mineral
Yellow Quartz or Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow with internal fractures and inclusions; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Pale yellow with internal fractures and inclusions
- Luster
- Vitreous/Glassy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow with internal fractures and inclusions; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or igneous rocks (pegmatites) through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. This specimen appears tumbled and polished from a raw crystalline state.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry making, ornamental decoration, collection, and metaphysical practices (crystal healing).
Geological facts
Much 'Citrine' on the market is actually heat-treated Amethyst, but pale yellow varieties like this are often natural macro-crystalline quartz colored by iron trace elements. It is the birthstone for November.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent to transparent appearance. Often found in riverbeds or within larger geological host rocks.
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
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