gemstone

Citrine Quartz (or Heat-Treated Amethyst / Smoky Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous (glass-like) luster, hexagonal crystal system, transparent to translucent brownish-yellow to golden-honey color, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture.

Identified July 24, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous (glass-like) luster, hexagonal crystal system, transparent to translucent brownish-yellow to golden-honey color, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture.

Formation & geological history

Natural citrine forms rare igneous pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. However, most commercial golden-yellow quartz pendants of this type are created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz at high temperatures (around 450-900°F).

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry such as necklaces, pendants, rings, and earrings, as well as in holistic crystal healing, meditation, and decorative gemstone crafts.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Merchant's Stone' or 'Success Stone' in folklore due to its association with wealth and prosperity. Natural citrine is exceptionally rare compared to heat-treated varieties.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its transparent golden-brown or yellow-orange color and glass-like clarity when faceted or carved into point pendants. Natural specimens are commonly mined in Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, and Zambia.