mineral

Tumbled yellow-brown quartz (likely citrine or iron-stained quartz)

Quartz, SiO₂; yellow color may result from iron impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-yellow to brown, glassy luster, irregular internal clouding; Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, no true cleavage. The image does not show diagnostic crystal faces, so the exact variety cannot be confirmed visually.

Identified September 30, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled yellow-brown quartz (likely citrine or iron-stained quartz) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich fluids in veins and cavities; iron staining or heat treatment can produce yellow-brown color. Quartz occurs in rocks of many ages.

Uses & applications

Used for jewelry, ornaments, and collecting; quartz is also important in glassmaking and electronics.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is relatively uncommon; much commercial material sold as citrine is heat-treated amethyst or iron-bearing quartz.

Field identification & locations

A scratch test and examination under magnification can help distinguish quartz from softer look-alikes; common worldwide in veins and pegmatites. Its smooth shape suggests it has been tumbled or naturally water-worn.