Rock Identifier
Carved yellow chalcedony (likely citrine-colored quartz or agate) (Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; chalcedony/agate variety, possibly heat-treated or dyed) — gemstone
gemstone

Carved yellow chalcedony (likely citrine-colored quartz or agate)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; chalcedony/agate variety, possibly heat-treated or dyed

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; honey-yellow to brown-yellow, translucent, waxy-to-glassy luster, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The beads and carved ornament are polished and shaped.

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Physical properties

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; honey-yellow to brown-yellow, translucent, waxy-to-glassy luster, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The beads and carved ornament are polished and shaped.

Formation & geological history

Chalcedony forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities and fractures, commonly in volcanic rocks; coloration comes from iron impurities or treatment. The geological age depends on the source, often Cenozoic to older volcanic-hosted deposits.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, and decorative jewelry; durable but less valuable than fine transparent citrine or natural rare-color agate.

Geological facts

The pictured material is not identifiable to an exact variety from appearance alone; yellow chalcedony is frequently marketed as citrine, honey jade, or yellow agate. Acid testing, refractive index, and spectroscopy can distinguish quartz from look-alike glass or resin.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, Mexico, and China. Field clues are coolness, substantial weight, uniform waxy translucency, lack of bubbles, and resistance to scratching by steel; carved details indicate human processing.