mineral

Citrine Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Ferric Iron impurities

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale yellow to deep honey amber. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.

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

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale yellow to deep honey amber. 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 granite and pegmatites. Most commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz at temperatures around 470°C to 560°C. Natural citrine is rare and occurs through geothermal heating over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, necklaces) and by collectors. In industry, quartz is used for its local piezoelectric properties, though citrine specifically is valued for aesthetics.

Geological facts

Known as the 'Merchant's Stone' or 'Success Stone' in folklore. Natural citrine is exceptionally rare compared to heat-treated varieties; you can usually tell the difference because heat-treated citrine has white, opaque bases and a more reddish-orange tint.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for transparent to translucent honey-colored crystals in quartz veins or river beds near granite deposits. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.

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