Citrine

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, honey-gold, or amber; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically within pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and occurs through geothermal heating of amethyst or smoky quartz over millions of years.

Uses & Applications

Extensively used in jewelry (rings, pendants), as a birthstone for November, and by collectors. Also used in crystal healing practices.

Geological Facts

Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrine is dichroic (shows different colors from different angles), whereas heat-treated material is usually not.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its quartz crystal shape (six-sided prism with pyramid termination) and lack of cleavage. Natural citrine typically has a consistent pale yellow color, while heat-treated amethyst often appears burnt orange with white opaque bases.

Identified on: 5/11/2026

Mode: Standard