Citrine is yellow to orange quartz, named after the French word for lemon, citron. Together with topaz it is the birthstone for November, and it is the gem for a 13th wedding anniversary. In Chinese crystal shops it is sold as a stone of wealth.
Where the yellow comes from
A trace of iron gives citrine its color, from pale lemon to honey and reddish orange. Natural citrine is rare. Most citrine sold today began as amethyst, mined mostly in Brazil, and turned golden when it was heated. Both kinds are quartz and wear the same way.
Citrine in history
For centuries citrine was mistaken for topaz and sold under names such as "gold topaz" and "Madeira topaz," so people credited it with topaz's powers, including calming a hot temper. Citrine has been found in Roman jewelry, and it was a favorite in the colorful Scottish jewelry of the Victorian era.
A stone of wealth
Modern crystal books call citrine the merchant's stone, a stone of abundance and good cheer, and some shopkeepers keep a piece by the till. In China yellow is the color of the earth element in the Five Elements, and it was once the color reserved for the emperor. Citrine bracelets often carry a Pixiu charm, the guardian of wealth, and citrine money trees are set on desks and counters.
Wearing and caring for citrine
Citrine pairs well with clear quartz and amethyst, its close cousin. At 7 on the Mohs scale it stands up to daily wear. Clean it with warm, soapy water and dry it with a soft cloth. Keep it away from steam cleaners and high heat, which can crack the stone.
Citrine at Buddha.store
- Citrine Pixiu Wealth Bracelet
- Five Elements Wealth Bracelet with Clear Quartz and Citrine
- Natural Citrine White Jade Protection Charm Bracelet
- Citrine Happiness Prosperity Ring
- Citrine Fortune Bracelet with Pixiu and Five Elements
- Citrine Money Tree Gemstone Ornament
See every piece in our Citrine collection.
