mineral

Citrine

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Yellow to golden brown
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed as a result of geothermal activity in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins where silica-rich fluids cool. Natural citrine is rare; much of it is produced by heat-treating Amethyst or Smoky Quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, necklaces), and highly valued as a specimen for crystal healing and metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is often called the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone.' It is extremely rare in nature compared to other quartz varieties; most commercial 'citrine' is heat-treated amethyst which turns orange-yellow at 450 degrees Celsius.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glass-like luster and yellow hue. Field identification often shows it occurring in clusters or within geode structures. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.