Yellow Quartz (Citrine or Quartz Crystal with Iron Inclusions)

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, honey-gold, to smoky-tan; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, as well as in hydrothermal veins. Yellow coloration is often the result of iron impurities or natural irradiation during the cooling of magma over millions of years.

Uses & Applications

Commonly used in jewelry as a semi-precious gemstone (Citrine), for metaphysical stone collecting, and in decorative lapidary arts. Industrial quartz is used in glass making and electronics.

Geological Facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its ability to scratch glass (Hardness 7), lack of cleavage, and translucent yellow-to-brownish hue. Common in gravel beds and mountain runoff. Collectors should look for waxy or glassy surfaces and high clarity.

Identified on: 4/17/2026

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