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 incorrect

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.

Identified September 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished yellow quartz (likely citrine or iron-stained quartz)
Scientific name: Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), colored yellow by iron impurities; exact variety cannot be confirmed visually
Category: mineral
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$25 for a common polished piece; $30–$150+ for attractive, confirmed natural citrine.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

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.