mineral

Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

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

Identified June 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks through hydrothermal processes. Natural citrine is rare and usually occurs in pegmatites or quartz veins. Most commercial pieces are heat-treated amethyst.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (faceting and cabochons), crystal healing collections, and as decorative centerpieces in interior design.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Merchant's Stone' because it is traditionally believed to attract wealth. It is the birthstone for November. Natural honey-colored citrine is significantly rarer than the heat-treated burnt-orange variety.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its trigonal crystal system and lack of cleavage. Look for even distribution of color in natural specimens vs. opaque white bases in heat-treated amethyst. Common locations include Brazil and Madagascar.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic