Citrine
Quartz variety Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal crystal system; hexagonal scalenohedral. Habit is typically prismatic with pyramidal terminations, though often found as massive or tumbled pieces.
Mineral Group
Silicates; Tectosilicate subgroup (Quartz group)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with trace amounts of Iron (Fe3+)
Formation Process
Primarily hydrothermal or magmatic. Natural citrine forms when quartz is subjected to natural geothermal heat. Most commercial citrine is created by heat-treating Amethyst or Smoky Quartz.
About This Crystal
Transparent to translucent yellow to golden-orange crystal. Exhibits a vitreous (glass-like) luster. The specimen in the image appears to be a small, tumbled or broken fragment showing a saturated yellow-orange hue and typical quartz fracture.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale yellow to reddish-orange; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal (shell-like); Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Generally inert under UV light.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial (+); Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Pleochroism: Very weak to weak (yellow/pale yellow). No significant fire or dispersion.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Mainly Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul), Madagascar, Spain, Russia, and DR Congo. Often occurs in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7. Toughness: Good. Highly durable and suitable for all jewelry types due to lack of cleavage and high resistance to scratching.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct intense sunlight as it can cause colors to fade. Safe for ultrasonic cleaners but avoid sudden temperature shocks.
Rarity & Value
Natural untreated citrine is rare. Most market citrine is heat-treated amethyst. Value is determined by color intensity and clarity; deep orange 'Madeira' citrine is most valued.
Special Characteristics
May exhibit color zoning. Unlike heat-treated amethyst which often has a reddish tint and white opaque base, natural citrine is frequently more dichroic and consistent in color.
Lore & History
Historically known as the 'Merchant's Stone,' associated with prosperity and success. In traditional lore, it is linked to the Solar Plexus Chakra and believed to promote energy, manifest wealth, and clear negative energy. Used in jewelry since the Hellenistic Age in Greece.