mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale yellow to golden honey
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Natural citrine forms through the geological heating of amethyst or smoky quartz. Most commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst in lab settings to high temperatures (approx. 450°C).

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting and cabochons) and as decorative pocket stones or metaphysical tools for collectors.

Geological facts

Naturally occurring citrine is quite rare; most 'citrine' sold today is actually heat-treated amethyst, identifiable by a more opaque white base and reddish-orange tips.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass) and color. Natural specimens are usually pale yellow and pleochroic. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.