Rock Identifier
Tumbled quartz pebble, possibly citrine or pale smoky quartz (Quartz (SiO₂), likely microcrystalline/tumbled material) — mineral
mineral

Tumbled quartz pebble, possibly citrine or pale smoky quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), likely microcrystalline/tumbled material

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-yellow to gray-brown, vitreous luster, rounded polished surface, and no visible cleavage; quartz has Mohs hardness 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. Internal veils and fractures are typical of natural quartz.

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Physical properties

Translucent honey-yellow to gray-brown, vitreous luster, rounded polished surface, and no visible cleavage; quartz has Mohs hardness 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. Internal veils and fractures are typical of natural quartz.

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids and igneous melts; yellow coloration may result from iron impurities or heat treatment. The specimen’s geological age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative stone, jewelry bead, crystal specimen, and abrasive; quality transparent material may be faceted as citrine. Common tumbled pieces have modest value.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Citrine is naturally uncommon, so much commercial “citrine” is heat-treated amethyst.

Field identification & locations

Common in quartz veins, pegmatites, metamorphic rocks, and alluvial gravels worldwide, especially Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States. A glass scratch test can help confirm hardness, but treatment and exact variety require testing.