mineral

Orange Quartz (Citrine Quartz variety)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to orange-brown
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites and in hydrothermal veins. Natural orange quartz/citrine is rare; many specimens are formed by heat-treating Amethyst or Smoky Quartz, which can occur across many geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry for gemstones, ornamental carvings, and by mineral collectors for its aesthetic orange hue. Also used in industrial applications requiring high-purity silica.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is very rare; most 'citrine' in the commercial market is heat-treated amethyst. It is known as the 'Success Stone' in folklore. The color comes from submicroscopic distributions of colloidal iron hydroxide impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct conchoidal fracture, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the Ural Mountains of Russia. Collectors should look for even color distribution.

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