Citrine
Stone

Citrine

Colour
Yellow
Care profile
Moderate
About the stone

Citrine is the golden-yellow variety of quartz — surprisingly, the very same mineral as amethyst.

Natural citrine is fairly rare; most of what you see on the market is heated amethyst or smoky quartz, which changes its color from purple to golden.

Its color comes from tiny traces of iron in its structure.

Over time it has been called the “merchant’s stone” or the “stone of success” — tucked into cash boxes, wallets, or shop drawers to attract and keep wealth.

It truly shone in Art Deco jewelry and in bold cocktail pieces of the 1940s, a star of vintage Hollywood glamour.

Queen Victoria, enamored with Scottish style, helped popularize it in brooches and kilt pins.

Shades range from pale lemon-yellow to a warm, slightly orange “Madeira” gold.

Most specimens come from Brazil and Madagascar.

Associated with positive energy, joy, and optimism, citrine is one of November’s birthstones.

With a hardness of 7, it’s suited to everyday wear—just avoid excessive heat and harsh chemicals, which can affect its color.

Clean with a soft cloth. Its bright tone is beautifully showcased in yellow gold as well as in 925 sterling silver.

Citrine care

How to care for it.

Care profile
Moderate
Attention level
Cleaning
  • Warm water with soap or a gentle professional jewelry solution.
  • Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the stone is not clearly compatible (e.g., some amethysts or topazes may be affected).
  • Avoid steam cleaning unless specifically safe for that stone.
Exposure precautions
  • Remove jewelry before intense physical activities or entering chlorinated pools.
  • Avoid contact with strong chemicals (chlorine, ammonia).
  • Some stones may lose color with prolonged sun exposure; store them properly.
Storage
  • Store in soft pouches or separate compartments to prevent scratches.
  • If the metal oxidizes easily (like some silver alloys), consider anti-tarnish strips.
  • Avoid areas with high humidity (bathrooms, saunas).

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