Citrine's Refreshing Brilliance

This unique gemstone is commonly confused withexpensive it is.
topaz and erroneously referred to as gold topaz.History and Healing
The truth is they are completely different and theAffordability as well as the enticing color may
only thing they share is a similar yellow hue.have played a role in its popularity during the 40s.
What exactly is citrine then?These were tough times and a little bit of beauty
While natural stones are rare, they do exist whenwent a long way. Citrine jewelry was very
iron mixes in to the silicon dioxide composition.popular either alone in clustered with other colored
However, a majority of the market gradegemstones like peridot. Brooches and rings were
gemstones began their lives as amethyst orparticularly common and are now retro-trendy.
smoky quartz. In the mid-1700s, it wasAs for mystical or healing properties, it is believed
discovered that heating these stones produced athat the stone will protect the wearer from
yellow color and depending on the level of heat,negativity. It is also supposed to bring about
different shades were created.prosperity and hope. As for health, it aids in
The origins of the gemstonecorrecting stomach problems as well as circulatory
The biggest supply of natural stone comes fromissues. An interesting benefit a citrine pendant is
Brazil. But Spain, Scotland, Argentina, Namibia andsupposed to provide is protection against snake
Myanmar also have natural deposits. Sincevenom.
amethyst and smoky quartz are a source forCaring for citrine gemstones
citrine jewelry, anywhere these are mined areOn the Mohs scale of hardness, these stones, like
also a supply source.all quartz, rank a 7. This means they are quite
Stone qualitydurable and are great for every day wear.
The most valuable color is burnt-orange and theCleaning them is also fairly simply. Soak them in
most popular is a slightly lighter yellow with a hintwarm water with a gentle cleaner and scrub with
of orange. It should be easy to find a citrinea toothbrush. Because extreme temperatures
necklace free of inclusions. Typically, only the clearcause color changes, avoid exposure to high heat.
stones are cut into facets. If there are inclusions,Do not clean in an ultrasonic machine or use a
they are used in different cuts that reduce theirsteamer. These use hot water and agitation that
visibility.could damage the stone.
Facets should be cut to maximize the sunnyThis is a versatile gemstone that looks great in
brilliance of the stone. If the center appears hazyany jewelry setting. There are very few
or dull, the light is passing through instead ofgemstones that represent the color yellow and
reflected off the cuts and back to you. Stones ofthis one offers a variety of hues to appeal to all
a large size are also easy to come by. Of course,tastes. Brighten up your fall or summer wardrobe
like any stone, the larger the carat the morewith a brilliant yellow citrine bracelet or earrings.