mineral

Yellow Quartz Pebble

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to honey; Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to honey
Luster: Vitreous/Waxy

Identified May 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to honey; Luster: Vitreous/Waxy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or crystallization from igneous magma. This specimen has been water-worn and smoothed by alluvial processes in a river or stream bed.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for garden landscaping, decorative stone, glass manufacturing, or as a semi-precious gemstone in jewelry when high quality.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. The yellow color is often attributed to trace amounts of iron impurities or natural irradiation.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its lack of cleavage, and its translucent quality. Often found in riverbeds or gravel pits.