Mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale yellow to golden brown
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified March 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic rocks (especially pegmatites and quartz veins) through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids. Natural citrine color is often caused by colloidal iron or heat-treatment of amethyst/smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry as a semi-precious gemstone. Also popular for crystal collecting, decorative carvings, and alternative healing practices.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most 'citrine' on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst. It is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore, and it is the birthstone for November.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its transparency, lack of cleavage, and yellow hue. Found commonly in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Collectors look for clarity and natural (not heat-treated) color saturation.