Citrine
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal/Hexagonal; typically occurs as six-sided prisms with pyramidal terminations; the specimen shown is a tumbled or water-worn pebble.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with trace amounts of Iron (Fe3+)
Formation Process
Natural citrine forms via hydrothermal processes or in pegmatites under high temperatures. Most commercial citrine is created by heat-treating amethyst at 470-560°C.
About This Crystal
Transparent to translucent yellow to golden-brown quartz. The specimen displays a vitreous luster with internal fractures and 'veils' or 'phantoms' typical of tumbled quartz. Color appears pale yellow to amber.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale yellow to honey-orange; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (indistinct); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually inert/none.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Optical character: Uniaxial positive; Weak pleochroism in natural specimens; no dispersion phenomena like fire.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul), Madagascar, Spain, and Russia. Often found in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good (no cleavage); Stability: High, though some heat-treated specimens may fade if exposed to extreme heat or prolonged direct UV light.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; safe for ultrasonic cleaners in the absence of significant fractures. Store separately from diamonds or sapphires to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is determined by color saturation and clarity. Natural (non-heated) citrine is rarer and more valuable than heat-treated amethyst-citrine.
Special Characteristics
May contain internal 'rainbow' fractures (as visible in the specimen), liquid-filled inclusions, or color zoning. It does not exhibit chatoyancy or asterism.
Lore & History
Historically known as the 'Success Stone' or 'Merchant's Stone.' In lore, it is believed to enhance abundance and solar plexus chakra energy. Used in jewelry since the Hellenistic Age in Greece.