mineral
Citrine
Silicon Dioxide (Quartz variety), SiO2
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, yellow to orange-brown color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, yellow to orange-brown color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms naturally through the hydrothermal growth of quartz with trace amounts of iron, though much commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, as a decorative gemstone, and valued by crystal collectors for its bright, sunny appearance.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is relatively rare compared to heat-treated amethyst, which is commonly sold under the same name.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinct yellow coloration, high hardness, and lack of cleavage. Often found globally in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
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Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
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