mineral

Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace Iron

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow to golden-orange, Luster: Vitreous/Glassy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Identified July 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow to golden-orange, Luster: Vitreous/Glassy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms naturally in igneous rocks such as pegmatites or hydrothermal veins when silicon dioxide crystallizes under high heat. Much commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (faceting, cabochons) and as a healing crystal in metaphysical practices. Also highly collectible for display specimens.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare in nature. Most stones sold as citrine today are heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz, which changes from purple or brown to yellow-orange when baked.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Found in riverbeds as water-worn pebbles or in crystal clusters in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.