mineral

Tumbled quartz pebble, possibly citrine or iron-stained quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), likely microcrystalline or granular quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded translucent yellow-brown specimen with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is Mohs 7, specific gravity about 2.65, and it has a hexagonal crystal structure. Surface texture and color may result from tumbling and iron-oxide staining.

Identified September 8, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled quartz pebble, possibly citrine or iron-stained quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz forms in igneous, hydrothermal, and sedimentary environments across a wide range of geological ages; yellow coloration can arise from iron impurities or natural irradiation. The rounded shape indicates water wear or human tumbling.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative/collectible stone, gemstone material, abrasives, and in glass and electronics; this small piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

True citrine is relatively uncommon, while much marketed citrine is heat-treated amethyst. A glassy luster, lack of cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife support quartz identification.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz veins, gravels, pegmatites, and geodes worldwide; test with a steel file or glass (quartz should scratch glass), but confirmatory testing is needed to distinguish citrine from stained quartz or glass.