mineral

Citrine

Citrine (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to deep amber
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments where silica-rich fluids crystallize. Its yellow color is caused by trace amounts of iron or heat-treatment of amethyst/smokey quartz. Geological age varies significantly based on parent rock, spanning millions of years.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings). It is also highly popular as a 'healing crystal' in metaphysical practices and collected as mineral specimens.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare in nature; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst. It is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. It is one of the official birthstones for November.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow-to-brown transparency. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Collectors look for clarity and depth of natural color.