Citrine

Citrine is a luminous and uplifting member of the quartz family, highly valued for its inviting spectrum of yellow to orange hues that evoke warmth, cheerfulness and a sense of optimism. Often described as embodying the glow of the sun, citrine radiates positive energy and has long been associated with light, vitality and happiness. Its name comes from the French word for lemon, “citron,” a fitting tribute to its sunny colour palette. Sometimes referred to as the “sunshine stone,” citrine is treasured not only for its beauty but also for the feelings of prosperity and well-being it is believed to inspire. 

Naturally occurring citrine is exceptionally rare in nature; most of the citrine on the jewellery market today is produced by heat-treating other varieties of quartz, particularly pale amethyst or smoky quartz. This process enhances the vibrant yellow and golden tones that make citrine so desirable, and is an accepted and longstanding practice within the gem industry. The resulting stones are stable, durable and visually appealing, with colour ranging from delicate pale yellow to intense amber and burnt orange. The most highly prized citrines exhibit a clear, golden or deep orange-brown hue that appears rich and saturated without brownish or muddy undertones. 

With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, citrine is tough enough for a wide variety of jewellery applications. Its resilience makes it a wonderful, affordable alternative to other yellow gemstones, such as yellow sapphire or topaz, and it is increasingly chosen for engagement rings, statement rings and daily-wear pieces. Citrine is also well-suited to earrings, pendants and bracelets, but like all quartz it should be protected from hard knocks and extreme, prolonged heat. 

Citrine holds a special place as the birthstone for November and is frequently gifted as a token of friendship, abundance and luck. It has been used in jewellery and decorative objects since ancient times, particularly beloved during the Art Deco period, when its bright, geometric cuts perfectly complemented bold, modern designs. In crystal healing traditions, citrine is often credited with the ability to promote joy, dispel negative energy and attract wealth and success. 

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Durable for everyday jewellery, though care should be taken to avoid strong knocks or prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which could affect the stone’s colour. 

Colour: Ranges from the palest yellow to rich golden and deep orange-brown. The finest citrines feature a vivid, clear golden or amber hue without muddiness. 

Origin: Brazil is the world’s most important source of citrine, providing much of the gem-quality material on the market. Significant deposits are also found in Madagascar, Russia and the United States (notably in Colorado and North Carolina). 

Notable Fact: Citrine has enjoyed popularity since ancient times, valued not only for its beauty but also for its reputed metaphysical properties. In the 1920s and 1930s, citrine was a favourite of Art Deco jewellery designers, who used it in bold cocktail rings and dramatic brooches. Today, it remains a symbol of happiness, clarity and abundance, making it a thoughtful gift for birthdays, milestones or new beginnings. 

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