Citrine is a golden variety of quartz composed of silicon dioxide, colored by trace amounts of iron that create its warm yellow to amber hues reminiscent of sunshine captured in crystal form. This radiant gemstone ranges from pale lemon yellow to deep honey amber, with the most prized specimens displaying rich, saturated color and excellent transparency. Most commercial citrine is actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz that transforms into golden yellow when heated, though natural citrine does occur and is distinguished by its more subtle, smoky inclusions and softer color tones.
Specifications:
- Color range: Pale lemon yellow to deep honey amber, golden yellow, and orange-brown with excellent color saturation
- Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
- Origin: Primarily Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, France, and Scotland; natural specimens rare and valuable
- Sizes: Available from small 4mm gems to large 50mm+ specimens; commonly found in all sizes for jewelry
- Shapes: Faceted gems, cabochons, beads, tumbled stones, points, clusters, and carved objects
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent with excellent clarity in high-quality specimens
- Luster: Vitreous when polished, creating brilliant reflective surfaces with warm golden light
- Treatments: Most commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst; natural citrine commands premium prices
