Citrine and Pearl
Quartz var. Citrine (and Organic Pearly Nacre) · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Organic Gem
Crystal System
Trigonal (for quartz) and Orthorhombic (for aragonite in pearls)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates) and Biogenic Organic Minerals
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (with trace iron for citrine) and CaCO3/Conchiolin for pearl
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and pegmatitic formation for quartz; biogenic secretion for pearls in mollusks
About This Crystal
A beaded jewelry bracelet featuring faceted pale yellow to golden-brown citrine beads interspersed with golden metallic spacers, a few larger tumbled quartz/citrine stones, and a single prominent white baroque pearl.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from pale yellow, honey, to golden amber with a white organic focal pearl; vitreous luster on quartz, pearly luster on pearl; conchoidal fracture for quartz; brittle tenacity.
Optical Properties
Singly or doubly refractive depending on component; quartz is uniaxial positive with low birefringence; pearl exhibits characteristic pearly orient and iridescent luster.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, and cultured pearl farms worldwide
Hardness & Durability
Citrine is 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for daily wear; pearl is much softer at 2.5 to 4 and requires careful handling to avoid scratching.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can fade citrine.
Rarity & Value
Common to moderately rare depending on natural color saturation; heat-treated amethyst is frequently sold as citrine, while natural untreated golden citrine commands a higher price.
Special Characteristics
Combines the piezoelectric properties of crystalline quartz with the organic biogenic luster and iridescence of nacre in pearls.
Lore & History
Citrine is traditionally known as the merchant's stone, associated with abundance, manifestation, and the solar plexus chakra. Pearls symbolize purity, wisdom, and emotional balance across various ancient cultures.