mineral
Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Pale yellow to brownish orange
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, primarily in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine owes its color to trace amounts of ferric iron (Fe3+) in the quartz lattice.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings), as a collector's mineral specimen, and in holistic practices as a 'success stone'.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is quite rare in nature. Most commercial 'citrine' is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz, which turns a bright orange-yellow when baked at high temperatures.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow-gold-amber translucence. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Collectors value natural, unheated specimens with high clarity.
