mineral
Yellow Chalcedony
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Chalcedony
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: translucent yellow to amber; Luster: waxy to vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.6
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- translucent yellow to amber
- Luster
- waxy to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: translucent yellow to amber; Luster: waxy to vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.6
Formation & geological history
Formed via precipitation of silica-rich fluids in volcanic rocks, sedimentary cavities, or hydrothermal veins. Often found as rounded pebbles due to water erosion.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry as cabochons, for ornamental carvings, and as decorative tumbling stones. Primarily a collector and metaphysical stone.
Geological facts
Chalcedony is a cryptocrystalline form of silica. Yellow varieties are often associated with sunlight and vitality in folklore and were used in ancient cylinder seals.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its waxy luster, translucency, and inability to be scratched by a steel blade. Commonly found on beaches or in riverbeds where volcanic rocks have eroded.
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Metamorphic
Epidote
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metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous