mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: transparent yellow to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: transparent yellow to brownish orange
Luster: Vitreous

Identified June 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: transparent yellow to brownish orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal system: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly geodes and veins where mineral-rich water precipitates silica. Natural citrine is rare and often forms near amethyst or smoky quartz deposits through geothermal heating.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry as a gemstone, decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors. It is also highly valued in metaphysical traditions as the 'merchant's stone'.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is very rare; most citrine on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. The color in natural citrine comes from trace amounts of iron or aluminum and natural radiation within the earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hexagonal crystal habit (if present), vitreous luster, and lack of cleavage. Often found in Brazil, Spain, and Madagascar. Collectors should check for uniform coloring versus the 'burnt' white base characteristic of heat-treated amethyst.