mineral

Quartz (Variety: Citrine or Iron-stained Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellowish-tan to light orange; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellowish-tan to light orange
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified May 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellowish-tan to light orange; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites or in hydrothermal veins. Often colored naturally by trace amounts of iron or by geothermic heating of amethyst.

Uses & applications

Used widely in jewelry as a gemstone, in crystal healing practices, and as a decorative collector specimen.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. It is known as the 'Success Stone' in folklore.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for the translucent to transparent quality and the characteristic conchoidal fracture patterns on broken surfaces.

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