mineral
Citrine
Silicon dioxide (Quartz variety), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on Mohs scale, pale yellow to brownish-orange color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on Mohs scale, pale yellow to brownish-orange color, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture with no true cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms hydrothermally in igneous and metamorphic rocks, or through the heat treatment of low-grade amethyst.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, and as a popular collectible specimen.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is relatively rare, with most commercial citrine being heat-treated amethyst. Its yellow color stems from trace amounts of iron impurities or irradiation defects.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinct yellow-to-orange color and quartz hardness, commonly sourced from Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.
