mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine or Quartzite Pebble)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous/Waxy (tumbled), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous/Waxy (tumbled), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the crystallization of silica-rich fluids in hydrothermal veins or as a constituent of igneous and metamorphic rocks. This specific specimen appears to be a water-worn or tumbled river pebble.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (as citrine), as a collector's specimen, or for spiritual/metaphysical purposes. Common quartz is also used in glassmaking and abrasives.

Geological facts

Naturally yellow quartz is quite rare; much of the yellow quartz sold commercially is actually heat-treated amethyst. When natural, the color is often caused by trace amounts of iron.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in riverbeds, beaches, and mountainous regions worldwide. It is a very durable and stable mineral.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral