mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Yellow to brownish-orange
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. Most commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz to alter their iron oxidation states.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in the jewelry industry as a semi-precious gemstone. It is also a popular specimen for mineral collectors and is used in metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare in nature; most of the vibrant orange citrine on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst. It is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its clarity, lack of cleavage, and yellow-to-gold hue. In the field, look for hexagonal prismatic crystals. Major sources include Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul), Madagascar, and Russia.