mineral

Citrine Quartz Crystal Cluster

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities

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

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale yellow to deep amber/orange
Luster: Vitreous

Identified May 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments when amethyst or smoky quartz is naturally heated by geothermal activity. Most commercial citrine is created by heat-treating low-grade amethyst. Natural formation can occur over millions of years in hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (faceting), crystal healing practices, as decorative home decor pieces, and for mineral collection.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is rare; most citrine on the market is heat-treated amethyst. It is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folkloric circles. Named after the French word 'citron' for lemon.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its crystal habit (six-sided prisms) and distinct yellow-to-orange hue. In the field, look for hexagonal points and a lack of cleavage. Found commonly in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.

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