Citrine

Overview

Citrine is yellow to orange quartz, named after the French citron (lemon). Natural citrine is relatively uncommon; most stones sold today are amethyst or smoky quartz that has been heated, a stable treatment that produces the warm golden and orange colours buyers love. It is durable, affordable in large sizes and easy to wear.

Colour

Citrine ranges from pale lemon to deep reddish orange. Saturated golden yellow to orange stones without brownish undertones are most valued; the deep orange-brown shade is often called "Madeira" citrine, after the colour of the wine. Natural citrine tends to be a softer, paler yellow.

Key properties

Where citrine comes from

Brazil supplies most citrine, largely from heated amethyst. Bolivia's Anahí mine produces ametrine, in which amethyst and citrine share one crystal. Madagascar, Spain, Russia and the United States are other sources.

Treatments

Heating amethyst or smoky quartz to a few hundred degrees turns it yellow to orange. The colour is permanent and the treatment is accepted, but it should be disclosed. Heated amethyst often shows a reddish tint, while natural citrine is usually even and pale.

Buying tips

• Choose clean, bright stones. Faceted citrine is normally eye-clean.
• Avoid brownish or smoky undertones unless you like the look; they lower value.
• Big stones are affordable, so the cut and the colour matter more than weight.
• Do not confuse it with topaz. Names like "citrine topaz" are misleading; the two are different minerals.

Care and cleaning

Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe for stones without fractures. Avoid steam, high heat and long exposure to strong sunlight, which can lighten some stones.