Citrine

Citrine Stone Meaning and History

Citrine, the transparent yellow to brownish-orange variety of quartz, has adorned jewelry for millennia, dating back to ancient times. Its popularity spans cultures, with the ancient Greeks crafting rock crystal ornaments resembling glistening permafrost, and Roman pontiffs donning rings adorned with massive purple amethysts, often accompanied by citrine. The gemstone has also been documented in Roman jewelry and enjoyed particular favor in colorful Scottish jewelry during the Victorian era. The name "citrine," believed to stem from the French word for "lemon" (citron), signifies its vibrant hue, making it a fitting gift for the thirteenth wedding anniversary.

In modern times, the majority of citrine available in the market is produced through the heat treatment of amethyst. Its widespread availability in various sizes makes citrine one of the most sought-after and affordable yellow gemstones, appealing to a wide range of consumers.

Where is Citrine found?

The primary sources for citrine include Bolivia, Spain, Madagascar, Mexico, and Uruguay, while Brazil predominantly produces citrine through the heat treatment of amethyst. Deep within Bolivia's Anahí mine, nestled in the world's largest freshwater wetland, lies a significant natural source of unheated citrine. The mine's breathtaking surroundings feature fields of wildflowers, vibrant birds, butterflies, and diverse wildlife, adding to its allure. The mine's history is as captivating as its setting, discovered by a Spanish conquistador in the 1600s and later given as a dowry upon his marriage to Anahí, a princess from the Ayoreos tribe of Paraguay. Lost for three centuries, the mine was rediscovered in the 1960s.

One of the remarkable features of the Anahí mine is its production of a unique combination of amethyst and citrine within the same crystal, known as ametrine. Citrine stones from the Anahí mine exhibit hues ranging from orange-yellow to brownish or greenish yellow, offering a distinct and sought-after gemstone option.

Citrine Stone Care and Cleaning

With a rating of 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness and good toughness, citrine is typically durable enough for everyday wear and care. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water. While cleaning citrine in an ultrasonic machine is generally acceptable, steam cleaning poses a risk as the high heat could potentially cause the stone to crack.