mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow to brownish-orange
Luster: Vitreous

Identified June 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Citrine is a variety of quartz that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Most commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz to alter the oxidation state of iron impurities.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting, cabochons) and as a healing stone in holistic practices. It is historically known as the 'merchant's stone'.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare compared to amethyst. The name is derived from the French 'citron' meaning lemon. It is the birthstone for November.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its vitreous luster and lack of cleavage. In the field, it is often found in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.