gemstone

Polished amber-like yellow stone

Likely citrine or yellow jasper; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small polished, translucent golden-yellow pebble with resinous to glassy luster. Citrine is quartz (Mohs 7, hexagonal); jasper is microcrystalline quartz (Mohs 6.5–7); amber is fossilized resin (Mohs 2–2.5) and much lighter.

Identified August 22, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

If citrine, it formed in silica-rich hydrothermal veins, commonly during late igneous activity; yellow jasper formed from silica-rich sediment or volcanic fluids. Amber formed from ancient tree resin, commonly Cretaceous–Paleogene to younger, but the image alone cannot establish age.

Uses & applications

Used as a small cabochon, bead, or decorative stone; citrine is used in jewelry, jasper for carvings and ornaments, and amber for jewelry and collecting.

Geological facts

Color and polish alone cannot distinguish these materials. Amber may float in saturated salt water and feel unusually light; quartz and jasper will scratch glass, while amber will not.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, India, and Mexico for quartz/jasper; Baltic and Dominican regions for amber. Check hardness, specific gravity, inclusions, and warm-needle or UV tests only with professional caution.