mineral
Yellow Citrine Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to deep honey amber; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to deep honey amber
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to deep honey amber; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments, primarily in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Natural citrine is rare; many commercial specimens are heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry (beads, cabochons, faceted stones) and as a birthstone (November). It is also a popular specimen for metaphysical collectors and mineral enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is often called the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore. Most citrine sold today is actually amethyst heat-treated to roughly 470-560 degrees Celsius to achieve the yellow hue.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and transparent to translucent clarity. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia. Natural citrine usually has a consistent color, whereas heat-treated pieces often have white powdery bases.
