mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: yellow, honey, amber, or reddish-brown; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: yellow, honey, amber, or reddish-brown
Luster: vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly granitic pegmatites. Natural citrine acquires its color from trace amounts of iron. Much commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry, as an ornamental crystal for collecting, and in spiritual/metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare; most 'citrine' in the market is actually heat-treated amethyst, which turns golden around 450 degrees Celsius. In ancient times, it was called the 'merchant's stone' and believed to attract wealth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (will scratch glass) and lack of cleavage. Look for distinct yellow to orange hues without the 'burnt' orange or white bases typical of heat-treated amethyst. Found in Brazil, Russia, Madagascar, and parts of the USA.