mineral

Citrine-bearing quartz cluster

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), with iron-related yellow coloration

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-yellow to brown prismatic crystals on a white granular quartz matrix; vitreous luster, Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or cavities crystallize quartz; the yellow color commonly results from iron impurities or heat-treated amethyst. Individual crystals may be geologically millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used as a collector specimen and, when transparent and gem-quality, in jewelry; quartz is also important industrially in glass, electronics, abrasives, and engineered stone.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is relatively uncommon; much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst. Blue flashes are likely iridescence or reflections from crystal faces rather than blue coloration.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, hardness, six-sided crystal faces, and lack of cleavage; it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Spain.