Citrine
is a sister stone to the Amethyst a part  of the quartz
family of gemstones. It occurs in lemon yellow to medeira colors.
The importance of citrine is that the
tone is quite inexpensive, yet makes very impressive looking jewelry items when set with a
minimal amount of side diamonds as accent stones.
As with the amethyst, citrines should be
virtually free of inclusions with only a minimum amount of inclusions causing the stone to
be significantly less in price. And again, since citrine occurs in large, well formed
crystals it is fairly easy to cut with excellent proportions and fine products.
The important point about citrine is its
ability to withstand a great deal of wear without showing nicks and abrasions. Anyone
wishing to own a jewelry item that can be worn for virtually any occasion should consider
a citrine.
Although the darker, orange colors of
citrine, sometimes called Madeira citrine after the color of the wine, has generally been
the most valued color, in modern times, many people prefer the bright lemony shades which
mix better with pastel colors.
Citrine is generally more inexpensive
than amethyst and is also available in a wide range of calibrated sizes and shapes,
including very large sizes.
Most citrine is mined in Brazil. Supply
of citrine is good from the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, particularly from the
Serra mine, which is producing 300 kilos a month of hammered goods. The Ira’ mine
produces an additional 100 kilos a month of hammered goods.
Sometimes you will hear citrine referred
to as topaz quartz, which is incorrect. This name was used in the past in reference to the
color, which is sometimes similar to the color of topaz. Since topaz is a separate
mineral, this type of name can be confusing and should not be used. However, citrine is
considered an alternative to topaz as the birthstone for November
Ancient Legends of Citrine:
Considered the stone of lightheartedness, it is said to add cheerfulness and hope to an
unpleasant situation.
Ancient people felt this stone had
a cleansing aspect to it, a powerful sedative and relaxant to the body.
Because of this Citrine was thought to bridge the gaps between mental, emotional and
intuitive feelings, thus uniting the personality.
Later people carried Citrine as a
protective talisman. Citrine was carried as a protection against snake venom and
evil thoughts. It was considered an aid to digestion and was said to eliminate toxins from
the body. Those who wore it were blessed with a clear complexion, radiant skin
and a happy disposition.
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