mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine/Yellow Jasper mix)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to buttery tan; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (especially when tumbled); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to buttery tan
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (especially when tumbled)

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites where silica-rich fluids cool or through the accumulation of silica in sedimentary environments. Its yellow hue is often due to iron impurities or natural irradiation.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in the jewelry industry as a semi-precious gemstone (often labeled as citrine), used in decorative aquarium gravel, and very popular in the metaphysical and rock-collecting communities.

Geological facts

Many yellow quartz stones found in pebble form are actually 'river-worn' quartz that have absorbed iron staining over thousands of years. Natural citrine is quite rare; most bright yellow commercial quartz is heat-treated amethyst.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass) and lack of visible grains. It is commonly found in riverbeds, beaches, and glacial till worldwide, particularly in areas with metamorphic or igneous bedrock.

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