mineral
Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to golden honey
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites and in hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and often forms when amethyst or smoky quartz is heated by natural geothermal processes. Its color is due to traces of iron.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants), and highly valued in crystal collecting and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Citrine is known as the 'Merchant's Stone' or 'Success Stone' in folklore. Most citrine on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst, but natural specimens have a lighter, more uniform lemony hue.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. Natural citrine is usually consistent in color, while heat-treated amethyst often shows white at the base. Found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.
