Comparison · Quartz Family
Clear Quartz vs Smoky Quartz
Clear Quartz and Smoky Quartz are easy to confuse because both are quartz family. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Clear Quartz and Smoky Quartz
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
Clear Quartz vs Smoky Quartz properties
| Property | Clear Quartz | Smoky Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 7 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | transparent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 | 2.65 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Colorless, White | Brown, Gray, Black |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$200+ | $5–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Smoky Quartz is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $30 against $25 for Clear Quartz, and premium Smoky Quartz can reach $150 or more.
About Clear Quartz
Clear quartz, also known as rock crystal, is the purest form of quartz. It's been used for jewelry, carvings, and spiritual purposes throughout history.
About Smoky Quartz
Smoky quartz is a brown to black variety of quartz colored by natural irradiation. The national gem of Scotland, it ranges from light tan to nearly opaque black.
Clear Quartz vs Smoky Quartz FAQ
Is Clear Quartz the same as Smoky Quartz?
No. Both are quartz family, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Clear Quartz from Smoky Quartz?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
Which is harder, Clear Quartz or Smoky Quartz?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 7.
Which is more valuable, Clear Quartz or Smoky Quartz?
Smoky Quartz is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $30 against $25 for Clear Quartz, and premium Smoky Quartz can reach $150 or more.
