mineral
Yellow Quartz (Citrine Quartz)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden yellow; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale yellow to golden yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow to golden yellow; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites and granites, as well as hydrothermal veins. Often heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz, though natural yellow quartz occurs when trace amounts of iron are present in the quartz lattice.
Uses & applications
Popular as a gemstone, for lapidary work, jewelry making, and metaphysical/crystal collecting.
Geological facts
Natural citrine is relatively rare compared to heat-treated quartz. It is known as the 'Merchant's Stone' in folklore because it was believed to attract wealth and prosperity.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch glass (Mohs 7), lack of cleavage, vitreous luster, and translucent pale yellow coloration. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, and the USA.
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