mineral

Yellow Quartz Pebble

SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with Iron Impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to mustard yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to mustard yellow
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to mustard yellow; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes in igneous or metamorphic host rocks. This specific specimen has been water-worn into a smooth river pebble, a process that can take hundreds to thousands of years.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as decorative landscaping stone, in aquarium gravel, or as tumbled pocket stones for collectors.

Geological facts

The yellow color in quartz is usually the result of iron inclusions or natural irradiation. While similar to Citrine, most common yellow river pebbles are simply iron-stained Milky Quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), smooth water-worn texture, and lack of visible crystalline faces. Can be found in riverbeds, glacial deposits, and gravel pits globally.

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