mineral

Citrine (Heat-Treated Amethyst)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to burnt orange/amber; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Yellow to burnt orange/amber
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow to burnt orange/amber; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Most commercial citrine, like the one pictured, is formed by heat-treating purple amethyst. The process mimics natural geothermal heat but is accelerated in a lab or kiln. The iron impurities change from violet to yellow/orange at approximately 450-550 degrees Celsius.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (faceting), decorative ornaments, and common rock collections. It is known as the 'Success Stone' in metaphysical circles.

Geological facts

Natural citrine is quite rare and typically pale yellow; the deep 'burnt' orange tips on a white quartz base seen here are the hallmarks of heat-treated amethyst geodes from Brazil.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for opaque white bases with concentrated orange tips (drusy clusters). Natural citrine is usually color-consistent throughout the crystal. Common in Brazil, Uruguay, and Madagascar.

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