mineral

Yellow Quartz (Citrine Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to golden honey
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden honey; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. The yellow color is caused by trace amounts of iron or natural irradiation over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry as a gemstone, crystal healing practices, and as decorative collector specimens.

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' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for it in areas with granite outcrops or riverbeds. Natural specimens often show color zoning.

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