mineral
Quartz (Citrine or Iron-Stained)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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Physical properties
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.
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.
