mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine/Yellow Jasper mix)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide inclusions

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent yellow to brownish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Translucent yellow to brownish-yellow
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified February 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Translucent yellow to brownish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic environments, typically within pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. The yellow coloration is primarily due to trace amounts of iron impurities within the silicon dioxide lattice. This specimen appears water-worn, likely collected from a stream or alluvial deposit.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary work for cabochons and tumbled stones, inexpensive jewelry, and as a 'healing stone' in metaphysical practices. Industrial quartz is used in glass making and electronics.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most commercial yellow quartz is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. This specimen's tumbled appearance suggests it may have been naturally smoothed by river action or processed in a rock tumbler.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), absence of cleavage, and translucent yellow-gold appearance. Common in riverbeds and mountainous regions globally, particularly in Brazil, Africa, and the USA.

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