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Crystals
Smoky Quartz: A Misty Gemstone Gifted by the Earth
15
Apr
Apr
Smoky Quartz is a mysterious and fascinating gemstone that ranges in color from a light smoky grey to a deep chocolate brown, as if it had been soaked in the mists of the earth’s depths.
This crystal not only has a unique beauty but is also believed by many to have powerful energy and protective properties. Whether you use it as a collector’s item, jewelry, or a spiritual tool, smoky crystals appeal to people with their understated and profound appeal.
Origin and Formation of Smoky Quartz
Smoky quartz belongs to the quartz family and derive their color from the effects of natural radiation.
Deep in the earth’s crust, smoky quartz crystals are exposed to traces of radioactive elements (such as uranium or thorium) in the surrounding rocks. Therefore gradually forms shades of smoky brown.
The higher the intensity of the radiation, the darker the color of the smoky crystal, which may even approach black.
Sometimes, some very dark smoky crystals are referred to as Morion.
Because of the rarity of dark brown or black stones, they are also very expensive. So, when the price factor is taken into consideration, smoky quartz has a high-end aesthetic that fits any budget.
Although smoky quartz is often labeled as a “niche gemstone,” it is actually found all over the world, from the highlands of Scotland to the rainforests of Brazil, from the snow-capped mountains of Xinjiang to the valleys of Colorado. Scientists love its geological stories, designers love its understated elegance, and spiritual enthusiasts see it as an “energy keeper.”
Smoky Quartz vs Citrine
What’s funny, smoke crystals and another beautiful gemstone, citrine, are actually “close relatives.” Both of them belong to the quartz family and are essentially silica (SiO₂) crystals with exactly the same chemical composition.
However, the crystal structure of the smoke crystals is changed by natural radiation, forming a smoky gray to dark brown. Natural citrine is rare, and most citrine is converted from smoke crystals after high-temperature heating. The high temperature removes the soot hue and gives the crystal a golden to orange-yellow color.
The History of Smoky Quartz
Smoke quartz has a long history and is considered a sacred stone. Open the books of history, we can always find traces of it.
The history of smoky quartz crystals can be traced back to the ancient Celts. The Celts of the Scottish Highlands embedded smoke crystals in weapons, believing that they absorbed the fear and death energies of the battlefield and kept their warriors awake and bold.
Meditation partner for Tibetan monks: In Tibetan Buddhism, dark smoke crystals are called “black gold gang” and are used to make rosary beads to help practitioners dispel distractions and focus on inner awareness.
Mourning jewelry in the Victorian era: In 19th century Europe, smoke quartz were made into brooches or pendants because of their solemn tone to express the memory of the deceased. It means “the fog will eventually clear, and the light will remain forever.”
The Symbolic Meaning and Spiritual Properties of Smoky Quartz
In many cultures, smoky quartz is regarded as a powerful protective stone. Its energy is believed to absorb negative emotions, help people get rid of anxiety, fear and stress, and bring stability and a sense of security. Some mediators tend to use smoky quartz to help them root in reality and boost willpower, especially when faced with big decisions.
In addition, smoky quartz is often used for energy cleaning. Many people believe it purifies negative energy from the environment and even blocks electromagnetic radiation (such as from computers or mobile phones), so some people keep it near their desks or electronic devices.
The Usage and Care of Smoky Quartz
The hardness of smoky quartz is 7 (on the Mohs scale), which makes them hard enough for everyday wear. Whether it is made into a ring, pendant or bracelet, smoky quartz shows understated elegance. Darker smoky quartz is especially suited for men’s jewelry, while lighter smoky quartz is more gentle and versatile for various occasion and styles.
In terms of maintenance, smoky quartz doesn’t require particularly complicated care. You just simply clean it with mild soapy water, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun (strong sunlight may cause the color to fade), and keep it away from heat. Due to its energetic properties, regular rinsing under running water or placing it under moonlight for purification can help revitalize it.
Some Interesting Truths about Smoky Quartz
1. Do smoked crystals radiate? Is it safe for your body?
Although the smoky quartz is formed by the radiation of trace radioactive elements in the stone (such as uranium or thorium), after the uplift of the crust movement and natural weathering, this gem has long been far away from the radiation source and has become a safe, natural art.
2. The price of natural smoky quartz is more commercial.
Because the color is easy to change through radiation, the price of natural smoky quartz is usually cheaper than treated ones!
3. The astronaut’s lucky stone
NASA astronauts have carried raw smoky quart stone into the sky, meaning “from the center of the earth to the universe, the guardian is always with you.”
4 Victorian-era “civilian diamonds”
Artisans use smoke crystals to create jewelry that mimics black diamonds for a hundredth of the cost of real diamonds.
5. The “Two-sided life” of Smoky quartz
On one crystal, there maybe smoky quartz at one end and transparent quartz at the other end, forming a wonderful “yin-yang symbiosis.”
6. Do animals love smoky quartz as much as humans?
Some crystal therapists believe that placing smoky quartz near a pet’s home relieves anxiety in animals.
Conclusion
The Smoky Crystal accompanies people with its warm and steady colors like a silent and wise guardian. Whether you are drawn to its beauty or value its spiritual effects, this misty gemstone from the depths of the earth can add a serene power to your life. If you’re looking for a gemstone that adorns you and brings you inner peace, the smoky quartz may be just the one for you!