mineral

Tumbled citrine quartz (probable)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), yellow variety commonly called citrine

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent pale yellow to honey-colored material with vitreous luster and irregular conchoidal fracture; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, lacks cleavage, and has a hexagonal crystal structure. The rounded, polished form indicates human processing; inclusions or cloudiness are visible.

Identified September 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Natural citrine forms when iron-bearing quartz develops its yellow color during hydrothermal or igneous processes; much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. Quartz is widespread in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments, with formation ages varying from ancient to recent.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone, ornamental stone, and collector specimen; tumbled pieces are inexpensive jewelry and décor materials.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is relatively uncommon compared with heat-treated amethyst, which often shows deeper orange coloration and may have reddish tips. It can be confused with yellow glass or pale yellow quartz varieties.

Field identification & locations

Check for quartz’s glassy luster, hardness, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, Spain, and the United States.