mineral
Yellow Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to golden. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal, though typically found in massive, tumbled, or crystalline habits. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Yellow to golden
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to golden. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal, though typically found in massive, tumbled, or crystalline habits. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and sedimentary environments where silica-rich fluids precipitate or crystallize over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in jewelry, metaphysical healing, ornamental carvings, and glassmaking.
Geological facts
Yellow quartz is sometimes naturally irradiated or contains trace amounts of iron, giving it its distinct warm hue. It is closely related to citrine, though natural citrine is rarer.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. Commonly found in river gravels, pegmatites, and quartz veins worldwide.
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