Citrine

Physical Properties

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

Formation & Geological History

Formed through the heat-treatment of amethyst or smoky quartz in volcanic environments, or naturally occurring where groundwater interacts with iron-bearing silica solutions in hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare.

Uses & Applications

Primary use is in jewelry as a semi-precious gemstone. Also popular in gemstone collecting, crystal healing practices, and as a decorative birthstone (November).

Geological Facts

Natural citrine is very rare; most citrine on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst. It is known as the 'Merchant's Stone' because it is historically associated with wealth and prosperity.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its yellow to honey-orange hue and lack of cleavage. In the field, look for quartz crystals in hydrothermal veins. Note that natural citrine lacks the opaque white bases often seen in heat-treated amethyst cathedral geodes.

Identified on: 4/25/2026

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