Citrine Quartz (Yellow Quartz)

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Formed in igneous and metamorphic environments, typically in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. Much commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz to alter the oxidation state of iron impurities.

Uses & Applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants), as a lapidary material for tumbled stones, and highly valued in metaphysical/collecting communities.

Geological Facts

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

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow-to-orange transparency. Found globally where quartz is abundant, notably Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.

Identified on: 4/25/2026

Mode: Standard