mineral

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

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), colored yellow by iron impurities; possibly heat-treated amethyst

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; translucent honey-yellow color, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Quartz is trigonal and lacks cleavage; the rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural abrasion.

Identified August 19, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled yellow quartz (likely citrine or iron-stained quartz)
Scientific name: Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), colored yellow by iron impurities; possibly heat-treated amethyst
Category: mineral
Identified: August 19, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a small tumbled or treated piece; $20–$100+ for attractive natural faceted citrine.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Mohs hardness 7; translucent honey-yellow color, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Quartz is trigonal and lacks cleavage; the rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural abrasion.

Formation & geological history

Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids and igneous rocks, commonly in cavities and veins; its age depends on the host rock. Yellow coloration commonly results from iron staining or irradiation/heat treatment.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary and jewelry stone, ornament, and inexpensive collector specimen; polished pieces are widely sold as citrine. It has modest value unless strongly colored, transparent, and natural.

Geological facts

True natural citrine is relatively uncommon; much commercial “citrine” is heat-treated purple amethyst. The photograph alone cannot reliably distinguish citrine from yellow glass, resin, or treated quartz.

Field identification & locations

Check for glassy luster, hardness, and irregular internal veils; quartz should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, and Spain.