mineral

Quartz (Citrine or Iron-Stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

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

Identified May 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms in igneous rocks like granite or in hydrothermal veins. Yellow coloration is often caused by iron impurities or natural/artificial irradiation.

Uses & applications

Used widely in jewelry (birthstone for November), crystal healing, and as a collector's mineral due to its transparency and color.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. It is known as the 'Success Stone' in folklore.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Often found in riverbeds or within quartz veins on hillsides.

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