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.