mineral

Yellow Quartz Pebble (Citrine or Iron-Stained Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, honey-gold, or translucent brownish; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow, honey-gold, or translucent brownish
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes or within pegmatites. This specific specimen is a 'river pebble,' meaning its smooth, rounded shape was created by water erosion and transport over long periods, likely in a stream or beach environment.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (as a semi-precious gemstone), lapidary art (tumbling and polishing), and sometimes in decorative landscaping or as a metaphysical 'healing' stone.

Geological facts

Natural yellow quartz is often called 'the merchant's stone' because it was historically believed to attract wealth. Most bright yellow quartz in the commercial market is actually heat-treated amethyst, though natural iron-stained river pebbles like this one get their color from limonite or hematite inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), its smooth water-worn texture, and its lack of visible grains. It is extremely common in gravel pits, riverbeds, and glacial till across North America and Europe.

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