Citrine Quartz

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to honey-brown; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Formed in igneous environments (pegmatites) or hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and often forms when amethyst or smoky quartz is naturally heated by geothermal heat.

Uses & Applications

Primarily used in jewelry as a gemstone, as well as by collectors and in metaphysical practices.

Geological Facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most 'commercial' citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz which turns yellow-orange when baked in a kiln.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), glass-like luster, and absence of cleavage planes. Found in major quartz deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.

Identified on: 4/13/2026

Mode: Standard