Comparison · Quartz Family
Citrine vs Smoky Quartz
Citrine and Smoky Quartz are easy to confuse because both are quartz family. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Citrine and Smoky Quartz
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- They overlap in brown, but Citrine also comes in yellow and orange and Smoky Quartz also comes in gray and black.
Citrine vs Smoky Quartz properties
| Property | Citrine | Smoky Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 7 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | transparent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 | 2.65 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Yellow, Orange, Golden Brown | Brown, Gray, Black |
| Rarity | uncommon | common |
| Typical specimen value | $10–$300+ | $5–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Citrine is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $30 for Smoky Quartz, and premium Citrine can reach $300 or more.
About Citrine
Citrine is a yellow to orange variety of quartz. Natural citrine is rare; most on the market is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.
About Smoky Quartz
Smoky quartz is a brown to black variety of quartz colored by natural irradiation. The national gem of Scotland, it ranges from light tan to nearly opaque black.
Citrine vs Smoky Quartz FAQ
Is Citrine the same as Smoky Quartz?
No. Both are quartz family, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Citrine from Smoky Quartz?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. They overlap in brown, but Citrine also comes in yellow and orange and Smoky Quartz also comes in gray and black.
Which is harder, Citrine or Smoky Quartz?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 7.
Which is more valuable, Citrine or Smoky Quartz?
Citrine is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $30 for Smoky Quartz, and premium Citrine can reach $300 or more.
