mineral

Yellow Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to honey-orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to honey-orange
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy

Identified July 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to honey-orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms in pneumatic and hydrothermal veins, or as a constituent of igneous rocks like granite. The yellow hue is often caused by iron inclusions or natural irradiation during crystallization.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, lapidary work (tumbling/polishing), and as a collector's specimen. Frequently used in metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust. Specimens like this one, which are water-worn and river-tumbled, are common in stream beds worldwide.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent yellow-brown color. Common in river gravels and areas with high quartz vein activity.