mineral

Citrine

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 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

Identified July 19, 2026More mineral →

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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 granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Often created naturally through geothermal heat or industrially by heat-treating amethyst.

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry (faceting, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for crystal collectors.

Geological facts

Citrine is often called the 'Merchants Stone' because it is believed to attract wealth. Genuine natural citrine is quite rare; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster and lack of cleavage. In the field, look for hexagonal prisms in pegmatite deposits. It is commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.