mineral

Yellow chalcedony (likely citrine-colored quartz)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂ (chalcedony); yellow color likely from iron impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; translucent yellow to honey-yellow, waxy to slightly vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, no visible cleavage, conchoidal fracture; specific gravity about 2.60–2.65.

Identified September 12, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Yellow chalcedony (likely citrine-colored quartz)
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂ (chalcedony); yellow color likely from iron impurities
Category: mineral
Identified: September 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for a common rough piece; $20–$100+ if unusually translucent, intensely colored, or fashioned into quality jewelry.

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 6.5–7; translucent yellow to honey-yellow, waxy to slightly vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, no visible cleavage, conchoidal fracture; specific gravity about 2.60–2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater deposits quartz in cavities, fractures, and volcanic rocks; commonly Cenozoic to younger, though chalcedony occurs in rocks of nearly all ages.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary material for cabochons, carvings, beads, and decorative objects; attractive translucent pieces may be sold as yellow chalcedony or “honey quartz.”

Geological facts

The specimen appears naturally rough or lightly worn rather than highly polished. Similar-looking yellow materials include lemon quartz, jasper, calcite, and dyed chalcedony.

Field identification & locations

Field clues include waxy luster, translucent edges, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and conchoidal fracture; it is commonly found in volcanic cavities and silica-rich gravels worldwide, including Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, and the western United States.