Yellow Quartz
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, with a massive or tumbled pebble habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, forming at low to moderate temperatures
About This Crystal
A tumbled, yellowish-brown to pale yellow pebble with a smooth, polished surface, exhibiting translucent to opaque areas and natural internal fractures
Physical Characteristics
Yellow to brownish color, white streak, conchoidal fracture, lack of cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65
Optical Properties
Singly refractive or uniaxial positive with a low refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, showing weak or no pleochroism
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Global distribution; notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability, resistant to scratching by most common materials but brittle under sharp impact
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water; avoid prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals and direct sunlight to prevent potential color fading
Rarity & Value
Common; widely available at affordable price points, though natural deep color variations can command higher prices
Special Characteristics
Presents natural internal fractures and subtle color zoning typical of macrocrystalline quartz varieties
Lore & History
Historically associated with abundance, warmth, and vitality in various crystal lore traditions, linked traditionally to the solar plexus chakra