Citrine
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, with a typical macrocrystalline prismatic habit, though this specimen is tumbled.
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically the Tectosilicate subgroup.
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and igneous processes, often forming in pegmatitic pockets or volcanic cavities at moderate temperatures and pressures.
About This Crystal
A tumbled, elongated, pale yellow-orange quartz specimen exhibiting translucent to semi-transparent clarity, a vitreous to waxy tumbled luster, and internal brownish-yellow iron oxide inclusions or fractures.
Physical Characteristics
Pale yellow to brownish-orange body color with a white streak, completely lacking cleavage, displaying conchoidal fracture, a specific gravity of around 2.65, and a brittle tenacity.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, showing very weak birefringence and no significant pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, and the Ural Mountains of Russia, typically forming in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, offering good durability and high wearability for jewelry use with no notable cleavage concerns.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water, but should be kept away from prolonged direct sunlight to prevent color fading and stored separately to avoid scratching softer stones.
Rarity & Value
Common; natural citrine is less common than heat-treated amethyst, with value depending on color saturation and clarity, ranging from inexpensive for tumbled stones to moderate for fine faceted gems.
Special Characteristics
Contains internal dendritic or cloud-like iron oxide inclusions typical of natural quartz varieties, and exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Lore & History
Historically used as a protective talisman against snake venom and evil thoughts, often associated in modern metaphysical practices with the solar plexus chakra, abundance, and personal power.