Colors of Citrine and Its Origins
Citrine exhibits a delightful spectrum of warm hues, ranging from a pale, lemony yellow to a deep, earthy orange-brown. While natural citrine is rare and typically found in softer yellows, most of the vibrant, richer golden and reddish-orange citrine available commercially is created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz. Brazil is the primary global source for the amethyst that is heat-treated into citrine, boasting vast deposits. Other notable natural citrine deposits are found in Bolivia, Uruguay, and Madagascar.
Taking Care of your Citrine Jewelry
To maintain the radiant glow of your citrine jewelry, always clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, ensuring a thorough rinse. It's crucial to avoid extreme heat, as this can cause natural or heat-treated citrine to fade in color. Keep your citrine away from harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Store your citrine pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches, as its hardness (7 on the Mohs scale) means it can be scratched by harder gemstones.
Understanding the Pricing of Citrine's
Understanding citrine pricing primarily revolves around color and clarity. The most valued citrine exhibits a rich, saturated orange or reddish-brown hue, often achieved through the heat treatment of amethyst, which is generally more affordable than natural, untreated yellow citrine. Deeper, more intense colors typically command higher prices. As with most gemstones, stones with excellent clarity and lacking visible inclusions are more desirable. While larger citrine stones are available and their price increases with carat weight, it remains a relatively accessible and budget-friendly gemstone compared to other precious gems.
Citrine Gemstone Meaning
Citrine is widely regarded as the "stone of abundance," believed to attract wealth, prosperity, and success. Its warm, sunny energy is associated with joy, enthusiasm, and lightheartedness, dispelling negativity and promoting optimism. This vibrant gem is also thought to energize every level of life, stimulating creativity and encouraging self-expression. Wearing Citrine is said to bring comfort and a sense of clarity, making it a popular choice for those seeking to manifest their dreams.
