 Citrine
is one of the most affordable gemstones, thanks to the durability
and availability of this golden quartz. Named from the French
name for lemon, "citron," many citrines have a juicy
lemon colour.
Citrine includes yellow to gold
to orange brown shades of transparent quartz. Sunny and affordable,
citrine can brighten almost any jewelry style, blending especially
well with the yellow gleam of polished gold.
In ancient times, citrine was
carried as a protection against snake venom and evil thoughts.
 Although
the darker, orange colors of citrine, sometimes called Madeira
citrine after the color of the wine, has generally been the
most valued color, in modern times, many people prefer the
bright lemony shades which mix better with pastel colors.
Citrine is generally more inexpensive than amethyst and is
also available in a wide range of calibrated sizes and shapes,
including very large sizes.
Most citrine is mined in Brazil.
Supply of citrine is good from the Brazilian state of Rio
Grande do Sul, particularly from the Serra mine, which is
producing 300 kilos a month of hammered goods. The Ira’ mine
produces an additional 100 kilos a month of hammered goods.
Sometimes you will hear citrine
referred to as topaz quartz, which is incorrect. This name
was used in the past in reference to the color, which is sometimes
similar to the color of topaz. Since topaz is a separate mineral,
this type of name can be confusing and should not be used.
However, citrine is considered an alternative to topaz as
the birthstone for November.
Since most citrine on the market
started its life as amethyst which was heated to turn its
color to gold, citrine jewelry, as well as amethyst jewelry,
should be kept away from prolonged exposure to strong light
or heat. With this precaution, citrine jewelry will last for
many generations.
|
