Citrine
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, prismatic habit with hexagonal cross-section
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and pegmatitic formation, often created naturally when amethyst is subjected to natural heat or irradiation
About This Crystal
A small, golden-yellow to orange translucent crystal fragment with a vitreous luster, showing sharp crystalline angles and smooth faces
Physical Characteristics
Yellow to orange body color, white streak, conchoidal fracture, lack of cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Singly or doubly refractive depending on angle, uniaxial positive with low birefringence (0.009), low dispersion
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, Bolivia, and Spain; commonly found in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability and wearability for jewelry, no significant cleavage concerns
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water, avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading, store away from harder minerals
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon, natural stones are more valuable than heat-treated amethyst, moderate price range
Special Characteristics
Piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties, color variations due to trace iron impurities
Lore & History
Historically worn as a protection against snake venom and evil thoughts, associated with the solar plexus chakra and abundance in modern crystal healing