Smoky Quartz, a captivating variety of the mineral Quartz, is renowned for its enchanting color spectrum, ranging from a near-black to a smoky brown hue. Despite its widespread availability, which renders it less valuable than its counterparts citrine and amethyst, Smoky Quartz holds a unique charm that continues to captivate gem enthusiasts. The subtle gradation between smoky and colorless Quartz adds to its allure, while its coloration, often attributed to irradiation and aluminum traces within its crystal structure, is sometimes thought to be influenced by cosmic radiation rather than terrestrial sources.
Smoky Quartz is a macrocrystalline form of silicon dioxide (SiO2) and owes its distinctive color to natural irradiation and the presence of aluminum impurities within its crystalline matrix. The process of irradiation, whether from natural radioactive sources or cosmic rays, leads to the alteration of the crystal's color. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the color of Smoky Quartz can be restored through artificial irradiation if it fades due to heat exposure, which is a common practice in the gemstone industry.
The homogeneity of Smoky Quartz's color sets it apart from other quartz varieties like amethyst. Deeply colored or almost black specimens typically originate from igneous rocks. When subjected to temperatures around 200°C, genuine Smoky Quartz will lose its color, but it can regain its smoky appearance through exposure to X-rays or gamma rays. Unlike amethyst, Smoky Quartz is less sensitive to ultraviolet light, although prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause it to fade. Some Smoky Quartz crystals exhibit zones of yellow or violet, creating intriguing "phantom" layers within the stone.
Smoky Quartz exhibits dichroism, meaning it can display two different colors when viewed from different angles in polarized light. This optical property can cause the crystal to shift from red-brown to yellow-brown when rotated around its a-axis.
The practice of artificially irradiating colorless Quartz to mimic Smoky Quartz is widespread. However, it is challenging for consumers to discern whether the coloration is natural or artificial. Ethical dealers are required to disclose any artificial treatments, but compliance is not universal, and some may sell treated Quartz without proper labeling.
Smoky Quartz is commonly found in intrusive igneous and high-grade metamorphic rocks, which often contain radioactive elements that contribute to the stone's color. Its occurrence in volcanic rocks is rarer, with colorless Quartz and amethyst being more prevalent. In sedimentary rocks, genuine Smoky Quartz is unusual due to the typically low levels of radioactive elements. Many specimens from these environments are not true Smoky Quartz but rather Quartz with brown or black inclusions.
In conclusion, Smoky Quartz is a gemstone with a rich history and intriguing properties. Its widespread availability and unique characteristics make it a favorite among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Whether naturally colored or enhanced through human intervention, Smoky Quartz continues to be a gemstone that captures the imagination.
Difference Between Condominiums and Apartments
Have you ever wondered why some people call their place of residence a condominium and others an apartment? Though these two terms are usually used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. Condos (or also called as condominiums) and apartments are very similar. There is no way we can know whether it is an apartment or a condominium by just looking at the building, or even visiting it. But in fact, there are differences and that also significant ones.
Difference Between Townhouse and Duplex
Duplexes and townhouses are different in their construction. A duplex is a two storey building but each storey has its own entrance so that two families can live in that building. A town home or also called as townhouse, is a row of houses attached to other houses.
Difference Between Concrete and Asphalt - Which is Stronger
Both asphalt and concrete are popular and strong materials to pave driveways and roads with. These two durable materials perform well in the rain and cold and can last for many years if they are maintained well. However, each has its advantages and disadvantages:
