mineral

Citrine Quartz (Raw)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow to brownish-orange
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and often forms when amethyst or smoky quartz is heated by geothermal activity.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, as a healing crystal in spiritual practices, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst; natural citrine is quite rare and typically has a paler, uniform yellow color compared to the deep orange of treated stones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Found commonly in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Note the cloudy to clear transitions and iron-staining which are common in raw specimens.