mineral

Citrine Quartz Sphere

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: transparent yellow to brownish-orange (due to iron impurities); Luster: vitreous; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: vitreous

Identified May 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: transparent yellow to brownish-orange (due to iron impurities); Luster: vitreous; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments, often in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare; many commercial specimens are heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, as gemstone carvings, and for metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is pale yellow, while heat-treated amethyst is often a deeper, burnt orange color.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for internal veining or inclusions typical of natural quartz. Found globally, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.