Mineral (Tectosilicate)
Citrine (Heat-treated Amethyst)
Citrine Quartz (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to golden honey
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites; commercial specimens like this are typically created by heat-treating low-grade Amethyst (at approx. 450°C-550°C) to alter the oxidation state of iron impurities.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used in jewelry, ornamental decor (like crystal trees), meditation stones, and metaphysical collection.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is extremely rare; most commercial citrine is 'burnt amethyst'. You can tell the difference because heat-treated citrine often has opaque white bases and a deeper orange-burnt hue compared to the uniform pale yellow of natural citrine.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glass-like luster and ability to scratch glass. In the field, look for quartz crystals in geodes within volcanic rock. Amethyst/Citrine is found heavily in Brazil, Uruguay, and Madagascar.
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