mineral

Citrine or Yellow Quartz

Quartz (SiO2) with iron impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 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)

Identified July 8, 2026More mineral →

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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.