Quartz: Citrine

Citrine is believed to promote creativity and help personal clarity.

Facts

SPECIES/GROUP : Quartz

CLASSIFICATION : Gemstone

Origin

Citrine is a variety of the quartz mineral species and is by far the most widely used transparent stone in the yellow to orange colour range. Different shades of yellow quartz are known as citrine.

Name

Its name derives from the French word ‘citron,’ meaning ‘lemon’ in reference to its yellow colour. The gem is widely available around the world, chiefly in Brazil, Tanzania, Namibia and Zambia.

PROCESSING

While citrines are found in nature, most begin their life as amethysts, changing to shades of yellow upon being heated under controlled conditions – a routine practice that does not affect the quality or colour stability.

APPEARANCE

Transparent to translucent pale yellow to deep orange and/or brownish orange in warm, earthy shades.

Care

Avoid rough handling and when not being worn, store items of citrine-embellished jewellery separately to avoid scratches. Clean with warm, soapy water and gentle brushing. Ultrasonic cleaners should be used with caution. Avoid jeweller’s torches.

Durability

Citrine is ranked a 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a durable stone well suited for use in jewellery.

MYTHOLOGY & ASSOCIATION

Ancient civilisations considered citrine a gift from the sun thanks to its sunny colour that radiates positive energy. The gemstone was also believed to bring calmness, cheerfulness and objectivity to those who wore it. Citrine, like all forms of quartz, has been linked to magical powers and worn in the past as a talisman against evil and snake venom. According to legend, citrine promotes success, prosperity and abundance, especially in business. The practice of placing a citrine in the cash register of a shop till earned it the moniker ‘Merchant’s stone.’ Other legends claim that citrine relieves stress and promotes happiness, clarity and strength. A citrine is often given as a symbol of hope, youth, health and fidelity.