mineral

Yellow quartz crystal (likely citrine)

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), iron-colored variety commonly called citrine

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent yellow to honey color, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and indistinct cleavage with conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears partly polished or naturally terminated, with a cloudy white quartz zone.

Identified August 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Citrine forms when trace iron colors quartz during hydrothermal growth or heating of amethyst; natural citrine is uncommon, while much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst. Quartz crystallized in cavities and veins over many geological ages, commonly in igneous and metamorphic terrains.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary gemstone, ornamental crystal, and collector specimen; quartz is also important industrially in glass, electronics, and abrasives. Typical jewelry value is modest unless color, clarity, and cut are exceptional.

Geological facts

The yellow color may also indicate iron-stained or heat-treated quartz rather than natural citrine. A glass-scratch test should be avoided on valuable material, but quartz commonly scratches ordinary glass.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, Spain, and the United States. Confirm identity with hardness, quartz-like fracture, and absence of strong cleavage; bubbles or flow lines would suggest glass instead.