Citrine in Matrix
Quartz var. Citrine · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically found as hexagonal prisms or in massive, macrocrystalline form within geodes or veins.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with trace Iron (Fe3+)
Formation Process
Magmatic or hydrothermal crystallization in gas cavities (vugs) or veins. Natural citrine forms when quartz is heated by nearby magma, though many commercial specimens are heat-treated amethyst.
About This Crystal
This specimen shows pale yellow to golden-brown crystalline clusters embedded in a greyish-brown rocky matrix. The crystals exhibit a vitreous (glassy) luster and vary from translucent to nearly transparent.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Yellow to amber; Streak: White; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Generally inert.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Double refraction (uniaxial positive); Birefringence: 0.009; No significant pleochroism in pale specimens.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul), Madagascar, and Russia; often found in magmatic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good; Highly durable for jewelry, though sensitive to prolonged extreme heat.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if there are many inclusions. Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight as color can potentially fade over decades.
Rarity & Value
Natural citrine is rare; most commercial yellow quartz is heat-treated amethyst. Value is determined by color saturation (deeper orange-browns are higher value) and clarity.
Special Characteristics
Can contain 'phantom' growth layers or liquid inclusions. Lacks the dichroism often found in synthetic counterparts.
Lore & History
Known historically as the 'Merchant's Stone' for its association with prosperity. Ancient Greeks used quartz in intaglio jewelry. In modern lore, it is associated with the solar plexus chakra and energy.