mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine appearance)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale yellow to translucent cream. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy when polished. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to translucent cream
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy when polished

Identified March 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen appears to be a water-worn or tumbled river pebble, indicating secondary transport erosion from its primary source.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry as a semi-precious gemstone (citrine), as decorative stones in landscaping, and in crystal healing practices. Quartz is also vital in electronics for its piezoelectric properties.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. While natural citrine is rare, most commercial yellow quartz is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its ability to scratch glass and its lack of cleavage. This specimen is smooth and rounded, suggesting it was found in a creek, riverbed, or beach environment where water action has polished the surface over time.

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