mineral

Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, primarily in geodes, veins, and vugs. Most commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz, though natural citrine occurs via geothermal heating over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (facets and beads), as a healing crystal in metaphysical practices, and as a collector's mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Merchant's Stone' or 'Success Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is actually quite rare; most 'citrine' on the market is heat-treated amethyst, which turns orange-yellow at approximately 450 degrees Celsius.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (it should scratch glass),Lack of cleavage, and yellow-to-amber transparency. Often found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Natural citrine usually has a consistent color, whereas heat-treated specimens may have white bases.