mineral
Tumbled pale-yellow quartz (likely citrine or iron-stained quartz)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂); yellow color likely from iron-related impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTranslucent cream-yellow mass with a vitreous to frosted surface and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape indicates natural abrasion or tumbling, though the surface appears somewhat weathered.
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Physical properties
Translucent cream-yellow mass with a vitreous to frosted surface and no obvious cleavage; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65. The rounded shape indicates natural abrasion or tumbling, though the surface appears somewhat weathered.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich igneous, hydrothermal, and metamorphic fluids; yellow coloration may develop through iron impurities and irradiation. Its exact geological age and source cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Common quartz is used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, electronics, and engineered stone; transparent yellow material may be cut as citrine for jewelry. This specimen is likely a modest decorative or teaching sample.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is relatively uncommon; much commercial “citrine” is heat-treated amethyst. Quartz commonly shows conchoidal fracture rather than cleavage and can scratch ordinary glass.
Field identification & locations
Look for glass-like luster, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, conchoidal fracture, and lack of carbonate fizz; a streak test should be white. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the Alps, and hydrothermal veins worldwide.
