Citrine is a common gemstone seen on the market, but did you know natural citrine is actually rare? I'll break it down for you below.
- Zodiac: Sagitarrius, Aries, Leo
The History and Origin of Citrine
Most likely, citrine's name is derived from the French word 'citron', meaning lemon. Throughout history, citrine has often been mistaken with topaz. Citrine would be called 'gold topaz', hence why these gemstones got mixed up sometimes.
This beautiful yellow variation of quartz has been cherished for centuries. Ancient Scottisch daggers and swords were decorated with citrine between 300 and 150 BC. It was added as a decorative touch, but citrine could've offered protection as well.
Crystal Formation
Citrine is a variety of quartz and comes in yellow to brownish-yellow. The main sources are Brazil, Madagascar and Zambia.
Natural Citrine
Natural citrine is formed when amethyst or smoky quartz heat up to high temperatures around 470°C. This will influence iron impurities and change the color to yellow or brownish-yellow.
Synthetic Citrine
Synthetic citrine goes through a similar process that imitates what nature does. Amethyst or smoky quartz, which are both varieties of clear quartz, are heated in a kiln at 470°C or higher. And ta-da: citrine is created. You could even make your own if you have access to a kiln. I have yet to try.🧑🔬
Natural vs. Heat Treated Citrine
There are similarities and differences worth mentioning.
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- Both natural and synthetic citrine is formed due to heat, though in nature it's a gradual process.
- Whether citrine is mined from the Earth or heat-treated in a lab, the molecular structure remains the same.
- The color of natural citrine is a range of brown and yellow hues, while synthetic citrine is more uniform and can be more saturated and artificial.
- For obvious reasons, natural citrine is likely to have imperfections, while synthetic citrine is usually clear.
- Because natural citrine is relatively rare, it's more valuable thus more expensive than synthetic citrine.
The Meaning and Benefits of Citrine
Citrine is often associated with joy, energy and prosperity. For citrine to be created, heat is needed, which can be a great metaphor: just as intense heat transforms quartz into a radiant gem, challenges and pressure in life can forge strength, growth, and brilliance in ourselves.
Citrine in Jewelry
Citrine gained popularity during the Art Deco era and was worn by celebrities of that period. American actress Joan Crawford commissioned a jewelry suite with 350 carats of natural citrine from Raymond Yard in 1940. This suite, which is a jewelry set of a necklace, brooch and bracelet, was sold for $250.000 in 2022.
Synthetic citrine has been commercially produced for over 75 years and is now widely available in many beautiful jewelry styles.
