1.95" Smoky Quartz Crystal with Black Aegirine Inclusions - Malawi

Smoky Quartz Crystal with Black Aegirine Inclusions - Malawi #348756

Here is an interesting association of smoky quartz and black aegirine crystals, collected from the Southern Region of Malawi, Africa. The quartz crystal contains small, needle-like inclusions of black aegirine scattered throughout, best viewed by backlighting the crystal.

Comes with an acrylic display base and mineral tack.

Aegirine is a sodium iron silicate with the chemical formula NaFeSi2O6. It is a member of the pyroxene group and it shares the same crystal structure as augite, but a different chemical composition. It typically forms long, slender crystals that can bear reddish-black, brown, black or greenish colorations.

About Smoky Quartz

Smoky quartz is a variety of quartz distinguished by its smoky gray to deep brown or nearly black coloration, a name inspired by the hazy, smoke-like appearance within the crystal. While some specimens can appear very dark or even opaque, most smoky quartz remains at least partially translucent, allowing light to pass through its internal veils and zoning. The color develops when trace amounts of aluminum within the quartz lattice are exposed to natural irradiation over geologic time, subtly altering the crystal structure and producing its characteristic smoky tones.

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