Mineral

Citrine (Yellow Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to brownish orange
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments, specifically in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins where silicon-rich fluids crystallize. Natural citrine gets its color from iron impurities and natural irradiation, often found in Precambrian or Mesozoic deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants) and widely collected as a healing crystal in metamorphic and wellness practices. Low-grade specimens are sometimes used as decorative gravel.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. It is known as the 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore due to a belief that it brings prosperity.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow-to-amber transparency. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Look for conchoidal (shell-like) fractures on broken surfaces.