mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace Iron

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to golden honey
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic rocks like pegmatites and quartz veins. Most natural citrine is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz, though rare natural forms occur due to volcanic heat or natural radiation.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting, cabochons, beads), as a decorative collector specimen, and in metaphysical practices as a 'stone of abundance'.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is extremely rare. Almost all commercial citrine, including many tumbled stones, is actually amethyst that has been heat-treated in a kiln to turn its color from purple to orange-yellow.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its transparency and lack of visible cleavage. In the field, look for a quartz-like habit with a yellow tint. Much of the world's commercial supply comes from Brazil and Madagascar.