mineral
Citrine
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Yellow to brownish orange
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare and most commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.
Uses & applications
Mainly used in jewelry as a gemstone, and popular among crystal collectors for metaphysical and aesthetic purposes.
Geological facts
Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is pale yellow, while heat-treated amethyst usually has a deep orange-red tint and opaque white base.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. Can be found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Collectors should look for uniform color and clarity.
