mineral

Yellow Quartz / Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: White to pale yellow with orange-yellow zoning; Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: White to pale yellow with orange-yellow zoning
Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished)

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen appears to be a water-worn or tumble-polished river pebble where iron impurities have caused the yellowish staining.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for lapidary arts, jewelry, meditation stones, and as decorative collectibles.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is rare; many yellow quartz specimens are low-grade amethyst or smoky quartz that has been heat-treated. This specimen shows natural iron oxide staining common in river-harvested quartz pebbles.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass (hardness 7) and its lack of cleavage. Look for internal fractures and 'cloudy' areas that distinguish it from colored glass. Commonly found in river beds and mountainous regions globally.

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