mineral
Tumbled yellow quartz (likely citrine or iron-stained quartz)
Quartz, SiO₂; yellow color from trace iron or irradiation/heat-related coloration
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTranslucent honey-yellow, vitreous luster, irregularly tumbled form, no obvious cleavage, Mohs hardness 7, specific gravity about 2.65; dark internal material may be iron-oxide or a mineral inclusion. The image is insufficient to confirm citrine versus other yellow quartz or resin-treated material.
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Physical properties
Translucent honey-yellow, vitreous luster, irregularly tumbled form, no obvious cleavage, Mohs hardness 7, specific gravity about 2.65; dark internal material may be iron-oxide or a mineral inclusion. The image is insufficient to confirm citrine versus other yellow quartz or resin-treated material.
Formation & geological history
Quartz crystallizes from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or igneous rocks; yellow varieties commonly form through iron impurities and later alteration. Geological age depends on its host deposit, ranging from Precambrian to modern hydrothermal systems.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative and lapidary stone, beads, carvings, and inexpensive jewelry; ordinary pieces have limited industrial value compared with clear quartz.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is relatively uncommon; much commercial “citrine” is heat-treated amethyst. A glass-scratch test can help, but may damage the specimen.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, Spain, and the United States. Look for quartz-like translucency, glassy luster, and hardness; bubbles or unusually uniform color may indicate glass or resin.
