gemstone

Tumbled citrine quartz

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), likely iron-colored variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; pale yellow to honey-yellow, transparent to translucent, vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and indistinct cleavage with conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural abrasion; visible inclusions and internal fractures are common.

Identified August 30, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Citrine forms when trace iron colors quartz during hydrothermal or igneous processes, commonly in cavities of granites and pegmatites; much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst. Quartz is geologically widespread from Precambrian to modern deposits.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental and jewelry gemstone, in carvings, and by mineral collectors. Clear, strongly colored natural citrine is more valuable than pale or heat-treated material.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is relatively uncommon; orange-brown “Madeira” citrine is especially prized. Heat-treated amethyst may show reddish-orange tones and color concentrated near fractures.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness, glassy luster, lack of cleavage, and yellow coloration; quartz will scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Zambia, and Uruguay.