Citrine Quartz

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7; Color: Yellow, honey-gold to amber-brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Natural citrine forms within igneous rocks like granite or in hydrothermal veins where silica-rich fluids cool. Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. Geological age varies by location, often associated with Precambrian to Mesozoic formations.

Uses & Applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting, cabochons), crystal healing collections, and as decorative tumbled stones. Historically used as a symbol of abundance and prosperity.

Geological Facts

Natural citrine is quite rare in nature. It gets its color from trace amounts of iron. It is often called the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore and is the birthstone for November.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow-orange transparency. Found in Brazil, Madagascar, Spain, and Russia. Common tumbled specimens are often identified by a white base (if heat-treated) or uniform golden color.

Identified on: 5/7/2026

Mode: Standard