mineral

Yellow Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to golden
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks through hydrothermal processes. Yellow hues typically come from iron inclusions or natural radiation during the cooling of silica-rich solutions.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (as a birthstone or decorative gemstone), metaphysical practices, and as a collector's specimen.

Geological facts

When naturally occurring, yellow quartz is relatively rare; many stones sold as 'citrine' are actually heat-treated amethyst. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust in its various forms.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for it in riverbeds or near pegmatite veins. It is distinguished from calcite by its hardness and lack of reaction to acid.