Citrine
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, shaped into a polished puffy heart habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Igneous and hydrothermal processes, specifically crystallizing from silica-rich fluids in pegmatites or volcanic cavities at moderate temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
A smoothly polished, heart-shaped gemstone displaying a warm, honey-yellow to golden-brown hue. It has a translucent to semi-translucent body with internal cloudy zoning and a high-gloss vitreous luster from tumbling and polishing.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from pale yellow to brownish-orange; streak is white; no cleavage; fracture is conchoidal; specific gravity is approximately 2.65; tenacity is brittle; exhibits piezoelectric properties
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical sign with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, showing double refraction and weak pleochroism in deeper colored specimens
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States; typically forms in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it quite durable and suitable for everyday jewelry wear with good toughness and no distinct cleavage
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water using a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can cause the color to fade
Rarity & Value
Common to moderately rare depending on natural intensity; natural citrine is rarer than heat-treated amethyst, with value determined by color saturation, clarity, and size
Special Characteristics
Natural color often derives from trace amounts of iron or natural irradiation; highly receptive to heat treatment (many commercial citrines are heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz)
Lore & History
Historically used as a talisman against snake bites and evil thoughts; known as the 'merchant stone' in modern crystal healing, traditionally associated with the solar plexus chakra, prosperity, abundance, and personal power