gemstone

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Pale yellow to golden honey, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Specific gravity: 2.65, Transparency: Transparent to translucent

Identified July 7, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Pale yellow to golden honey, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Specific gravity: 2.65, Transparency: Transparent to translucent

Formation & geological history

Citrine is a variety of quartz that develops its color from trace amounts of iron. It forms in igneous (pegmatites) or metamorphic environments. Natural citrine is rare; many specimens on the market are heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is pale yellow, while heat-treated versions often display a deeper, reddish-orange or burnt-orange hue.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for consistent coloring or zoning; heat-treated versions often have white bases if they originated as amethyst geodes. Naturally found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.