mineral

Citrine Quartz

Crystalline Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: pale yellow to golden honey
Luster: Vitreous

Identified May 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in igneous rocks such as pegmatites or in hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and typically forms when heat from the earth or radiation affects amethyst or smoky quartz crystals over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (faceting, cabochons), crystal healing practices, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors due to its clarity and color.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; much of the commercial 'citrine' on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst. It is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore and is the birthstone for November.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its quartz-like clarity and yellow hue. Unlike heat-treated specimens which often have white bases and crumbly texture, natural citrine is consistent in color. Found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.

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