mineral
Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace Iron impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Pale yellow to golden honey
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments when amethyst or smoky quartz is subjected to natural geothermal heat or as a primary crystal in pegmatites. Natural citrine is rare compared to heat-treated varieties.
Uses & applications
Highly valued for semi-precious jewelry, ornamental stone carving, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and crystal healing enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is quite rare; most 'citrine' on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrine usually has a consistent pale yellow color compared to the burnt orange-red tips of treated specimens.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its conchoidal (glass-like) fracture, 7 hardness (scratches glass but not topaz), and lack of cleavage. Often found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the Ural Mountains.
