mineral
Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous and metamorphic environments, frequently within pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and often forms when amethyst is subjected to natural geothermal heat over long periods.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (rings, necklaces), as a collector's gemstone, and in spiritual/metaphysical practices as a 'success stone'.
Geological facts
Most citrine on the commercial market is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. Natural citrine usually appears in a much paler, consistent yellow color compared to the darker orange of treated specimens.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. It is found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Look for translucent yellow transparency with no visible banding.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous