Citrine

Citrine is one of the most popular gemstones available today. It belongs to the very large family of quartz (SiO2) gemstones. More specifically, it is the yellow to golden orange variety of gemstone-quality macrocrystalline quartz (silicon dioxide). The name ‘citrine’ was derived from ‘citron’, a French word meaning ‘lemon’, although its color tends to be more golden rather than lemon-yellow.

Natural citrine is actually quite rare and because it is more valuable than most other varieties of quartz, much of the citrine today is actually heat-treated to obtain its attractive golden color. Almost all heated citrine will exhibit reddish tints. When quartz is heated (naturally or artificially), iron impurities are reduced, resulting in lesser amounts of violet and purple, and stronger yellow to golden orange colors.The only difference between citrine and amethyst is the oxidation level of iron ions (Fe3) present in otherwise colorless quartz crystal, which explaines citrine’s close relation to violet-purple amethyst, another variety of transparent macrocrystalline quartz.

Citrine Color

Natural untreated citrine is typically pale yellow to golden in color and is often accompanied by smoky brownish tones. Deeper colors can occur ranging from golden orange to rich gold-brown. Darker colors are typically considered more desirable than lighter lemon colors. Heated citrine (amethyst or smoky quartz) will typically exhibit a reddish tint.

Citrine Clarity and Luster

Citrine is known to occur with excellent transparency. Eye-clean specimens are quite common leaving little reason to buy citrine stones with visible inclusions. Citrine has an attractive vitreous luster when cut and polished.

Citrine Cut and Shape

Citrine is almost always faceted. Round brilliants and ovals are most common as these cuts tends to maximize color and dispersion. Step cuts (emerald cuts) and other fancy cuts, such as scissor-cuts or Portuguese-cuts are also quite popular. Citrine gemstones can be found in just about every shape imaginable, including pears, squares, trillions, rounds, ovals, cushions and heart shapes. Calibrated sizes are very common and remain affordable even with larger stones.

Citrine Jewelry

Citrine is perfectly suitable for any type of jewelry design, including rings, pendants and earrings. It is considered hard, durable and can easily withstand the daily wear and tear of commercial mainstream jewelry. Citrine is typically worn as pendants or rings, but it can also be used for necklaces, pins and brooches. Citrine is also quite popular for use in beaded and string jewelry designs. Citrine is a favorite for many jewelers and designers owing to the wide range of shapes and cuts available. Citrine is one of the most popular golden gemstones on the market today.

Source: Gem Select