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Citrine is a yellow version of quartz, also known as golden topaz or Spanish topaz. However, it is not a true topaz. It is found in much larger quantities and is much less expensive to produce and cut into gemstones. Heating other forms of quartz, such as amethyst, commercially produces much of today’s citrine. This stone is often denoted by its orange color with red undertones, rather than the yellow color that marks natural ones.
This stone is often associated with the browner topaz because they are both November birthstones. However, citrine stones are generally much cheaper and are often the birthstone of choice for those without a lot of money. The gem wears very well, with a hardness of around 7 on the Mohs scale. Still, the gems should be removed when doing any heavy lifting.
The main citrus veins exist in Brazil and Uruguay. Beginning with excavations in the 1930s, it quickly became a popular gemstone. Citrine can be found in many examples of jewelry pieces from the 1930s onwards, and was also a popular decorative choice on shirt buttons and men’s cufflinks.
Since the use of this stone was much less common than other gemstones in the past, fewer myths and traditions surround it. Today, it is associated with carelessness, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Citrus colors are also considered a natural cure for depression in some alternative medicine traditions.
You can certainly slow down an attack of blues to receive citrine gems. Its beautifully reflected gold hues make a stunning display on rings, bracelets, earrings or necklaces. The stone can also be purchased loose to be made into personalized jewelry.
Citrine is often measured in millimeters rather than carats. A stone with a diameter of 6.5 millimeters is approximately equivalent to a one carat stone. The price of one carat stones can vary drastically, from around $40 US Dollars (USD) to around $100 US Dollars. The most expensive stones are called natural citrines. There are other forms of quartz that are heated to produce a similar color.
The similarity of this stone’s appearance to topaz means that some jewelers may substitute it, without informing customers, for topaz. You should definitely check if you are buying real topaz or real citrine to pay the appropriate price.