What is the Difference Between Topaz and Citrine

The main difference between topaz and citrine is that topaz is a rare silicate mineral that occurs in many colors, whereas citrine is a yellow quartz. When considering their features, topaz is heavier and harder than citrine.

Orange topaz and citrine are the two birthstones for the month of November. Most people confuse citrine with orange/yellow topaz because of their color. But they are two different types of gemstones.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Topaz
     – Definition, Features 
2. What is Citrine
    – Definition, Features 
3. Difference Between Topaz and Citrine
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Topaz, Citrine, Gemstone

Difference Between Topaz and Citrine - Comparison Summary

What is Topaz

Topaz is a rare silicate mineral used as a gemstone in jewelry and other accessories. It contains aluminium and fluorine and has the Al2SiO4(F,OH)2. In its natural state, common topaz is colorless, but trace elements can give it a golden brown, yellow-orange, or pale blue color. Treating topaz with radiation or heating gives various colors, including pale green, pink, purple, deep blue, and reddish orange. The rarest topaz stones are reds, natural pinks, and delicate golden oranges. Orange topaz is the traditional birthstone for November and a symbol of friendship.

Topaz vs Citrine

Topaz is also one of the hardest natural minerals and has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. But it must be treated with care since it has a tendency to break along such a cleavage plane if it’s struck with sufficient force. Topaz also has a relatively low index of refraction. It has a specific gravity between 3.4 and 3.6, which is remarkably high for a mineral with silicon, aluminum, and gaseous elements. Moreover, it’s a prismatic crystal that is vitreous and has perfect basal cleavage.

What is Citrine

Citrine is yellow quartz and has the chemical composition SiO2.  Quartz is a hard, crystalline mineral containing oxygen and silicon atoms. It’s the second most abundant mineral on earth after feldspar and is available in various colors. The quartz stones that have the color of citrus fruits fall into the ‘citrine’ category. Therefore, citrine can range from pale yellow to reddish-orange. This color is formed by a trace of iron in citrine. Although quartz is a common mineral, natural citrine is somewhat rare. Some citrine on the market is formed by the heat treatment of amethyst. However, citrine generally tends to be more affordable than topaz.

Compare Topaz and Citrine - What's the difference?

When considering the chemical properties of citrine, its refractive index is between 1.544 to 1.553, and its specific gravity is 2.66. Citrine has a Mohs hardness of 7. Citrine is available in a wide variety of sizes, and even large gemstones remain affordable. Moreover, inclusions that are visible to the eye are not common in citrine. If they are present, they decrease their value.

Difference Between Topaz and Citrine

Definition

Topaz is a rare silicate mineral with the chemical composition Al2SiO4(F,OH)2, while citrine is yellow quartz that has the chemical composition SiO2.

Composition

Moreover, topaz contains silicon, aluminium, and fluorine, while citrine contains oxygen and silicon atoms.

Value

Citrine is less valuable and more affordable than topaz.

Hardness

Topaz has a higher hardness than citrine. Topaz has a Mohs hardness of 8, while citrine has a Mohs hardness of 7.

Weight

Topaz gemstones are heavier than citrine stones.

Specific Gravity

Topaz has a specific gravity between 3.4 and 3.6, whereas citrine has a specific gravity of 2.66.

Conclusion

The main difference between topaz and citrine is that topaz is a rare silicate mineral that occurs in many colors, whereas citrine is a yellow quartz. When considering their features, topaz is heavier and harder than citrine.

Reference:

1. “Topaz.” Geology.com
2. “Citrine Stone: Meaning, Healing Properties & Uses.” Truly Experiences.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Large Topaz Gemstones” By Michelle Jo – Own work (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Citrine 1 (Russie)” By Parent Géry – Own work (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia

About the Author: Hasa

Hasanthi is a seasoned content writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. Armed with a BA degree in English and a knack for digital marketing, she explores her passions for literature, history, culture, and food through her engaging and informative writing.

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