Citrine
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, with a macrocrystalline habit showing typical tumbled pebble form in this processed state.
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Tectosilicates
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and igneous processes where silicon dioxide crystallizes from silica-rich fluids at varying temperatures and pressures, often naturally irradiated or thermally enhanced from amethyst.
About This Crystal
A smoothly polished, tumbled stone with a pale yellow to warm amber hue, exhibiting translucent to semi-transparent clarity, a vitreous luster when polished, and subtle internal cloudiness characteristic of quartz varieties.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from pale yellow to brownish-orange; white streak; no true cleavage; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity of approximately 2.65; brittle tenacity; displays strong piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties.
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, low birefringence of 0.009, and generally weak pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally with notable commercial deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States, typically occurring in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable and suitable for daily jewelry wear, though it lacks cleavage, reducing the risk of splitting along planes.
Care & Maintenance
Easy to care for using warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals, sudden extreme temperature changes, and prolonged direct sunlight to prevent potential color fading.
Rarity & Value
Common to moderately rare depending on natural versus heat-treated origin; heavily influenced by color saturation, clarity, and size, with affordable pricing for tumbled specimens.
Special Characteristics
Displays natural piezoelectricity and often exhibits subtle color zoning or internal phantom-like clouding from trace iron impurities.
Lore & History
Historically worn as a protection amulet against snake venom and evil thoughts, widely regarded in modern crystal lore as the 'merchant's stone' associated with abundance, manifestation, and the solar plexus chakra.