This beautiful gemstone is often confused with yellow topaz, is known for its beneficial properties, and is the top seller of all the yellow gemstones. We’re talking about the citrine gemstone, of course.
If you’re not familiar with citrine stone, here’s everything you need to know.
What You Will Learn
What is Citrine?
First things first, what is citrine stone?
Citrine crystals are a type of crystalline quartz. Natural citrine is very rare, but when you find a citrine crystal in the wild, the stone’s yellow-to-orange hue is due to traces of iron within the crystal. Due to the rarity of naturally occurring citrine, most citrine jewelry is made via heat-treating other quartz varieties — such as purple amethyst or smoky quartz, both of which are far more common — to create a stone with a natural citrine hue.
Citrine has been a staple in jewelry for centuries, and antique pieces from the Victorian Era contain gorgeous, large, dark yellow citrine gemstones.
Citrine comes in varying shades of pale yellow to reddish-orange to golden citrine. The final color of heat-treated citrine depends on the color of the original amethyst or quartz used in the manufacture. For instance, heat-treated amethyst can produce a very rich yellow, while another amethyst produces a paler yellow. Sometimes, the heat treatment can even turn a smoky quartz into a yellow-green hue.
Madeira citrine is a particular type of citrine, named for the Brazilian word for “wood. ” It’s generally darker than other citrine and typically comes from Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, or Madagascar. Palmeira citrine is another specific variety with an amber hue.
Citrine derives its name from the Old French word for “lemon.”
Citrine Quality Factors
Citrine is a remarkable gemstone valued for its golden hues, durability (a 7 on the Mohs scale), and affordability compared to gemstones with a similar appearance, such as topaz or yellow sapphires. But what makes one citrine stone better than another?
- Color
The most valuable citrine is a deep yellow to orange, with no brown. However, this prized coloring is not as common. You’re more likely to find citrine that exhibits more of a brownish-red-orange hue.
- Clarity
As with most gemstones, clarity greatly influences citrine’s quality and value. The best citrine shows no inclusions or flaws when viewed with the naked eye.
- Carat weight
The larger the gemstone, the more it’ll typically cost. Still, unlike some gemstones, it’s not uncommon to find large pieces of citrine, even in jewelry.
What is Citrine Crystal Good For? Citrine Crystal Benefits
Citrine stones, with their cheery yellow-orange appearance, are known to gem enthusiasts for their positive energy and healing properties.
According to Crystal Digest, citrine, aka the merchant’s stone, attracts prosperity with its vibrant energy. The stone also offers mental clarity, personal power, and creativity. It reduces negative energy and can stimulate the sacral, root, third-eye, or solar plexus chakra.
Regarding physical benefits, some believe citrine stimulates digestion, improves blood circulation, clears the kidneys of infections, removes cellulite, and treats female reproductive issues. For mental health, it’s believed citrine can assist with emotional healing as well, mainly related to depression or fear.
Should You Buy Citrine Jewelry?
Citrine is an eye-catching gemstone that offers many benefits. Is a piece of citrine jewelry in your future? Here are the pros and cons to consider before buying your next piece.
If keeping up jewelry maintenance isn’t your thing or you are very rough with your jewelry, citrine may not be a good choice for daily wear. Likewise, if you want a gemstone that will be an investment, you should opt for a more expensive piece of jewelry.
However, a new piece of citrine jewelry could be a perfect fit if you’re only looking for an affordable piece that offers a beautiful appearance and are willing to give it a little care and consideration.
Citrine Care
Citrine is fairly durable but will require some extra care. It’s not as hard a material as topaz or diamond, so it’s susceptible to scratching. However, it can still be worn in rings and similar high-impact jewelry, so long as you use caution.
Do note that you should not expose your citrine to heat or abrupt temperature changes, which can cause fracturing. Long-term light exposure can also cause discoloration. Certain chemicals, such as alkaline solutions, can likewise damage citrine.
Citrine FAQs
What is citrine gemstone?
Natural stones like citrine are a type of yellow-orange quartz. However, most citrine on the market is other types of quartz that have been heated to achieve the desired yellow-orange color.
What color is citrine stone?
Citrine stones are typically a yellow-orange, though shades can range from a very pale yellow to an intense, dark orange with shades of red and brown.
What is a citrine stone worth?
Citrine is relatively inexpensive. Stones can be found for under $20, and the highest-quality citrine still costs only a few hundred dollars.
Is citrine a good investment gemstone?
If you want a good investment gemstone that will retain its value over time, citrine is not your stone. Given citrine’s very affordable cost, it’s not a good fit as an investment.
Is citrine a durable gemstone?
Ranking 7 on the Mohs scale, citrine is pretty durable, though not as durable as diamond. As such, it’s susceptible to scratching and dings, though not excessively so.
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