Citrine
from the Antique Jewelry University
The yellow to golden variety of quartz, colored by trace elements of iron, is named citrine and it is the second most coveted variety of quartz after amethyst. Citrine is not as common as amethyst and most citrine on the market today is treated amethyst that has been heated at around 900 degrees Fahrenheit (ca. 450 to 480 degrees C.). This creates a stable golden to yellow color which can be restored to its original color upon irradiation. The color of this gem closely resembles the color of - the more expensive - yellow topaz and citrine is marketed under various names as Madeira topaz , Bahia topaz, and topaz quartz which are of course misnomers and aimed to deceive the public.
The prime sources for - natural - citrine are located in Brazil, Madagascar and Myanmar.
The ancient Greeks knew about this gem as early as the 4th century BC (the start of the Hellenistic period). It has been attributed several metaphysical powers as a cure for heart and kidney failures, liver and muscle disease and it encourages the Chi flow. It can activate one's intuition, eliminates self-destructional behavior and is used to promote creativity. The chakra based interpretation views citrine as uplifting, bright, energizing and inspirational.
Citrine is the symbolic gemstone for the 13th wedding year and is the alternative birthstone for the month November, or the Scorpio zodiac sign.
| Gemological information for citrine | |
|---|---|
| Color | Yellow to golden |
| Crystal structure | Trigonal |
| Refractive index | 1.544-1.553 |
| Family | Quartz |
| Durability | Excellent |
| Hardness | 7 |
| Similar stones | Commonly confused with yellow topaz, yellow beryl (heliodor), yellow zircon, yellow sapphire and glass |
| Treatments | Heat treatment |
| Country of origin | Brazil, Madagascar and Myanmar |
| Citrine care | |
| Ultrasonic cleaning | Not safe |
| Steam cleaning | Not safe |
| Warm soapy water | Safe |
| Chemical attact | Usually safe |
| Light sensitivity | Stable |
| Heat sensitivity | Stable under normal conditions |