mineral
Yellow Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow to golden, Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished), Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Specific Gravity: 2.65
Identified More mineral →
Explore Yellow Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow to golden, Luster: Vitreous to waxy (when polished), Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or igneous rocks like granite. This specific specimen appears to be water-worn or tumbled, likely sourced from riverbeds or coastal deposits where quartz has been eroded and smoothed over time.
Uses & applications
Used in gemstone therapy, jewelry making (cabochons), and as decorative aquarium or garden stones.
Geological facts
Yellow quartz is often confused with Citrine; however, Citrine is usually clearer. When quartz gets its yellow color from iron inclusions it is often referred to as 'golden quartz' or 'yellow jasper' if it is opaque.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (it will scratch glass and steel) and lack of cleavage. Common in many environments worldwide due to its chemical stability.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous