Citrine: November Birthstone Quick Facts
Citrine Color: Ranges in color from pale yellow to brownish orange
Citrine Mohs Hardness Scale Rating: 7
Citrine Symbolism & Meaning: Health, happiness and success
Citrine Zodiac Signs: Scorpio and Sagittarius
Other Recognitions: Traditional gift for the 13th wedding anniversary
What Is Citrine?
Citrine is a member of the common quartz family and a sister gem to amethyst. Most commercial citrine today is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz, whose color comes from iron. Heat enhancement is routinely performed to create colors that vary from pure yellow to honey-gold to smoky brown.
Where Is Citrine Found?
Citrine is very abundant and affordable and is most commonly found in Brazil, Russia, Madagascar, Spain, France and the United States.
Citrine Color, Characteristics & Value
Natural color citrine is rare and usually pale yellow. Inclusions of manganese and titanium cause the pale yellow color. Heat-treated quartz citrine has deep colored tips of yellow, gold or brown and a milky-white base. This treatment requires no special care and is considered permanent. Generally, the most valued types of citrine quartz are an intense orange color.
Citrine Care & Cleaning
Citrine is easily cared for, requiring cleaning with a gentle solution made specifically for jewelry. Borsheims also offers small “ultrasonic” cleaners that clean your jewelry with high-frequency sound. It is important to have your jewelry professionally cleaned and checked three to four times a year. When not worn, citrine jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box lined with soft fabric.
FAQs
How Much Is Citrine Worth?
Citrine typically ranges from about $10 to $100 per carat, depending on color, clarity and size. Richer golden-orange tones usually command higher prices.
Is Citrine Expensive?
Citrine is generally considered an affordable gemstone compared to many others. It offers a similar look to more expensive yellow stones at a lower price point.
How to Tell If Citrine Is Real
Real citrine usually has a soft yellow to golden-orange color with slight variations, not a uniform or overly bright tone. One of our professional jewelers can confirm authenticity if you’re unsure.
How Does Citrine Get Its Color?
Citrine gets its yellow-to-orange color from trace amounts of iron inside the quartz crystal. Heat, either natural or treated, enhances these warm tones.
What Does the Color of Citrine Indicate About Its Properties?
Deeper golden or orange hues are typically more valued and often indicate stronger color saturation. Lighter yellow stones are more subtle and usually less expensive.
What Are the Main Differences Between Citrine and Other Yellow Gemstones?
Citrine is more affordable and durable than many yellow gemstones, with a softer, warmer glow compared to brighter stones like yellow sapphire. It’s also widely available and easy to wear.
Is Citrine the Same as Topaz?
No, citrine is a variety of quartz, while topaz is a different mineral entirely. They can look similar in color, but they differ in structure, value and durability.
What Jewelry Pieces Are Best Made with Citrine or Yellow Gemstones?
Citrine works well in rings, earrings, pendants and bracelets, especially for everyday wear. Its durability and warm color make it versatile for both casual and dressy pieces.
Can Citrine Go in Water?
Yes, citrine can handle brief contact with water, like washing hands. Just avoid prolonged soaking or harsh chemicals to keep it looking its best.
Citrine is a popular gift option for those celebrating November birthdays and those commemorating their 13th wedding anniversary.
