morión
Morión is a dark brown to nearly black variety of smoky quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO2). It ranges from translucent to opaque, with stones that can display a rich, uniform color. The deep tone is largely due to iron impurities and natural irradiation during formation. Morión is valued as a gemstone for jewelry and carvings, favored for its dramatic dark appearance.
The name derives from the Spanish morión, meaning “black” or “dark.” In gemology, morión is typically regarded
Physical properties commonly cited for morión include a Mohs hardness of about 7, a refractive index near
Occurrence of morión is widespread in quartz-bearing regions, with notable sources in Brazil (Minas Gerais), Madagascar,
Use and care: Morión is used in beads, cabochons, and decorative carvings. Most specimens are natural in