mineral
Likely rough citrine (yellow quartz)
Quartz, SiO₂; yellow color may result from iron impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall, translucent honey-brown fragment with a vitreous luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no true cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The image is too small to confirm the identification or assess crystal form.
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Physical properties
Small, translucent honey-brown fragment with a vitreous luster; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no true cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The image is too small to confirm the identification or assess crystal form.
Formation & geological history
Quartz forms in silica-rich igneous and hydrothermal environments and in veins; citrine’s color commonly develops from trace iron and heating. Quartz occurs across many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Quartz is used in glass, electronics, abrasives, and jewelry; attractive citrine is cut as a gemstone or kept as a mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is less common than heat-treated amethyst sold as citrine; color alone cannot distinguish them.
Field identification & locations
Check for glassy luster, hardness near 7, and lack of cleavage; the pictured fragment cannot be identified confidently without close inspection or testing. Quartz is widespread worldwide.
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