mineral

Citrine

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to golden orange. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow to golden orange
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to golden orange. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly geodes and volcanic pockets. Natural citrine is rare and often forms when amethyst or smoky quartz is subjected to geothermal heat.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting and cabochons), crystal healing, and as a collector mark specimen.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Most citrine on the market today is actually heat-treated amethyst, which turns orange-yellow at high temperatures.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its quartz-like conchoidal fracture and lack of cleavage. In the field, look for hexagonal prisms. Natural citrine is often found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.