Citrine

Citrine is a variety of crystalline quartz known for its warm golden hues, ranging from pale yellow to deep amber, known as Madeira citrine. The fitting name of citrine is derived from the French word for lemon, citron. Natural citrine is relatively rare, with most gemstones on the market being heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.

Chemical Composition: Silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

Crystal System: Trigonal

Refractive Index: 1.54 to 1.56

Specific Gravity: 2.65

Double Refraction: 0.009

Mohs Hardness: 7

Lustre: Vitreous

Citrine is primarily sourced from Brazil, Bolivia, Madagascar, and the United States. The finest specimens, featuring rich orange-gold hues, are found in Brazil and Bolivia. Bolivia's Ametrine, a rare natural combination of amethyst and citrine, is especially sought after. Natural citrine is far less common than its heat-treated counterpart, making untreated stones from specific locations more valuable.

Yes, citrine can be used in an engagement ring, but it requires care because it is softer than sapphires and diamonds. With a hardness of 7, it is durable enough for everyday wear but can still be prone to scratching and scuffing by harder materials. If used in an engagement ring, a protective setting, such as a bezel set or diamond halo, is recommended to offer additional protection to the citrine. Exposure to extreme heat and prolonged direct sunlight should also be avoided because this can fade a citrine's colour over time.

As with all coloured gemstones, a citrine's value is primarily determined by its colour, clarity, size and origin. The most valuable citrines display a deep golden-orange hue, sometimes with hints of red, known as 'Madeira Citrine' after the colour of Madeira wine. Lighter or brownish-toned citrines are generally less desirable. Since quartz is abundant, citrine's value does not increase significantly with size unless the stone exhibits exceptional clarity and saturation.

Many citrine gemstones on the market are heat-treated amethysts or smoky quartz, as natural citrine is rare. The heat treatment process enhances or changes a gemstone's colour, transforming pale or purple-hued quartz into a vibrant golden tone. Heat treatment of gem material is widely accepted in the gemstone industry and does not affect the durability or colour stability of the stone. Natural, untreated citrines are far less common and command higher prices.

The rarest citrine is natural, untreated citrine with deep, saturated golden-orange hues. Some of the finest specimens come from Bolivia and Brazil. Ametrine, a naturally occurring half-half blend of amethyst and citrine, is found almost exclusively in Bolivia, and deeply saturated purple and yellow colours are rare and highly valued.

Citrine is the modern birthstone for November, sharing the month with topaz. Citrine was officially added as a modern birthstone for November in 1912 as part of an effort to standardise birthstones for marketing and accessibility. Before this, topaz had been the traditional birthstone for November, but citrine was introduced as a more affordable and widely available alternative with a similar look and golden hue.

The belief that citrine attracts wealth and success dates back centuries and is rooted in historical records and folklore. The Romans and Greeks used citrine in signet rings, carved intaglios, and jewellery, believing it held protective and prosperous energies. Historical citrine artifacts have been found in Hellenistic Greek and Roman jewellery (300 BCE–100 CE). During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, citrine was worn by merchants and traders who believed it protected against financial losses and promoted business prosperity. This is likely where the term 'The Merchant’s Stone', a nickname for citrine, originated. In the 19th century, citrine saw a rise in popularity, particularly in Scotland, where it was set in elaborate brooches, kilt pins, and weapon hilts.

Synthetic quartz can exist but is uncommon, as natural quartz is abundant and inexpensive to mine. Natural unheated citrine is relatively rare and usually exhibits subtle colour zoning and minor inclusions. Heat-treated citrine (amethyst or smoky quartz) tends to have an intense, uniform colour, often with an orange-brown tint. A gemologist or gem dealer can confirm authenticity through spectroscopy, refractive index testing, and magnification.