mineral

Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7
Color: Yellow to brownish-orange
Luster: Vitreous

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically in geodes or veins where iron impurities are irradiated or heated. Most commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst.

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry (rings, necklaces), as a collector specimen, and in holistic practices as the 'Success Stone'.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most 'citrine' in the market is actually heat-treated amethyst which turns orange at high temperatures. It is the birthstone for November.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hexagonal prism shape and lack of cleavage. Found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Look for a transparent yellow-to-amber hue without the purple zoning of amethyst.