Smoky Quartz Obelisk Value Guide

This contemporary Smoky Quartz Obelisk from Brazil combines the ancient Egyptian architectural form with naturally irradiated quartz. Its deep brown to black coloration makes it a highly sought-after specimen for both mineral collectors and those interested in historical symbolic monuments.

What affects the value of Smoky Quartz Obelisk?

• Color saturation and consistency, with deeper 'chocolate' tones often commanding higher prices.
• The precision of the lapidary work, specifically the sharpness of the edges and the symmetry of the point.
• Overall height and weight, as larger specimens from Brazil typically fall into the $100 range.
• Clarity of the crystal, where fewer internal fractures increase the market value.

How to Identify Smoky Quartz Obelisk?

• Look for the characteristic four-sided tapering body ending in a distinct pyramidion top.
• Verify the natural smoky hue which ranges from translucent tea-color to nearly opaque 'morion' black.
• Check for internal veils or inclusions typical of authentic Brazilian quartz rather than uniform glass imitations.
• Ensure the base is precision-cut to allow the obelisk to stand perfectly vertical without wobbling.

History of Smoky Quartz Obelisk

Smoky quartz is a variety of quartz that ranges in color from light brown to black. Its coloration is due to natural irradiation of the crystal, often from nearby radioactive minerals. It has been used for centuries in jewelry and as a protective stone in various cultures. The obelisk shape, a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape or pyramidion at the top, dates back to ancient Egypt, where they were often erected in pairs at the entrance to temples to honor the sun god Ra.