mineral
Citrine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to brownish-orange. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like). Crystal structure: Trigonal, usually forms in prismatic crystals. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Yellow to brownish-orange
- Luster
- Vitreous (glass-like)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to brownish-orange. Luster: Vitreous (glass-like). Crystal structure: Trigonal, usually forms in prismatic crystals. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms naturally in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks through the crystallization of silica-rich solutions, though much commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings) as a gemstone, as well as in decorative items and crystal collections.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is relatively rare; the vast majority of citrine available on the market is heat-treated amethyst. It gets its yellow color from trace amounts of iron impurities.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its distinct yellow-to-orange color and quartz hardness. Natural deposits are found in Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, and the USA.
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