mineral

Citrine

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Yellow to brownish-orange
Luster: Vitreous

Identified May 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to brownish-orange; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly geodes and veins. Natural citrine is rare and often forms when amethyst or smoky quartz is heated by geothermal activity.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings. It is also a popular collector mineral and used in crystal healing practices.

Geological facts

Citrine is known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone.' Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst, which turns yellow-orange at approximately 470 degrees Celsius.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its quartz-like hardness and yellow hue. Natural specimens usually have a pale yellow color, while heat-treated ones are deeper orange with reddish tints. Frequently found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.