mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine or Iron-stained Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7.0 Mohs; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7
Color: Pale yellow to golden honey
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.0 Mohs; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites. The yellow color is typically caused by iron impurities or natural irradiation. This specimen likely weathered out of a host rock and was smoothed by water transport (beach/river action).

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry as a semi-precious gemstone, in crystal healing practices, as decorative landscaping stone, and as a source of silica in glass manufacturing.

Geological facts

Naturally occurring yellow quartz (Citrine) is rare; most 'citrine' in the market is actually heat-treated amethyst. When found as a beach pebble, it is often referred to as a 'sea bean' or 'gold stone' by collectors.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent 'glowy' appearance when held to light. Frequently found along coastal beaches and riverbeds where quartz veins have eroded.

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