mineral

Citrine

Citrine (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2)

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

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, specifically in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine gets its color from trace amounts of iron or colloidal iron hydroxides during formation. Most commercial specimens are heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry as a gemstone and by mineral collectors. In industry, it shares the same piezoelectric properties as clear quartz, though high-quality synthetic quartz is typically used for electronics.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is rare; it is often called the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folkloric traditions. Most dark orange citrine sold today is actually heat-treated Brazilian amethyst, while natural citrine is typically a much paler yellow.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and golden hue. Look for it in pegmatite deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Collectors should check for uniform color to determine if it is natural versus heat-treated.