mineral

Raw yellow-brown crystal, likely citrine or honey calcite

Citrine: quartz (SiO₂); possible honey calcite: calcite (CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small translucent yellow-brown, vitreous specimen with irregular crystal faces and visible internal striations. Citrine has Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, and specific gravity ~2.65; calcite is softer (Mohs 3), has rhombohedral cleavage, and specific gravity ~2.71.

Identified September 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Citrine forms in silica-rich hydrothermal cavities, commonly through heat treatment or natural alteration of amethyst; honey calcite forms in limestone and hydrothermal veins. A precise geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Citrine is used as a gemstone and collector mineral; calcite is used in cement, lime, aggregates, optics, and collecting.

Geological facts

The photograph alone cannot distinguish citrine from yellow calcite or other iron-stained minerals. A steel scratch test, streak test, and acid reaction can help, but may damage the specimen.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Spain for citrine, and Mexico, the United States, and Europe for calcite. Check whether it scratches glass (citrine) or shows strong cleavage/effervescence in dilute acid (calcite).