Jewel of the month: Citrine
Jewel of the month: Citrine
A Burst of Sunshine
This transparent sunshine-hued gemstone derives its name from the French word citron, meaning lemon. It is available in a variety of hues ranging from pale yellow to vivid orange, and even an alluring reddish-brown shade. Associated with the warmth and energy of the sun, citrine is known as the healing quartz. Since ancient times, the gemstone is believed to help with pain reduction, emotional well-being, and inner calm.
Citrine was originally discovered in 3300 BC in Palestinian tin and bronze mines. Today’s sunny lemon citrine either comes from Brazil, France, or the Ural Mountains of Russia. Brazilian citrine is typically heat-treated amethyst which turns a deep yellow at 878 degrees.
Like all quartz gems, citrine is readily available and affordable, even in brilliant large sized stones. With a hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, it is a durable stone and practical for everyday wear. Most citrine are considered eye clean, meaning they lack visible inclusions and have vitreous luster when well cut and polished. Its availability, affordability, and durability make citrine an ideal budget-friendly choice. It’s no wonder citrine is the most popular yellow gemstone in today’s market.
Although royals and celebrities can afford any gemstone on the market, many are self-professed citrine admirers. A gift from Prince William, pear-shaped citrine drops suspended from yellow gold hoops are a favorite in Kate Middleton’s jewelry box. Jennifer Lopez often wears a stunning Jorge Adeler cleaved citrine ring with diamond accents. David Yurman pebble earrings with citrine and cognac diamonds are Robin Roberts go-to everyday earrings. And Adele considers citrine her talisman for good fortune and focus, and she never performs on stage without it.
Sunny and affordable, citrine brightens any jewelry box. Stop by the Carats Fine Jewelry & Watches showroom to discover why we love this sunshine-colored stone so much. We’ll show you how to get that bling factor at a fraction of the price of other stones.