mineral

Honey-colored quartz crystal

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), likely iron-stained or included quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; translucent honey-yellow to amber color, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and no prominent cleavage. Quartz is trigonal and has specific gravity about 2.65; the rough surface appears naturally fractured rather than well-crystallized.

Identified September 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cool in cavities, veins, or hydrothermal systems; yellow coloration commonly results from iron-oxide staining or mineral inclusions. The specimen’s precise geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for glass, electronics, abrasives, and ornamental stone; attractive transparent pieces may be cut as gemstones, though this specimen appears mainly collectible rather than jewelry grade.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is the defining component of many geodes and hydrothermal veins. Its conchoidal fracture can resemble glass, but quartz is substantially harder.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness—quartz scratches ordinary glass—plus vitreous luster, translucency, and lack of cleavage; avoid confusing it with softer amber or calcite. Common worldwide in veins, geodes, and igneous rocks.