mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine or Iron-stained Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown
Luster: Vitreous

Identified April 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks. Most natural yellow quartz gets its color from iron impurities or natural irradiation. Much of what is sold as citrine is heat-treated amethyst.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry as a gemstone, crystal healing, collection, and in some precision industrial equipment.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is actually quite rare compared to other quartz varieties.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent yellow hue. It is commonly found in riverbeds as water-worn pebbles or in quartz-rich veins.

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