mineral
Tumbled Yellow Chalcedony / Iron-Stained Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale; translucent to sub-translucent; waxy to vitreous luster when polished; honey-yellow, amber, to brownish orange color due to iron oxide inclusions; trigonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 on Mohs scale; translucent to sub-translucent; waxy to vitreous luster when polished; honey-yellow, amber, to brownish orange color due to iron oxide inclusions; trigonal crystal system; conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, volcanic cavities, or sedimentary deposits where silica-rich fluids precipitate at relatively low temperatures. The warm yellow/brown staining is caused by micro-inclusions of iron oxides (like goethite or hematite).
Uses & applications
Used in lapidary arts, jewelry (beads, cabochons), tumbled stone collections, wire-wrapping, and ornamental crafts.
Geological facts
Chalcedony is a microcrystalline variety of quartz. When stained yellow-orange by iron, it is often called yellow chalcedony, honey agate, or carnelian depending on the exact hue and banding.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), waxy luster, lack of cleavage, and smooth rounded shape if stream-tumbled. Commonly found in riverbeds, gravel pits, and volcanic terrains worldwide.
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