mineral
Polished yellow quartz (likely citrine or iron-stained quartz)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), colored yellow by iron impurities; exact variety cannot be confirmed visually
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 7; translucent yellow to honey-gold, vitreous to waxy polish, no obvious cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or cabochon polishing.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 7; translucent yellow to honey-gold, vitreous to waxy polish, no obvious cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or cabochon polishing.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids and igneous pegmatites; yellow coloration commonly results from iron or heat treatment. Quartz formed throughout Earth’s geologic history, with citrine deposits especially common in Brazil, Madagascar, and Uruguay.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, lapidary cabochon, and inexpensive jewelry or collecting material; quartz is also important industrially in glass, electronics, and abrasives.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is relatively uncommon; much commercial “citrine” is heat-treated amethyst. A uniform yellow color and lack of visible crystal zoning may indicate treatment or iron-stained quartz.
Field identification & locations
Look for hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture; avoid confusing it with softer yellow calcite or glass. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Spain, and the United States.
