mineral

Tumbled yellow quartz (likely citrine)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂); yellow color may be natural citrine or heat-treated amethyst

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; translucent yellow, vitreous luster, irregular conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, hexagonal crystal structure. The rounded edges indicate tumbling or polishing.

Identified August 31, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled yellow quartz (likely citrine)
Scientific name: Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂); yellow color may be natural citrine or heat-treated amethyst
Category: mineral
Identified: August 31, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for a small tumbled piece; $20–$150+ for attractive natural citrine specimens, depending on color, clarity, size, and provenance.

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 yellow, vitreous luster, irregular conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, hexagonal crystal structure. The rounded edges indicate tumbling or polishing.

Formation & geological history

Citrine forms mainly in silica-rich hydrothermal veins and cavities, commonly associated with granite and pegmatite; natural citrine is relatively rare, while much commercial material is heat-treated amethyst. Quartz formed throughout geologic time in many settings.

Uses & applications

Used as an inexpensive gemstone, jewelry stone, ornament, and collector specimen. Clear, strongly colored stones have greater value.

Geological facts

Natural citrine usually shows even pale yellow to honey coloration; heat-treated amethyst may have orange tones and reddish bases. Color alone cannot reliably distinguish them without testing.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, Spain, and Zambia. Confirm identity with hardness, quartz-like conchoidal fracture, and gemological testing; avoid confusing it with yellow glass, fluorite, or calcite.