Smoky Quartz

Smoky quartz develops its distinct dusky-brown to grey hues through a natural process. Trace amounts of aluminum within the quartz lattice interact with natural radiation deep within the earth's crust over millions of years, trapping silicon and altering the color. Brazilian specimens are celebrated for forming well-defined hexagonal crystals, ranging from translucent, light-whispy points to deep, opaque, near-black clusters. Like all quartz, Brazilian smoky quartz registers at a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it highly durable for everyday wear and lapidary use. 

Common Treatments

While authentic, untreated natural smoky quartz exists, it can be expensive and difficult to source in large or gem-quality sizes. A large portion of commercial smoky quartz from Brazil undergoes heat treatment. This process artificially darkens lighter quartz to mimic the deep, highly coveted cognac or smoky-brown colors. Collectors and enthusiasts value natural, untreated stones, so it is always recommended to verify the origin and treatment status with the seller. 

Market and Pricing

Because smoky quartz is an abundant mineral globally, Brazilian material is generally affordable, though prices scale up significantly based on the quality of the crystal point, size, and level of natural clarity. Smaller rough or tumbled pieces often start around $12, while large, high-quality, 9-inch natural crystal points from Minas Gerais can easily cost upwards of $500 to $540.