mineral
Yellow Chalcedony (Quartz Pebble)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5 - 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Honey-yellow, light brown, to amber. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.6 - 2.65.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Honey-yellow, light brown, to amber
- Luster
- Waxy to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5 - 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Honey-yellow, light brown, to amber. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Crystal structure: Microcrystalline/Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.6 - 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the deposition of silica from water solutions at low temperatures in cavities and fractures of sedimentary or volcanic rocks. Commonly smoothed by water action in riverbeds or coastal environments.
Uses & applications
Used in lapidary work, tumbling, jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative crafts, and stone collecting.
Geological facts
Yellow chalcedony gets its warm color from fine inclusions of iron oxide minerals like goethite or hematite within the microcrystalline quartz structure.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its waxy luster, smooth water-worn texture, translucent edges when backlit, and hardness (scratches glass). Commonly found in gravel beds, stream deposits, and alluvial deposits worldwide.
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