mineral

Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 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)

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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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.