mineral

Citrine

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65

Identified April 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Yellow to brownish-orange, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments, often in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare; much commercial citrine is created through the heat treatment of amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (faceting and cabochons), as metaphysical healing stones, and in mineral collections.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is often called the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone.' It is one of the few gemstones that is thought to not accumulate negative energy but rather dissipate and transmute it.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass) and lack of cleavage. In the field, look for hexagonal crystal points in pegmatite zones. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.