mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide with iron impurities (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow to golden brown
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to golden brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Citrine is a variety of quartz that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly geodic cavities and hydrothermal veins. While natural citrine is rare, much commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, for decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

Geological facts

Citrine is often called the 'Merchant's Stone' or 'Success Stone' due to historical beliefs that it brings prosperity. Natural citrine is pale yellow, whereas heat-treated specimens often show a deeper orange or reddish tint and a white base.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and yellow-to-amber color. Look for it in pegmatites and volcanic rocks. Most commercial specimens are found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.