mineral

Yellow quartz pebble, likely iron-stained milky quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), colored by iron-oxide inclusions or staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent honey-yellow, with a vitreous sheen and rounded, worn surfaces; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, a trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The photo cannot confirm the exact mineral or whether the surface is naturally worn or polished.

Identified September 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz forms in many igneous, metamorphic, and hydrothermal settings; iron staining can develop during later weathering. Its age and source cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Small pieces are commonly collected or used in crafts and inexpensive jewelry; quartz is also widely used in glassmaking, electronics, and construction materials.

Geological facts

Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals. Yellow coloration may come from iron compounds and does not by itself establish that the specimen is citrine.

Field identification & locations

Look for glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, and lack of cleavage; yellow jasper or calcite can look similar. Quartz occurs worldwide, especially in veins and river gravels.