mineral
Citrine (Heat-treated Amethyst)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Honey-yellow to reddish-orange
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to reddish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. While natural citrine exists, most commercial specimens (like this one) are created by heat-treating purple Amethyst or Smoky Quartz to change its color state.
Uses & applications
Popular in jewelry, holistic practices, and as a decorative mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is rare; heat-treated versions are identified by their white bases and concentrated burnt-orange tips.
Field identification & locations
Found globally in areas with quartz deposits like Brazil and Madagascar. Identifying features include its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for the 'burnt' orange color transition.
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