gemstone
Faceted Citrine
Citrine Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to golden honey
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Citrine is a variety of quartz that develops its yellow color from traces of ferric iron inside the crystal lattice. Most commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz to temperatures between 470°C to 560°C.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings. It is also a popular specimen for gemstone collectors and is used in various holistic practices.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is quite rare in nature. It is often called the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore and is the traditional birthstone for the month of November.
Field identification & locations
Identify natural citrine by its lack of a reddish tint (which heat-treated specimens often have) and its consistent color saturation throughout the stone. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.
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