mineral
Citrine or Yellow Quartz
Quartz (SiO2) with iron impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to golden brown
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Citrine forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically in geodes and pegmatites when quartz is exposed to high temperatures or natural radiation from surrounding minerals.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry as a gemstone and for ornamental purposes or decorative crystal collections. High-quality natural citrine is a prized collector's item.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is quite rare; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. It is often called the 'Merchant's Stone' in folkloric traditions.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow color. Found globally in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Look for clarity and distinct color zoning.
