mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale yellow to golden-brown; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous environments, particularly in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare; most commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings), and as decorative specimens for mineral collectors or metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Naturally occurring citrine is quite rare in nature. The name is derived from the French word 'citron', meaning lemon. It is the official birthstone for November.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its transparency, yellow hue, and hardness (cannot be scratched by steel). Found commonly in Brazil, Madagascar, Spain, and Russia. Collectors look for clarity and intensity of color.