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Citrine Quartz: Here Are All the Characteristics of the Precious Stone with the Sun Inside

Physical Characteristics

Citrine quartz is one of the many varieties belonging to the mineral species quartz, belonging to the group of silicates, specifically a tectosilicate. From a chemical point of view, it is composed of silica (silicon dioxide), arranged in complex crystalline structures, and so are all its varieties, including chalcedony, jasper, and quartzite. Specifically, citrine quartz crystallizes in the trigonal system.

Its hardness is 7, its specific gravity is 2.66, and the refractive indices, which are constant and do not vary, are 1.553-1.544. For this reason, the birefringence is 0.009.

Natural Citrine Quartz Stone

Genesis of citrine quartz

Citrine quartz is generally found in the same areas as amethyst quartz, so much so that sometimes particular specimens of citrine mixed with amethyst are extracted, which are called ametrine or amethyst-citrine.

This gemstone can be found in intrusive igneous rocks called pegmatites, metamorphic rocks, and effusive igneous rocks. Often, it covers the inner walls of splendid geodes, which are nothing but cavities left by gases present in molten lava. During the cooling of the lava, they take on spherical shapes or elongated ones depending on the flow of magma. Geodes are often lined with minerals, including quartz.

Natural citrine quartz is a much rarer variety compared to amethyst or clear quartz, so much so that sometimes an inexperienced eye may confuse it with another gem, topaz. However, topaz can be distinguished from citrine quartz because of its lower refractive indices and because they crystallize in two completely different systems. Additionally, topaz is less resistant than citrine quartz because it has more cleavage planes.

The golden yellow color of citrine quartz

As we know, quartz is an allochromatic mineral, meaning it is colored by substances external to its chemical composition. In the case of citrine quartz, its color is imparted by iron, in the form of ferric oxide.

The dominant color in citrine quartz is yellow, with shades ranging from very light yellow to reddish or orangey yellow. Madeira citrine quartz is a rare variant of reddish-orange or reddish-brown color, reminiscent of the color of the Portuguese island's eponymous fortified wine!

Cutting style of citrine quartz

The most commonly used cutting style in citrine quartz is faceted, suitable for setting, which highlights the best reflections of light present in the most beautiful specimens, but in many cases, cabochon cuts also enhance this stone well.

Citrine quartz also lends itself well to be drilled and made suitable for threading, with various shapes like washer and sphere. However, we are describing a precious gemstone that is particularly appreciated even in irregular forms, which easily make all its unique characteristics visible. Among these, we can mention the stone or chips cut, i.e., small fractions of gemstone with a mixed shape that are drilled in the center and assembled into original threads.

In many cases, it is preferred to leave citrine quartz in its natural crystallized forms, especially if enclosed in geodes, from which splendid specimens are obtained, particularly appreciated by experts and collectors. There is indeed a rich market dedicated to raw exhibition specimens, which often translate into objects of furniture and design of great charm.

Ring with citrine quartz and colorless topaz outline

Price and value of citrine quartz

The value, as well as the price, of a citrine quartz stone depend on the evaluation of certain variables including quality, size, hue, purity, weight, and dimensions.

The last two are fairly easy to estimate, as it is easily understood by everyone that the larger and heavier a gemstone is, the higher its cost will be. Purity and color, on the other hand, need to be evaluated through a more careful and expert analysis. Generally, specimens with more intense and vivid hues are considered particularly interesting, but contrary to popular belief, not always a gem with a saturated color is considered pure and therefore free from internal characteristics.

The cut also falls among the evaluation parameters: a well-made and proportionate cut with harmonious shapes can create beautiful reflections of light within the gem, making it more attractive.

Jewelry with Citrine Quartz

Citrine quartz is a precious gemstone particularly loved by all for its incredible golden glows, so much so that a flame seems to burn inside its crystals. It is a gem that enchants whether it is skillfully faceted, shaped like a stone, or left in its rough state.

In our online catalog, we offer numerous proposals at truly advantageous prices! You will find jewelry with citrine quartz of various kinds with both simple and elaborate shapes, which always manage to embellish all looks, from the most refined to the most essential.

Therefore, we present authoritative necklaces or elegant pendants that illuminate and enrich every décolleté, to which you can also match splendid bracelets. With our precious and rich selection of rings, you can adorn your hands with an accessory that is nothing short of elegant.

For a special gift, do not forget to check both the wide range of earrings perfect for framing every face, and all those jewels that combine citrine quartz with other fabulous gemstones such as garnet, peridot, zircon, and amethyst quartz.

Finally, consider the possibility of purchasing a beautiful geode or extraordinary strands of citrine quartz gems with which to create fabulous jewelry. If you are not yet able to do so, follow the advice of our tutorials available on our Youtube channel, Lineagemtv!

Earring in silver with citrine quartz and colorless topaz

Cleaning and care of citrine quartz

The magnificent crystals of citrine quartz, while resilient, require proper care and attention to maintain their beauty and luster over time, especially when set in exquisite jewelry.

We suggest using a cloth dampened with a solution of water and neutral, colorless, and unscented soap, gently wiping the gemstone. Repeat the same procedure with a clean cloth and allow it to dry.

For a more thorough cleaning or if you have any doubts, we recommend consulting experts like us to avoid irreversibly damaging the gemstone.

Curiosities and origin of citrine quartz

Quartz is ubiquitous on Earth, but colored varieties like citrine quartz are rare. The main sources of citrine quartz, which offer fantastic specimens, are found on the Isle of Arran in Scotland and near the Ural Mountains in Russia. Other deposits are located in South America, mainly in Brazil, then in Africa (Congo, Namibia, Madagascar), India, the United States, and even in France and Spain.

In the field of crystal therapy, citrine quartz is particularly esteemed because, being associated with the element of fire, it is thought to be an endless source of vitality and energy.

It is said to strengthen willpower and imagination, also enhancing creativity. Many believe it absorbs negative energy as well as negative thoughts and all those feelings that lead to sadness.