mineral/gemstone
Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Yellow to brownish-orange
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and usually results from the presence of trace iron or natural irradiation of amethyst or smoky quartz.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry due to its durability and attractive color. It is also a very popular specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Most 'citrine' on the market today is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. Natural citrine is far rarer and typically displays a pale yellow or 'lemon' hue rather than deep orange. It is known as the 'Success Stone' in folklore.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow transparency. The coordinates provided (9.3°N, 42.1°E) are in Eastern Ethiopia, near Harar, a region known for diverse gemstones including quartz varieties and opals.
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