mineral

Quartz (Citrine / Golden Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous (glassy) luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, translucent to transparent, pale yellow to golden-brown coloration.

Identified July 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous (glassy) luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, translucent to transparent, pale yellow to golden-brown coloration.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks. The yellowish tint is due to sub-microscopic iron impurities or natural irradiation within the crystal structure during growth.

Uses & applications

Popular as a gemstone for jewelry, lapidary projects, crystal healing collections, and ornamental specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth's crust. Natural yellow quartz (citrine) is relatively rare compared to clear quartz, though much commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its ability to easily scratch glass (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Commonly found in quartz veins, pegmatite deposits, and river gravels worldwide (e.g., Brazil, Madagascar, USA).