mineral

Quartz (Citrine or Iron-Stained)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Yellow-brown to amber due to iron hydration or natural irradiation. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal. Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 24, 2026More mineral →

Explore Quartz (Citrine or Iron-Stained) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the crystallization of silica-rich solutions. Often found in geode cavities or as massive granular forms within igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry (as a gemstone), as healing crystals in the metaphysical community, and for mineral collection. High-purity quartz is also used in electronics and glass manufacturing.

Geological facts

Citrine is often called the 'Merchant's Stone' as it was historically believed to bring prosperity. Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and translucent amber color. Common in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Look for conchoidal fractures and a lack of bubbly textures found in glass imitations.