Rock Identifier
Citrine (SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)) — mineral
mineral

Citrine

SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow to brownish orange, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific gravity: 2.65

Identified More mineral

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow to brownish orange, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Often created naturally by heat from magma bodies interacting with amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry as a gemstone and highly valued by mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is relatively rare; most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. The name comes from the Latin word 'citrina' which means yellow.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its yellow to orange color, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. Found in places like Brazil, Madagascar, and the USA.