Citrine (Heat-treated Amethyst)

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to burnt orange/amber; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Most commercial citrine is created by heating Amethyst or Smoky Quartz to high temperatures (approx. 450°C). Natural citrine is rare and forms hydrothermally in igneous and metamorphic environments.

Uses & Applications

Used extensively in jewelry (faceted gemstones), metaphysical healing practices, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological Facts

Naturally occuring citrine is very rare. Most affordable specimens like this one, featuring a white base and a 'toasty' orange tip, are actually heat-treated Brazilian Amethyst.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by its crystal habit (six-sided prisms) and lack of cleavage. In this specific specimen, the concentration of orange at the tip/edge of a white host is a primary indicator of heat treatment.

Identified on: 4/13/2026

Mode: Standard