mineral

Heat-Treated Amethyst (Commercial Citrine)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Macro-crystalline Quartz

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Golden yellow to deep amber/orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Golden yellow to deep amber/orange
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Golden yellow to deep amber/orange; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the heat treatment of low-quality Amethyst. Natural citrine is rare and formed by hydrothermal processes; however, commercial burnt orange specimens like this are created by heating Amethyst to temperatures around 900°F (482°C) to change violet iron impurities into yellow or orange tones.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in crystal healing, inexpensive jewelry (as a November birthstone alternative), home decor, and as entry-level mineral specimens for novice collectors.

Geological facts

Most ‘Citrine’ on the market is actually heat-treated Amethyst. You can tell it is treated by the bright orange/brown color and the presence of opaque white crumbly bases, which result from the intense heating process. Natural citrine is usually a pale, uniform lemony-yellow without the white 'snow' base.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field/market by its clustered 'druzy' habit and burnt orange tips. While natural Citrine is found in Brazil and Madagascar, processed specimens like this are mass-produced in labs/kilns. Mineral collectors use them for classroom demonstrations of color-centers in minerals.

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