mineral

Rough quartz crystals, likely citrine-bearing quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), with iron-related yellow-brown coloration

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; translucent pale gray, honey, and orange-brown color; vitreous luster; hexagonal crystal structure; no true cleavage, producing conchoidal fractures. The pieces appear irregularly broken rather than naturally terminated.

Identified August 28, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Rough quartz crystals, likely citrine-bearing quartz
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂), with iron-related yellow-brown coloration
Category: mineral
Identified: August 28, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for this small mixed rough lot; attractive transparent natural citrine crystals may range from $10–$100+ depending on size and provenance.

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 in veins, cavities, and pegmatites; yellow-orange coloration commonly develops from iron impurities or heat alteration. Precise geological age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used for lapidary work, decorative specimens, countertops, glass, electronics, and abrasives; transparent, strongly colored pieces may be sold as citrine, though these appear lower-grade rough material.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and is piezoelectric. Natural citrine is uncommon; much commercial orange citrine is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, conchoidal fracture, and lack of cleavage; avoid confusing it with calcite, which is softer and cleaves readily. Common worldwide, especially in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and India.