Quartz var Smoky

A glassy surface and deep dark smoky color set this jewel of a crystal apart. One termination (bottom) was in contact at the very bottom, which is not apparent when viewing in display. The other termination contacted matrix but is complete (interference growth termination). It sits on a perthite matrix. Backlit the crystal is translucent. The luster is lost in these photos, but it is quite good. Ex Ken Roberts collection.

Locality: Dogtooth Peak, Fresno County, California

Composition: Oxide of silicon