mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Citrine is a variety of quartz that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Most commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz to a temperature of 750-1200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry as a gemstone and as a popular collector specimen in mineralogy.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is actually quite rare; most of the vibrant orange citrine on the market is heat-treated amethyst.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its transparent yellow color and lack of cleavage. In the field, look for hexagonal crystal habits. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.