mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine Quartz or Yellow Jasper)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale yellow to golden honey. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy when water-rounded. Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to golden honey
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy when water-rounded

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or within igneous pegmatites. This specific specimen appears to be a beach pebble, indicating it has been eroded from its primary source and tumbled by water action over thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Used in gemstone jewelry, metaphysical practices, and as a component in glass making or abrasives when found in large quantities. Tumbled beach specimens are popular for amateur collectors and rock tumbling hobbies.

Geological facts

Natural yellow quartz is often the result of trace amounts of iron within the crystal lattice. On beaches, these smooth stones are often referred to as 'sea glass's natural equivalent' or 'gold stones' by beachcombers.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its translucency (light passes through edges) and its ability to scratch glass. It is commonly found on coastlines with high silica content, such as those in the Pacific Northwest or UK. Collectors should look for uniform color and lack of deep internal fractures.

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