Citrine
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive to microcrystalline tumbled shape
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and igneous processes, often formed by the natural irradiation or heat treatment of iron-rich amethyst
About This Crystal
A smooth, tumbled yellow quartz stone showing a range of yellow to golden-brown hues with internal cloudiness and subtle color zoning
Physical Characteristics
Yellow to brownish body color, white streak, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive optical character, doubly refractive with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, vitreous luster on polished surfaces
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States; typically forms in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability and toughness, suitable for daily wear in jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent color fading, store separately from softer gemstones
Rarity & Value
Common, widely available, with value determined by color saturation and clarity; heat-treated amethyst is frequently sold as commercial citrine
Special Characteristics
Exhibits piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties typical of quartz
Lore & History
Historically associated with wealth, abundance, and prosperity, frequently referred to as the merchant's stone and linked to the solar plexus chakra in crystal healing traditions