from other environments often show a color zonation in the form of multiple phantoms.  

Spiritual, Metaphysical and Healing Properties

The dark color and energy of smoky quartz links it to the root chakra, related to the deep, body knowing of belonging on this physical earth, drawing spiritual energy from the crown down through all the chakras.  As with clear quartz, smoky quartz is a powerful amplifier of energy. The strong sense of rightfully belonging on this Earth enhances feelings of confidence and personal power. It was known as a “stone of power.” By supporting one’s inner, higher strength, it helps protect from external negative energies, allowing them to be released to the Earth and neutralized. Smoky quartz can be used to gently dissolve negative energies and emotional blockages.  It softens negative energy…an excellent grounding stone. It is a traditional stone for protections.

Common Associations

  • Chakra – base
  • Numerology - vibrates to the numbers 2 and 8
  • Feng shui – bagua area of qian (benefactors, helpful people, travel)
  • Zodiac – Capricorn, Sagittarius
  • Birthstone – none traditional, but can be used for November
  • Wedding Anniversary – none traditional

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* Mineralogical information is from mindat.org

** Always consult with your medical professional for any physical or long-term healing issues.

*** Metaphysical properties come from: 

Love Is in the Earth (1995) Melody, Earth-Love Publishing House, 726 pp.

The Crystal Bible, A Definitive Guide to Crystals (2003) Judy Hall, Walking Stick Press, 399 pp.

Crystal Muse (2017) Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro, Hay House, 285 pp.

Crystal Gridwork (2018) Kiera Fogg, Weiser Books, 128 pp.