mineral
Citrine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); 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 system: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Citrine is a variety of quartz that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Most commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz to alter the oxidation state of iron impurities.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (faceting, cabochons) and as a healing stone in holistic practices. It is historically known as the 'merchant's stone'.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is quite rare compared to amethyst. The name is derived from the French 'citron' meaning lemon. It is the birthstone for November.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its vitreous luster and lack of cleavage. In the field, it is often found in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.
