mineral

Tumbled citrine quartz

Citrine, yellow variety of quartz (SiO₂), likely heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; transparent to translucent yellow-orange color, vitreous luster, and hexagonal crystal structure. Quartz has no cleavage and conchoidal fracture; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 7 Mohs; transparent to translucent yellow-orange color, vitreous luster, and hexagonal crystal structure. Quartz has no cleavage and conchoidal fracture; specific gravity is about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Natural citrine forms when iron-bearing quartz is heated by geological processes, typically in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins; much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst. The pictured piece is polished/tumbled, obscuring its original crystal form.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative and lapidary stone, in jewelry, carvings, and mineral collections. Common tumbled pieces generally have modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is considerably rarer than amethyst, while orange-brown “citrine” sold commercially is often treated amethyst. Strong internal fractures and cloudy zones are common in tumbled quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy luster, high durability, yellow-orange color, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch ordinary glass. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, Spain, and the United States; treatment disclosure is important for collectors.