gemstone

Faceted citrine-colored gemstone

Likely citrine (quartz, SiO₂); possibly yellow glass or synthetic gem

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Transparent golden-yellow, vitreous luster, faceted cut, and no visible cleavage; citrine has Mohs hardness 7, trigonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The image alone cannot confirm natural quartz, and the unusually saturated color may indicate heat-treated amethyst or synthetic material.

Identified August 29, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Natural citrine forms when iron impurities color quartz in hydrothermal veins or igneous cavities; much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst. Quartz dates from the host rock’s formation, commonly Paleozoic to younger, while synthetic or glass alternatives are manufactured.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, and mineral collections; faceted pieces may have modest jewelry value depending on clarity, color, cut, and whether natural origin is verified.

Geological facts

Citrine is the traditional November birthstone and is relatively durable for everyday jewelry. A refractometer, loupe, and hardness or gemological testing can distinguish it from glass and many simulants.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Zambia, Uruguay, and Spain. Identify quartz by its hardness, quartz-like inclusions, refractive index around 1.544–1.553, and lack of cleavage; avoid scratching the specimen during testing.