mineral
Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, light gold, to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Yellow, light gold, to brownish orange
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, light gold, to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and often forms when amethyst or smoky quartz is naturally heated by nearby magma chambers.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry as a gemstone, as well as for lapidary arts and popular use in spiritual/crystal collecting communities.
Geological facts
Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. Natural citrine lacks the reddish tint of treated stones and is often much paler. It is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone'.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. Found commonly in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. True citrine is pale yellow and dichroic.
