Our Gems

Citrine

History and Folklore

The name is supposed to have come from the Latin word citrina meaning yellow. This was recorded by Georgius Agricola in his 1546 writing “De Natura Fossilium.” Others say the name came from the French word citrin meaning yellow. Egyptians believed its golden color was cast by the Sun God Ra. Citrine jewelry has been found back as far as the Hellenistic period. Because of its sunny brightness, citrine is considered the most powerful of all healing stones. According to history, citrines were carried to ward off evil thoughts and safeguard against snake venom.

Facts and Information

Citrine is sometimes used for the November birthstone. Citrine is a variety of quartz that goes from light yellow and golden to a reddish brown. The reddish brown is sometimes called Madeira Citrine because it resembles the color of Madeira wine. The quartz is typically heated to produce this beautiful yellow color or to improve its color. At this time, this heat treatment is undetectable and it is a permanent change. Size of citrine are very common up to approximately 20 carats and stones have been found over 1,000 carats. Although citrine has sometimes been falsely referred to as “topaz quartz”, this terminology is not recommended.

Gemstone Identification and Characteristics

  • R.I.: 1.544 - 1.553
  • Hardness: 7
  • S.G.: 2.66 (+.03, -.02)
  • Species: Quartz

Cleaning Methods

  • Safe in warm, soapy water
  • Risky to use in steamer
  • Usually safe in ultrasonic

Major Sources

  • Brazil