mineral
Yellow Quartz (Polished)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron inclusions
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to pale orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) once polished; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Honey-yellow to pale orange
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy) once polished
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to pale orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) once polished; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal processes or within igneous pegmatites. The yellow hue is typically caused by iron oxide staining or structural impurities during crystal growth. Common in Precambrian to Cenozoic geological settings.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in lapidary arts for jewelry, pocket stones, decorative home accents, and by collectors for metaphysical purposes. Specifically used for tumbled stones and bead making.
Geological facts
While naturally occurring yellow quartz exists, many bright yellow quartz stones in the market are 'Heat Treated Amethyst' (Citrine). However, this specimen appears to be a natural microcrystalline or macrocrystalline quartz with iron staining, often called 'Iron Quartz' or 'Golden Healer' by collectors.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its high hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife) and waxy to vitreous luster. Found globally, especially in Madagascar, Brazil, and the USA. In the field, look for translucent to opaque yellowish masses within quartz veins.
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