Citrine

from the Antique Jewelry University

This Retro ladies wristwatch features a citrine crystal. It is flanked by half moons of citrine with round brilliant cut diamond accents.
Image courtesy of Lang Antiques
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
ColorYellow to golden
Crystal structureTrigonal
Refractive index1.544-1.553
FamilyQuartz
DurabilityExcellent
Hardness7
Similar stonesCommonly confused with yellow topaz, yellow beryl (heliodor), yellow zircon, yellow sapphire and glass
TreatmentsHeat treatment
Country of originBrazil, Madagascar and Myanmar
Citrine care
Ultrasonic cleaningNot safe
Steam cleaningNot safe
Warm soapy waterSafe
Chemical attactUsually safe
Light sensitivityStable
Heat sensitivityStable under normal conditions