mineral

Yellow Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to honey-orange; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to honey-orange
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to honey-orange; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, as well as hydrothermal veins. This specimen likely formed from silica-rich fluids precipitating in rock cavities.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (as citrine or yellow quartz), glass manufacturing, electronics (due to piezoelectric properties), and as decorative collector specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Yellow varieties often transition into more saturated Citrine or smoky quartz depending on trace impurities like iron.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent yellow color. Commonly found in riverbeds, mountains, and pegmatite deposits worldwide.