mineral
Heated Citrine (Heat-Treated Amethyst)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2), quartz variety
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, deep amber to burnt orange-brown color with often opaque or white milky base, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, deep amber to burnt orange-brown color with often opaque or white milky base, vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity of 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed by artificially heating natural purple amethyst (quartz containing iron impurities) to temperatures generally between 400°C and 500°C, which changes the iron oxidation state and turns the stone orange-brown.
Uses & applications
Widely used in crystal healing, home decor, and affordable gemstone jewelry.
Geological facts
While true natural citrine is a pale yellow, the vast majority of citrine sold on the commercial market is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its unusually dark, reddish-orange or burnt color, stark contrast with a white quartz base, and often fractured crystal tips due to thermal shock from heating.
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