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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