Birthstone Spotlight: Citrine

We have entered November, which means it’s time for another Birthstone Spotlight! Let’s learn about citrine!

What is Citrine?

Citrine is a variety of quartz. It is transparent and appears in a color range from yellow to brownish orange. It is rare to find in nature and when it is, it has often been confused for topaz. Most citrine that is used in jewelry today has been heat-treated to achieve its attractive yellow color.

The History of Citrine

Quartz gemstones have been treasured and used in jewelry throughout history. However, because natural citrine is rare, there is less history about them than many other popular gemstones. Some Victorian Era jewelry has been found containing citrine, so it is possible that these gemstones have been cherished for hundreds of years. However, earlier generations may not have distinguished between citrine and topaz.

Quality Factors

Like many other gemstones, citrine’s quality is determined by its carat weight, color, cut, and clarity.

Carat weight: Citrines are available in many sizes. It is not uncommon to find larger citrines (up to 20 carats) in jewelry. 

Color: Citrine is usually the result of heat-treated amethyst. The colors range from yellow to brown to red, although saturated yellow and reddish-orange varieties have traditionally demanded the highest prices. Today, many collectors prize also citrines that are deep brown.

Cut: Citrines are cut into a wide variety of shapes. Some citrine is also used for elaborate carvings.

Clarity: Citrine is most prized when it is “eye clean,” meaning it is free from inclusions that can be seen with the naked eye. Most of the citrine that is used in jewelry today does not contain easily visible inclusions. 

How to Care For Citrine Jewelry

Citrine jewelry is safe to clean in ultrasonic machines or with warm, soapy water. It’s best to keep your citrines away from heat though, so avoid steam cleaning and abrupt temperature changes. You should also use care when storing citrines and try to keep them away from other items that could scratch or damage them.

Interesting Facts About Citrine

• Citrine is November’s birthstone, as well as the gemstone for the 13th anniversary.
• Citrine ranks as a 7 on the Mohs scale.
• Citrine’s color results from a trace of iron in the gemstone.
• Citrine is the most popular yellow gemstone on the market.
• The world’s largest faceted citrine is called the “Malaga” and is over 20,000 carats (that’s almost 9 pounds)!