mineral

Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified June 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Citrine is formed when Amethyst or Smoky Quartz is naturally heated underground by nearby magma or geothermal processes. It is also found in igneous rocks such as granite or in metamorphic pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry as a semi-precious gemstone, in crystal healing practices, and as decorative collector specimens. It is known as the 'Success Stone' in various cultures.

Geological facts

Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrine is quite rare and usually has a much paler, lemon-yellow color compared to the reddish-burnt orange of heat-treated specimens.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its quartz-like glassy luster and ability to scratch glass. Natural citrine lacks the strong white banding/opaque base often seen in heat-treated amethyst-citrine. Found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.