Morion (Black Smoky Quartz) Cluster

From collection Minéraux 1 by Robelin jean pierre

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Details

Mineral name

Description

This mineral specimen is a substantial cluster of Morion, which is the varietal name assigned to the very dark brown to black, nearly opaque form of smoky quartz. The specimen features an array of well-defined crystals that emerge from a common matrix base. The crystals exhibit the typical hexagonal prism habit characteristic of the quartz group, terminating in pyramidal points formed by rhombohedral faces. A key diagnostic feature visible on several of the larger crystal prisms is the presence of distinct horizontal striations, a natural growth phenomenon in quartz. The color of the crystals is an intense, saturated black, a result of natural irradiation of the aluminum-bearing silica. While the crystals appear opaque in this large-scale cluster, the edges of smaller crystals might show slight translucency under intense light. The luster is predominantly vitreous, providing a high degree of reflectivity on the flat crystal faces. The matrix at the base of the specimen is a contrasting light gray to off-white color, appearing more massive and less crystallized than the primary Morion points. The arrangement of the crystals is chaotic yet aesthetic, with points oriented in multiple directions, suggesting growth in an open pocket environment. The specimen appears to be in its natural state, without signs of polishing or artificial shaping.

Chemical formula

SiO2

Main color

Black

Hardness

7.00 Mohs

Conservation status

Very good

Quality level

High collector value

Crystal system

Trigonal