metamorphic
Yellow Quartzite (Golden Quartz)
Quartzite (primarily SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to golden honey hues; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal (granular texture); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63–2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Yellow to golden honey hues
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to golden honey hues; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal (granular texture); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63–2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone. High heat and pressure cause quartz grains to recrystallize and fuse together, creating a dense, hard rock. Typical geological ages range from Precambrian to Mesozoic.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as tumbled stones or cabochons, as decorative landscaping stones, and occasionally in construction as crushed aggregate or dimension stone due to its extreme durability.
Geological facts
Quartzite is often harder than the steel blade of a knife and can scratch glass easily. Yellow varieties get their distinct color from iron oxide impurities (limonite or goethite) trapped within the quartz matrix during formation.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its sugary, granular texture and its inability to be scratched by a steel file. It is commonly found in mountain ranges and areas with ancient tectonic activity. Collectors look for high translucency and deep golden coloring.
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