gemstone

Citrine (Heat-Treated Amethyst)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Orange-brown to golden yellow tip fading to white quartz at the base. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 25, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when amethyst quartz is subjected to thermal heat (either naturally or through artificial heating processes exceeding 400-500 degrees Celsius), altering iron impurities from purple to orange hues. Major occurrences in Brazil, Madagascar, and Uruguay.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry, wire wrapping, crystal healing collections, and decorative gemstone displays.

Geological facts

Most commercial 'citrine' available on the market today is actually heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrine is far rarer and typically displays a softer, pale smoky-yellow color rather than bright fiery orange.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive transition from a white quartz root to a burnt orange or brownish-yellow tip. Look for typical quartz hardness (scratches glass, unaffected by steel knife) and lack of cleavage. Common in rock shops worldwide.

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