Citrine
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive to tumbled pebble habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and pegmatitic crystallization, often created commercially via heat treatment of amethyst
About This Crystal
A polished, tumbled pebble of warm amber-brown to yellowish-orange quartz. It is transparent to translucent with a vitreous luster, showing smooth rounded surfaces and internal fractures typical of tumbled quartz.
Physical Characteristics
Color is yellowish-brown to orange; streak is white; no cleavage; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity around 2.65; brittle tenacity; displays piezoelectricity.
Optical Properties
Refractive index of 1.544-1.553; uniaxial positive optical character; low birefringence (0.009); singly or doubly refractive depending on light orientation; generally weak or absent pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, and worldwide hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7; good durability and toughness, making it very suitable for everyday jewelry wear.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water; avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent color fading; avoid harsh chemicals and store separately from softer stones.
Rarity & Value
Common; natural deep citrine is rarer, while heat-treated amethyst is widely abundant and affordable.
Special Characteristics
Displays internal fractures and light reflections characteristic of tumbled quartz pebbles; exhibits piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties.
Lore & History
Historically associated with abundance, manifestation, and personal power. Often referred to as the 'Merchant's Stone' in traditional crystal healing lore, connected to the Solar Plexus chakra.